The Mining Marshals of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have issued a stern warning to mining operators across the nation: secure valid licences and strictly adhere to environmental safety regulations or face immediate enforcement action.
The directive comes amid intensified nationwide raid operations aimed at curbing illegal mining, plugging federal revenue leakages, and safeguarding mineral resources.
Speaking via a statement issued on Tuesday, the Commander of the Mining Marshals, ACC Attah John Onoja, highlighted recent enforcement operations—including a joint raid in Nasarawa State conducted alongside the Federal Mines Officer and state regulatory teams.
Onoja warned that clampdown activities will continue across all geopolitical zones without advance notice:
”All mining operators must possess valid licences and fulfil the requisite regulatory and operational conditions before commencing mining activities,” Onoja stated. “Adherence to these requirements is critical to preventing avoidable fatalities, reducing incidents of mine collapse and other operational hazards, and protecting both workers and host communities.”
NSCDC is expected to continue the raids across mining locations nationwide to catch illegal operators off guard and instil needed discipline in the sector.
The NSCDC reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigeria’s natural wealth from illegal exploitation, urging all commercial stakeholders to prioritize lawful, transparent, and responsible mining practices.
