Nigeria's government has handed over eight operational gun trucks to the NSCDC Mining Marshals unit. The move aims to strengthen operations against illegal mining nationwide.
Dele Alake, the Solid Minerals Development minister, announced the deployment on Thursday. He promised more advanced equipment and armoured vehicles once budget approvals come through.
Alake spoke alongside Major General Abdulmalik Jibrin, representing the Interior Ministry. He praised the Mining Marshals for their impressive performance record.
In just two years, the unit has arrested over 300 illegal miners. They've also prosecuted more than 150 suspects and secured multiple convictions involving Nigerians and foreigners alike.
According to Alake, these operations have boosted non-oil revenue significantly. The crackdown helps diversify Nigeria's economy away from oil dependence.
He attacked illegal miners and their supporters as "saboteurs" and "enemies of the state." Alake vowed they would face the full force of the law.
Interior Minister Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, represented by Jibrin, commended the minerals ministry. He said collaboration has protected the nation's mineral resources effectively.
Tunji-Ojo's ministry pledged continued support for the Mining Marshals. He promised better training, increased funding, and improved combat capabilities going forward.
NSCDC Commandant General Ahmed Abubakar Audi called the intervention revolutionary and groundbreaking. His deputy, DCG Zakari Ibrahim Ningi, delivered the remarks on his behalf.
Audi described illegal mining as a serious threat to national progress. He committed the NSCDC to maintaining strong coordination with the minerals ministry.
The Commandant General stressed the new trucks would serve their intended purpose only. He assured that the agency remains focused on combating the menace.
