The Commander of the Mining Marshals, Assistant Commandant of Corps (ACC) John Onoja Attah, has reaffirmed the steadfast resolve of the special unit to stamp out illegal mining activities across Nigeria. Speaking during a media parley in Abuja, ACC Attah stated that the Mining Marshals remain “resolute and impressionable” in their mission to sanitize the nation’s solid minerals sector and enforce mining regulations with precision and professionalism.
He attributed the success recorded so far to the strong political will of the Federal Government, particularly under the guidance of the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Dele Alake, whose leadership, he said, has “breathed fresh momentum into the campaign against illegal mining.”
Onoja added that the achievements of the Mining Marshals are also rooted in the well-laid philosophical and operational framework established by the Commandant General of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Dr. Abubakar Ahmed Audi, mni. According to him, the Commandant General’s strategic direction has empowered the marshals to function effectively across various terrains and maintain operational discipline in line with national security objectives.
“Our operations are yielding visible results. We are dismantling criminal networks, restoring government control over mining assets, and bringing sanity to previously lawless terrains. This wouldn’t be possible without the resolute support and reformist vision of Dr. Dele Alake and the foundational guidance of CG Audi,” Attah said.
Since their deployment, the Mining Marshals, operating under the NSCDC, have carried out high-impact operations across several states in Nigeria. These operations have led to the arrest of over 300 illegal miners and their financiers, seizure and forfeiture of illegal mining equipment, and disruption of illicit gold smuggling channels and other mineral theft networks. They have also played a key role in protecting licensed miners and communities from harassment and economic sabotage.
In addition, collaborative efforts with state governments have resulted in improved monitoring, intelligence gathering, and revalidation of mining licenses, thereby boosting investor confidence.
Beyond enforcement, the activities of the Mining Marshals are already generating positive ripple effects. Local communities once plagued by insecurity and environmental degradation caused by unregulated mining are now witnessing renewed peace and cleaner environments. Artisanal miners are being sensitized and re-integrated into legal frameworks, while the government’s revenue from solid minerals is beginning to reflect steady growth.
“Our impact is not just about arrests; it’s about restoring hope. Legitimate mining operators now feel protected, and communities are no longer at the mercy of violent syndicates,” ACC Attah added.
Addressing recent allegations of misconduct by marshals during operations in Nasarawa State, ACC Attah described the reports as “desperate fabrications by disgruntled elements.” He emphasized that all operations are conducted professionally and in strict adherence to legal protocols.
“These feeble rants are the last cries of criminal and mischievous individuals whose illicit operations have been disrupted. We have zero tolerance for excesses, and any officer found wanting will be dealt with in accordance with NSCDC’s disciplinary procedures. But we will not be distracted,” he said.
Looking ahead, ACC Attah expressed optimism about the future of Nigeria’s mining industry under the ongoing reforms of the Federal Government. He called on citizens, traditional institutions, and the media to support the national agenda of turning mining into a cornerstone of economic diversification.
“We are building a legacy. The Mining Marshals are here to stay. With continued support from the government, communities, and patriotic stakeholders, Nigeria will soon become a global reference point for regulated, sustainable, and inclusive mineral resource development,” he concluded.