Pix: The Helmsman of the NSCDC Special Mining Marshals, ACC John Attah Onoja

By Samuel Ike, Abuja

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has highlighted significant progress in promoting lawful mining activities and protecting Nigeria’s solid minerals sector through the operations of its Mining Marshals.

Speaking at the Stakeholders’ Workshop on Extractive Industries in Abuja, the Commander of the Mining Marshals, Assistant Commandant of Corps (ACC) Attah John Onoja, represented the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR. He stated that the specialised unit has recorded remarkable achievements since its establishment in 2024 as part of efforts to curb illegal mining and strengthen regulatory compliance across the country.

According to Onoja, the Mining Marshals have conducted numerous enforcement operations nationwide, resulting in the arrest of 671 suspects linked to illegal mining activities. He disclosed that 397 cases have been filed before the Federal High Court, with several already concluded through the judicial process, demonstrating the government’s commitment to enforcing mining laws and protecting legitimate operators.

He further explained that the unit has successfully reclaimed several mining sites from illegal operators and restored them to licensed title holders. The Mining Marshals have also worked closely with regulatory agencies, host communities and industry stakeholders to improve compliance with mining regulations and enhance governance within the sector.

Onoja noted that data from the Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF) showed a significant increase in revenue generation from the mining sector, rising from approximately ₦6 billion in 2023 to over ₦70 billion as of June 2026. He attributed the growth to ongoing reforms, strengthened enforcement measures, improved regulatory compliance and enhanced collaboration among key stakeholders.

The Mining Marshals Commander commended the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Nigerian Armed Forces and other strategic partners for their unwavering support. He also praised the leadership of the NSCDC Commandant General, Professor Audi, describing his strategic vision, institutional backing and commitment to capacity building as critical factors behind the successes recorded by the unit.

Also speaking at the workshop, the Chairman of the Ad-hoc Committee on Mineral Exploitation, Security and Anti-Money Laundering, Hon. Sani Abdulraheem, stressed the importance of stronger collaboration among security agencies, regulatory bodies, mining operators and host communities. He stated that the committee’s recommendations would focus on strengthening the regulatory framework, improving oversight mechanisms and promoting responsible management of Nigeria’s mineral resources.

Other stakeholders at the event underscored the need for increased local mineral processing, improved traceability systems, enhanced transparency and accountability, as well as deeper public-private sector collaboration to attract sustainable investments and drive long-term growth in the mining industry.

While acknowledging operational challenges, including logistics, manpower and technological requirements, Onoja reaffirmed the NSCDC’s commitment to supporting a well-regulated and secure mining sector capable of contributing significantly to national economic growth, job creation and the sustainable development of Nigeria’s vast mineral resources.