Illegal Quarry Site Shut Down by Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps NSCDC in Kuje, Abuja
In a significant enforcement action aimed at curbing illegal mining activities, the Mining Marshals of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have dismantled an unauthorized quarrying operation located within the Kuje Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
As part of the operation, thirteen individuals linked to the illicit mining activities were apprehended by law enforcement personnel. These suspects have been charged in court and are currently awaiting formal arraignment, pending the conclusion of ongoing legal procedures.
This operation forms a crucial part of the federal government’s broader initiative to reform and regulate the country’s mining industry. It also aligns with efforts to protect strategic national assets and ensure compliance with existing mining laws and environmental regulations. The government has intensified its crackdown on illegal mining ventures, which have long contributed to significant economic losses, environmental degradation, and social unrest in affected communities.
NSCDC’s ACC issues a statement
According to a statement issued on Thursday by Assistant Commandant of Corps (ACC) Attah John Onoja, the Commander of the Mining Marshals, the arrested individuals were allegedly working for a company that had unlawfully occupied and exploited a quarry lease site that legally belongs to a licensed mining operator. Reports indicate that the illegal activities at the site had been ongoing for over seven months without proper authorization or legal documentation.
Onoja emphasized the seriousness of the offense and reaffirmed the NSCDC’s resolve to uphold the rule of law in the mining sector. “This operation highlights our unwavering commitment to eradicating all forms of illegality in Nigeria’s mining industry,” he stated. “We will not tolerate any attempts by individuals or organizations to sidestep legal procedures or infringe on the rights of legitimate operators.”
The Mining Marshals, a specialized enforcement arm of the NSCDC, were recently inaugurated to address the widespread problem of illegal mining across the nation. The unit’s mandate includes ensuring compliance with national mining regulations, preventing unauthorized exploitation of mineral resources, and safeguarding the environment and public interest. Illegal mining has been identified as a major contributor to Nigeria’s loss of revenue, environmental harm, and community conflicts, especially in rural and peri-urban areas.
NSCDC’s strategic vision
The creation of the Mining Marshals unit reflects the strategic vision of the NSCDC Commandant General, Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi. Under his leadership, the Corps has taken a proactive stance in addressing illegalities not only in the mining sector but also across other critical areas affecting national development and security.
The shutdown of the illegal operation in Kuje comes amid increasing concerns over the proliferation of unregistered and unregulated mining sites throughout the country. Many of these sites operate without proper safety measures, environmental safeguards, or adherence to legal standards, putting both the ecosystem and local populations at risk.
NSCDC issues general warning out
Onoja further issued a stern warning to all mining operators, urging them to ensure strict compliance with Nigeria’s mining and environmental legislation. He cautioned that failure to adhere to established laws would attract serious consequences. “This should serve as a clear warning to all illegal mining operators. The era of impunity in the mining sector has come to an end. We will persist in identifying, investigating, and prosecuting all offenders, regardless of how remote or concealed their operations may be,” he asserted.
The thirteen suspects currently remain in custody, and legal proceedings are expected to commence shortly as investigations continue to unfold. Authorities have reiterated their firm commitment to restoring order, accountability, and transparency to the nation’s mining landscape.
This action aligns with the federal government’s broader agenda to diversify Nigeria’s economy by revitalizing the solid minerals sector while simultaneously enhancing internal security and promoting environmental sustainability.
