The Federal Government has reaffirmed its support for the Mining Marshals of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, praising their role in combating illegal mining. Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, made the declaration on Wednesday during the commissioning of eight newly acquired gun trucks at the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja. He described the marshals' efforts as vital to the government's plan to clean up the solid minerals sector and boost its contribution to national economic growth. Alake attributed resistance to the marshals' operations to individuals who benefit from illegal mining and stand to lose from enforcement actions. He accused some actors of launching campaigns of blackmail and misinformation to discredit the unit. "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," Alake said. He warned that anyone obstructing the marshals—civilian or military—would be treated as an economic saboteur. The minister stated the government would continue providing logistical and institutional support to the unit. The new gun trucks are intended to improve rapid response, dismantle illegal mining sites and secure key mineral zones. Alake linked the crackdown to President Bola Tinubu's agenda to make solid minerals a pillar of economic diversification. He urged host communities, traditional leaders and security agencies to support the marshals' mandate. Those aiding illegal mining, he said, would be investigated and prosecuted.
Dr. Dele Alake defends the Mining Marshals while naming no specific case of blackmail or attack against them, leaving the threat level unverified. The government's promise of full backing contrasts with the absence of data on past attacks or prosecutions of saboteurs. If illegal miners are indeed being dismantled, the public has seen no site closures or arrests announced. The minister's strong language may signal resolve, but without evidence of enforcement, it risks sounding performative.
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