By Glory Mfoniso
ABUJA- Nigeria’s new Mining Marshals say they have plugged massive revenue leaks in the solid minerals sector, driving collections from a paltry ₦6 billion to over ₦38 billion in just one year.
Commander of the unit, ACC Attah Onoja, told journalists at a Media Parley organised by the NUJ FCT Council on Tuesday that the revenue surge is proof that government’s renewed push against illegal mining is paying off.
“Illegal mining has cost Nigeria billions, ruined farmlands and destabilised communities. That era of unchecked plunder is over. Nigeria’s mineral wealth belongs to everyone, not a few,” Onoja said.
ACC Attah Onoja, said the Mining Marshals were established under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration in line with the vision of the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, to safeguard the nation’s mineral wealth.
He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s resolve to stamp out illegal mining, describing it as a fight for Nigeria’s economic security, environment, and future.
“Illegal mining has cost Nigeria billions in lost revenue, destroyed farmlands, and destabilised communities. With the Mining Marshals, the era of unchecked plunder is over. Nigeria’s mineral wealth belongs to all Nigerians, not a few,” he declared.
Onoja stressed that the Marshals were not just another task force but a dedicated enforcement arm of the NSCDC, operating with a Standard Operating Procedure and a strict code of conduct to ensure professionalism and accountability.
He highlighted achievements including the dismantling of illegal camps, prosecution of offenders, and restoration of order in volatile mining corridors.
“These actions have sent a strong signal that government is present and resolute in protecting the sector, we won’t cave to blackmail. Enforcement alone won’t defeat illegal mining — the media must be partners in this fight,” he urged.
Onoja admitted challenges including entrenched interests, hostile terrain and limited logistics but insists the campaign is critical to Nigeria’s future, urging stronger government support and media collaboration.
“This fight is about protecting our environment, securing our economy, and making sure generations unborn inherit a safer, wealthier Nigeria, the media are not just chroniclers of events, but partners in nation-building. Balanced reporting that shuns falsehoods and blackmail will strengthen our efforts and safeguard mineral wealth for future generations,” he added.
Citing the provisions of the mining law such as Section 134 mandating registration before mineral movement, and Section 48 limiting small-scale mining depth now being strictly enforced, Violators, he warned, face serious consequences.
“The fight against illegal mining is about protecting our environment, securing our economy, and ensuring that generations unborn inherit a safer, wealthier Nigeria.” he emphasised.
The Mining Marshals’ operations align with Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises economic diversification, job creation, security, and sustainable resource management.
