NSCDC arrests 671 suspected illegal miners

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) announced a significant crackdown on illegal mining, with its specialized Mining Marshals arresting 671 suspects nationwide. Commander Attah Onoja reported that 397 of these individuals have already been arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

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We have arrested no fewer than 671 suspected illegal miners, while 397 have already been charged before the Federal High Court.

The NSCDC's enforcement campaign has also involved dismantling illegal mining sites, shutting down unlawful operations, and confiscating equipment. Onoja stated that several convictions have been secured, contributing to improved compliance with mining regulations and a substantial increase in government revenue from the solid minerals sector.

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Revenue increased from about ₦6bn in 2023 to over ₦70bn by June 2026.

According to data from the Solid Minerals Development Fund, revenue from the sector reportedly surged by 337 percent between 2023 and June 2026, rising from approximately ₦6 billion to over ₦70 billion. Onoja attributed these achievements to the professionalism of the Mining Marshals, strong inter-agency collaboration, and sustained government support, commending the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, for driving reforms.

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We have also secured several convictions as part of the ongoing enforcement against illegal mining.

However, the unit faces considerable challenges, including inadequate logistics, a shortage of personnel and weapons, judicial delays, interference from vested interests, and poor community cooperation. Onoja called for increased budgetary allocation, the deployment of surveillance technology, and the establishment of a national mining intelligence situation room to enhance their operations.

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This reflects the impact of the Federal Government’s reforms and strengthened enforcement in the mining sector.