Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, has revealed that the Mining Marshals (MM)—a security unit formed in 2024 to protect mining sites—are being subjected to blackmail while enforcing a crackdown on illegal activities.
Speaking at a Ministerial Retreat in Abuja on July 11-12, themed “Enhancing Performance, Strengthening Accountability, and Fostering Innovation in the Solid Minerals Sector,” Mr Alake indicated that several operators have reported alleged corrupt practices by the marshals, which he deemed unfounded and aimed at undermining their progress.
“Our initiatives to combat insecurity and illegal mining are facing significant resistance from those profiting from these illicit operations. The Mining Marshals, who are achieving notable successes, are being blackmailed,” he stated.
Mr Alake affirmed his commitment to the unit, stating he would not yield to any inducements or blackmail without credible evidence of wrongdoing. He also addressed the issue of multiple regulatory funds within the mining sector and confirmed that the president supports a robust approach to these challenges.
He noted inconsistencies regarding the consent letters required from landowners for investors, which are often contested, causing uncertainty in the investment climate. Alake plans to consult with stakeholders and the National Assembly’s Joint Committees on Solid Minerals to resolve these matters.
Highlighting the ministry’s accomplishments, he noted its recognition as the best by the Office of the Head of Service and the recent awarding of the Best Ministry in Service Excellence. The ministry is advancing its seven-point agenda and has initiated the operations of the Nigerian Mining Corporation, which will soon be inaugurated.
Senate Committee Chairman Ekong Sampson praised the retreat’s relevance to the Senate’s economic diversification goals, while House Committee Chairman Jonathan Gaza encouraged the workforce to uphold accountability and innovation within the sector.
