The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has launched a strategic crackdown on illegal mining activities with the deployment of specially trained Mining Marshals across seven operational zones nationwide.
In a statement, National Public Relations Officer NSCDC Headquarters, Abuja CSC Babawale Afolabi said the initiative, unveiled at the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja, is part of the Corps’ broader efforts to reinforce enforcement within the solid minerals sector and enhance its presence in mining hotspots. To support the deployment, ten rugged operational vehicles have also been commissioned to facilitate mobility, surveillance, and intelligence-driven patrols in remote terrains.
Commandant General of the NSCDC, Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR, described the move as a major operational reform aimed at decentralizing enforcement and increasing the Corps’ capacity to deter economic sabotage in the mining industry.
“With the deployment of Mining Marshals to all seven zones, we are scaling up our capacity to confront illegal mining operations head-on. These officers have been equipped and trained to engage professionally and lawfully in protecting our solid mineral assets,” Audi stated.
He emphasized that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s economic diversification drive and the Corps’ mandate to safeguard national assets and critical infrastructure.
The NSCDC also called on mining stakeholders — including host communities, licensed operators, and regulatory bodies — to collaborate with the Mining Marshals and report any suspicious activity to the nearest NSCDC office.
The Corps reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing lawful mining practices, preserving the environment, and protecting Nigeria’s mineral resources from exploitation.
