Mining Marshals Issue Licence Compliance Warning to Operators Nationwide
The Mining Marshals of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have issued a firm directive to mining operators across the country: obtain valid licences and comply fully with safety regulations or face enforcement action. The warning comes amid intensified enforcement operations at mining sites nationwide, aimed at curbing illegal mining, protecting the country’s mineral resources and ensuring strict adherence to mining laws.
The Commander of the Mining Marshals, ACC Attah John Onoja, delivered the warning in a statement released on Tuesday, while providing an update on the ongoing enforcement drive, including a recent exercise carried out in Nasarawa State. According to Onoja, the Nasarawa operation was conducted in collaboration with the Federal Mines Officer and the team responsible for mining regulation in the state.
Enforcement Operations to Continue Without Fixed Sequence
Onoja made clear that the enforcement activities will continue across the country without a predetermined sequence, stressing that operators must conduct their activities strictly within the confines of the law. He emphasised that all mining operators must possess valid licences and fulfil the requisite regulatory and operational conditions before commencing mining activities.
The commander also called for regular monitoring and inspection of mining sites to ensure compliance with established safety standards. He explained that 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.
He further warned that violations of applicable mining laws and regulations would attract appropriate enforcement action, urging stakeholders to prioritise lawful and responsible mining practices.
Strategic Commitment to Curbing Illegal Mining
According to Onoja, the sustained enforcement drive forms part of the strategic commitment of the NSCDC Commandant-General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, to supporting the policy objectives of the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake. Those objectives include curbing illegal mining, plugging revenue leakages, promoting safe mining practices and strengthening investor confidence in the solid minerals sector.
The Mining Marshals Commander reaffirmed the commitment of the marshals to protecting Nigeria’s mineral resources, strengthening regulatory compliance and promoting a safer, more transparent and investment-friendly mining industry.
Key Takeaways for Mining Operators
The message from the Mining Marshals is unambiguous: compliance is not optional. Operators are expected to secure valid licences, meet all regulatory and operational conditions before starting work, and maintain safety standards that protect workers and host communities alike. With enforcement operations set to continue nationwide, mining stakeholders are advised to prioritise lawful and responsible practices to avoid enforcement action.
The intensified monitoring and inspection regime signals a renewed push to sanitise the mining sector, safeguard Nigeria’s mineral wealth and create an environment that attracts genuine investment while deterring illegal operators.
