Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, has unveiled initiatives to bolster security in the mining industry by increasing the number of Mining Marshal Corps personnel.
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, Alake outlined plans to raise the current number from 60 to 100 in each state, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The move aims to fortify the mining operating environment, making it more conducive for Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) and bolstering the nation’s economic profile.
The Mining Marshal Corps, initially established on March 21, comprises 2,220 personnel drawn from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), specially trained to combat illegal mining activities.
Alake emphasized the critical role of ensuring a secure environment for prospective investors, equipment, and personnel in attracting investments to the mining sector.
He underscored the prevalence of insecurity in mining sites nationwide, prompting the establishment of an inter-ministerial committee by President Bola Tinubu to develop a blueprint for safeguarding Nigeria’s natural resources.
While the committee continues its deliberations, the expansion of the Mining Marshal Corps serves as an interim measure to address the urgency of curbing illegal activities in the sector. Alake highlighted the effectiveness of the initiative, with numerous suspects arrested and prosecuted for illegal operations.
The minister’s proactive approach has received widespread acclaim, with states increasingly requesting the deployment of mining marshals to areas identified as hotspots for illegal mining.
This expansion aligns with the government’s commitment to sanitizing the mining sector and ensuring sustainable growth and development.