Illegal Mining a Major Threat to Nigeria’s Economy, Security — NYC

Illegal Mining a Major Threat to Nigeria’s Economy, Security — NYC

The Nigerian Youth Congress (NYC) has described illegal mining as a major threat to Nigeria’s economy and national security, throwing its weight behind the ongoing efforts of the Federal Government and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals to combat the menace across the country.

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 through the deployment of eight gun trucks to support enforcement activities.

According to Kaluba, the deployment of the operational vehicles underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s mineral resources and providing the 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.

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.

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, the 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.

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.

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.

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.