The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps Mining Marshals have launched an intensified nationwide operation against illegal mining. The specialized enforcement unit warned that any violation of mining regulations will lead to prosecution, as part of efforts to bring order to the solid minerals sector.
According to the Corps, operational teams are already seeing significant results, especially in the South-West. The focus is to sanitize the sector and ensure all mining activities comply with existing laws and regulatory requirements.
Commander of the Mining Marshals, Assistant Commandant of Corps Attah John Onoja, announced the renewed drive in a statement on Monday. He said the goal is to eliminate illegal mining, protect Nigeria’s mineral assets, and strengthen compliance across the industry. 
Attah cautioned operators against disregarding the law. He stressed that ignorance will not be accepted as a defense. “Ignorance of the law will never be an excuse. Every operator must ensure that mining activities are conducted within the ambit of the law. Those who choose to operate outside the regulatory framework will face the full weight of legal consequences,” he said.
The Commander explained that the enforcement goes beyond shutting down illegal sites. It is also meant to protect legitimate investors, increase government revenue, and restore integrity to a sector that has been affected by repeated violations and economic sabotage.
He added that lawful, safe and sustainable mining is essential to unlocking the economic potential of Nigeria’s solid minerals. The Mining Marshals were set up as a specialized unit to support reforms in the sector and to curb unauthorized exploitation of mineral resources across the country.
The current campaign aligns with the broader reform agenda of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, which seeks to position mining as a key driver of economic diversification. The Ministry has consistently emphasized regulatory compliance, investor protection, and the removal of illegal mining as critical to attracting investment and rebuilding confidence in the industry.
The renewed operations also reflect the strategic direction of the NSCDC under Commandant General Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi. The Corps said it will continue to work with regulatory agencies, state authorities, traditional institutions, and other stakeholders to ensure responsible exploitation. With enforcement gathering momentum, the Mining Marshals reiterated that approvals are mandatory and compliance is not optional.
