Government Deploys Eight Armed Trucks to Intensify Illegal Mining Crackdown

The federal government has launched eight fully operational gun trucks for the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals, aiming to boost the fight against illegal mining and safeguard Nigeria’s solid mineral resources.

The vehicles were presented together with a commemorative book titled “The Guardians of Nigeria’s Solid Minerals: Two Years of Commitment and Service by the Mining Marshals,” which documents the unit’s accomplishments over the past two years.

During the inauguration, Minister of Solid Minerals Dele Alake assured the Mining Marshals of ongoing government backing, promising that additional technology and armored vehicles would be supplied once budgetary allocations are confirmed.

Alake praised the specialized NSCDC unit, noting that the Mining Marshals have arrested more than 300 illegal miners, prosecuted over 150 suspects, and secured several convictions involving both Nigerian and foreign offenders since their establishment two years ago.

According to the minister, the unit has been vital in protecting the country’s mineral wealth and supporting economic diversification through increased revenue from the solid minerals sector.

He also warned that those who attempt to undermine government efforts against illegal mining will face the full force of the law, labeling them as saboteurs acting against national interests.

Representing the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Major General Abdulmalik Jibrin praised the collaboration between the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, noting that it has strengthened the protection of Nigeria’s mineral assets. He pledged continued support through enhanced training, funding, and operational capacity for the Mining Marshals.

In his remarks, Commandant General of the NSCDC Ahmed Audi, represented by Deputy Commandant General Zakari Ibrahim Ningi, described the ministry’s support as unprecedented.

He reaffirmed the Corps’ commitment to maintaining its partnership with the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and assured that the newly commissioned gun trucks would be deployed effectively in ongoing operations.

The National Commander of the Mining Marshals, John Attah Onoja, expressed gratitude to both ministries for the logistical support, saying it would significantly improve the unit’s operational efficiency.