The Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has issued a clarion call for a multi-sectoral approach in the battle against illegal mining, emphasizing that security forces alone cannot eradicate the menace threatening Nigeria’s mineral wealth.
Speaking at the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja, Dr. Audi highlighted the limitations of conventional enforcement strategies and stressed the need for collaborative efforts involving government agencies, local communities, and civil society organizations.
“Illegal mining is not just a security issue—it’s an economic, environmental, and social crisis. While our Mining Marshals have made significant strides, the fight cannot be won by boots on the ground alone,” Dr. Audi stated.
He praised the recent deployment of over 2,500 specially trained Mining Marshals across Nigeria’s 36 states and the FCT, noting their success in shutting down illegal sites and dismantling syndicates. However, he warned that without community engagement, regulatory reform, and public awareness, the gains could be short-lived.
The NSCDC DG also commended the Ministry of Solid Minerals for its support and the establishment of the Inter-Ministerial Committee tasked with protecting Nigeria’s natural resources. He urged stakeholders to intensify efforts in sensitizing artisanal miners, promoting legal mining practices, and ensuring transparency in mineral resource management.
“We must move beyond reactive enforcement to proactive governance. That means empowering communities, strengthening legal frameworks, and investing in technology to monitor and protect our mining zones,” he added.
Dr. Audi reaffirmed NSCDC’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s mineral assets and called on all Nigerians to support the campaign against illegal mining, which he described as “economic sabotage.”