FG backs Mining Marshals, warns illegal miners

Nigeria's Federal Government has thrown its full support behind the Mining Marshals, a specialized unit tasked with curbing illegal mining activities. Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, lauded the officers for their dedication and sacrifices in sanitizing the sector.

During the inauguration of eight new gun trucks for the marshals in Abuja, Alake emphasized their crucial role in maximizing the solid minerals sector's contribution to the national economy. He issued a stern warning to individuals and groups attempting to undermine the marshals' operations, labeling them economic saboteurs.

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Anyone, whether a uniformed personnel or a civilian, who seeks to frustrate the noble work of these Mining Marshals is an economic saboteur and will be treated as such. That I can promise you.

Alake noted that opposition to the marshals often stems from those who profit from illegal mining, which deprives the nation of revenue and harms legitimate operators. He reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu's commitment to repositioning the sector as a key economic driver and eliminating illegal mining.

The government plans to continue providing resources and institutional backing to enhance the marshals' operational capacity. Alake urged continued support from stakeholders, communities, and security agencies to foster order, transparency, and accountability in the sector.

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The Mining Marshals have recorded significant successes in curbing illegal mining operations and protecting the nation’s mineral resources. It is therefore not surprising that those who have profited from illegality are uncomfortable with their achievements and are resorting to campaigns of blackmail and misinformation.