FG unveils additional 350 operatives to boost mining marshals

The Federal Government has unveiled an additional 350 operatives to enhance mining marshals in the country.

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, who made this known, declared that the deployment of the additional operatives to the mining marshals underscores the federal government’s commitment to reforming the mining sector.

Speaking at the Passing Out Parade for the new operatives at the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) headquarters on Friday, June 14, 2024, Alake, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr Mary Ogbe, lauded his interior counterpart, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and the NSCDC for its collaboration in combating illegal mining.

Highlighting the successes recorded by the mining marshals, the minister noted that their efforts have significantly reduced illegal mineral haulage and the activities of unlicensed operators nationwide.

Alake said: “Today’s Passing Out Parade of the second batch will further increase our numbers, ensuring wider coverage and enhancing the operational effectiveness of the squad.

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“As we integrate and improve collaboration between mining marshals and Federal Mines Officers (FMO) across the country, we aim to intensify sector sanitisation and boost investor confidence, leading to increased investments and development in the mining industry.”

In his remarks, NSCDC Commandant-General Dr Abubakar Audi said the new operatives underwent an intensive eight-week training programme, preparing them to strengthen the mining marshals’ operations and intensify efforts against illegal miners nationwide.

On his part, Tunji-Ojo, stressed the mining marshals are a product of successful collaboration between the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and the Ministry of Interior.

He highlighted the need for continued training and deployment to ensure comprehensive coverage of the country’s vast mining areas and to maximise the benefits derived from solid minerals.

The minister stated: “The progress made so far exemplifies effective collaboration.

“With this second batch, we have more personnel on the ground, but we must continue training and deploying to protect our mining areas and ensure our nation reaps the full benefits of its solid minerals, for economic development.”

The Star