The Commander of the Mining Marshals, Assistant Commandant of Corps (ACC) John Onoja Attah, has reiterated the unwavering commitment of the special unit to eradicating illegal mining activities across Nigeria.
Speaking during a media parley in Abuja, ACC Attah declared that the Marshals remained “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 remarkable progress of the Marshals to the political will of the Federal Government and the visionary leadership of the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Dele Alake, whose reforms have “breathed fresh momentum into the campaign against illegal mining.”
He also commended the Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Dr. Abubakar Ahmed Audi, for establishing a robust philosophical and operational framework that continue to guide the unit. According to him, CG Audi’s strategic direction has enabled the Marshals to operate effectively across diverse terrains while maintaining strict operational discipline.
“Our operations are yielding visible results. We are dismantling criminal networks, restoring government control over mining assets, and bringing sanity to previously lawless terrains,” Attah said. “This wouldn’t be possible without the resolute support and reformist vision of Dr. Dele Alake and the foundational guidance of CG Audi.”
Since their deployment, the Mining Marshals, operating under the NSCDC, have conducted high-impact operations in several states. These have led to the arrest of over 300 illegal miners and their financiers, seizure and forfeiture of illicit mining equipment, and disruption of gold smuggling and mineral theft networks. The Marshals have also played a crucial role in protecting licensed miners and communities from harassment and economic sabotage.
Collaborations with state governments have further strengthened monitoring efforts, improved intelligence gathering, and supported the revalidation of mining licenses, contributing to enhanced investor confidence in the sector.
Beyond enforcement, the Marshals’ activities are generating broader socio-economic impact. Communities once plagued by insecurity and environmental degradation from unregulated mining are now experiencing renewed peace and cleaner environments. Artisanal miners are being sensitized and integrated into legal frameworks, while government revenue from solid minerals continue to show signs of 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,” Attah added.
Reacting to recent allegations of misconduct by some operatives in Nasarawa State, Attah dismissed the reports as “desperate fabrications by disgruntled elements,” asserted that all operations are conducted within legal bounds.
“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 accordingly. But we will not be distracted,” he emphasized.
Looking ahead, ACC Attah expressed optimism about the future of Nigeria’s mining industry under ongoing federal reforms. He urged citizens, traditional institutions, and the media to support the national agenda of transforming mining into a key pillar 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.
