The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has successfully reclaimed over 200 mining sites from bandits and illegal miners nationwide, according to NSCDC Commandant-General, Ahmed Audi. This achievement follows the Federal Government’s recent launch of Mining Marshals, specifically tasked with protecting Nigeria’s mineral resources.

In a statement released Wednesday by NSCDC spokesperson Babawale Afolabi, Audi highlighted the arrest of 300 individuals involved in illegal mining and economic sabotage. Speaking at the Abuja graduation ceremony of the third batch of Mining Marshals, Audi underscored the broader objective to prevent theft of the nation’s valuable mineral assets.

“This crackdown is part of an overarching strategy to safeguard Nigeria’s solid mineral assets,” Audi stated, referencing “Operation Hayakin Logo,” an initiative focused on enforcing compliance with mining laws and deterring unlawful activities.

The event saw attendance from high-level officials, including Minister of Interior Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and Minister of Solid Minerals Dr. Dele Alake. The ministers praised the NSCDC’s efforts, emphasizing the critical role of the newly trained Mining Marshals in securing the country’s resources. Tunji-Ojo noted that the marshals’ specialized training prepares them to protect essential national infrastructure, while Alake, represented by Imam Ganiyu, Director of Federal Mines and Steel, highlighted the economic benefits expected from reduced illegal mining.

In a related development, NSCDC’s Kogi State Command paraded three suspects for criminal conspiracy and vandalism, committed in Ankpa and Isanlu within Kogi State’s Yagba East Local Government Area.