The federal government has deployed eight operational gun trucks to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals, marking a decisive escalation in the battle to protect the country’s solid mineral wealth from illegal exploiters.
The armored vehicles were unveiled at a ceremony that also launched a commemorative publication, “The Guardians of Nigeria’s Solid Minerals: Two Years of Commitment and Service by the Mining Marshals,” a detailed account of the unit’s two-year campaign against mineral theft.
Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, stood before the Mining Marshals and delivered a clear message: the government is committed to equipping them with cutting-edge technology and more armored vehicles, pending budget approvals. He praised the unit’s relentless pursuit of justice, revealing they have arrested over 300 illegal miners, prosecuted more than 150 suspects, and secured convictions against both Nigerian and foreign offenders since their formation two years ago.
Alake did not mince words, warning that those who attempt to sabotage the government’s efforts are enemies of national progress and will face the full force of the law. He stressed that the Mining Marshals are pivotal in safeguarding mineral assets and driving economic diversification through increased revenue from the solid minerals sector.
Major General Abdulmalik Jibrin, representing the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, hailed the strengthened collaboration between his ministry and the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development. He vowed continued support through enhanced training, funding, and operational capacity for the Marshals.
NSCDC Commandant General Ahmed Audi, represented by Deputy Commandant General Zakari Ibrahim Ningi, described the ministry’s support as unprecedented. He assured that the newly commissioned gun trucks will be thrust into ongoing operations with full force.
National Commander of the Mining Marshals, John Attah Onoja, expressed gratitude for the logistics boost, stating it will dramatically improve the unit’s operational efficiency in the field.
