The Nigerian Youth Congress (NYC) has declared illegal mining a significant threat to Nigeria's economy and national security. The organization has expressed its support for the ongoing efforts of the Federal Government and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals to combat this menace across the country.
NYC Commends Minister Alake
In a statement issued in Abuja, the President of the Nigerian Youth Congress, Jethro Kaluba, commended the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, for strengthening the operational capacity of the Mining Marshals. This was achieved through the deployment of eight gun trucks to support enforcement activities.
According to Kaluba, the deployment of these operational vehicles underscores the Federal Government's commitment to protecting Nigeria's mineral resources and providing necessary support for security personnel engaged in the fight against illegal mining.
“The deployment of operational vehicles demonstrates the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s mineral resources and supporting security personnel engaged in the fight against illegal mining across the country,” he stated.
Expected Benefits of the Intervention
The youth body noted that the intervention would significantly improve enforcement operations, boost investor confidence in the mining sector, and enhance revenue generation for the country.
“These timely interventions would enhance enforcement operations, improve investor confidence in the mining sector, and boost national revenue generation towards the actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President,” the statement added.
Measurable Successes Recorded
The Congress further observed that the nation was already recording measurable successes in the campaign against illegal mining. It cited reports showing that more than 300 suspects had been arrested, about 150 offenders prosecuted, and several convictions secured since the establishment of the Mining Marshals.
According to the organization, these figures demonstrate that the objectives behind the creation of the specialized enforcement unit are gradually being achieved.
“These achievements clearly show that the objectives behind the establishment of the Mining Marshals are being realized,” the statement noted.
Praise for Mining Marshals
The NYC also praised the officers and personnel of the Mining Marshals, led by Commander Attah Onoja, for what it described as their professionalism, courage, and unwavering dedication to duty. The group pledged its continued support for the team and called for sustained government backing to ensure the success of the anti-illegal mining campaign.
Call for Investigation and Prosecution
At the same time, the Congress demanded a thorough investigation and prosecution of any individuals or institutions found to be undermining the activities of the Mining Marshals, including security personnel who may be involved in illegal mining operations.
“No individual or institution should be above the law,” the statement stressed. It added that discipline, accountability, and strict adherence to the rule of law remain critical to Nigeria's development and the effective management of its natural resources.
Illegal Mining as a Serious Challenge
Describing illegal mining as a serious economic and security challenge, the NYC warned that the practice continues to deprive the nation of substantial revenue, worsen environmental degradation, fuel criminality and banditry, and undermine economic growth.
The organization therefore urged local communities, traditional rulers, youth groups, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to work closely with law enforcement agencies by providing credible intelligence that would aid ongoing efforts to eliminate illegal mining and safeguard the country's mineral wealth.
The Congress maintained that protecting Nigeria's natural resources is a collective responsibility and called for stronger collaboration among government institutions, security agencies, and citizens to ensure that the nation fully benefits from its vast mineral deposits.
