The Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, has commended the Commander of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps Mining Marshals, Onoja Attah, for his contribution to efforts aimed at restoring order and sanity to Nigeria’s mining sector.
The minister gave the commendation during an event in Abuja where Attah was recognised for his work in strengthening the fight against illegal mining and supporting efforts to protect Nigeria’s mineral resources.
Suleiman-Ibrahim described the Mining Marshals’ activities as important to the Federal Government’s broader efforts to reform the solid minerals sector. She noted that illegal mining has remained a major challenge to the country because of its impact on the environment, communities and legitimate mining businesses.
The minister praised Attah’s leadership and commitment, saying his work had contributed to improving discipline and enforcement within the sector. She also acknowledged the importance of security agencies in ensuring that government policies on mining are effectively implemented.
The Mining Marshals were established to support the government’s campaign against illegal mining and protect mining sites and mineral resources. Their operations include identifying illegal mining activities, shutting down unauthorised sites and apprehending individuals suspected of violating mining regulations.
The recognition of Attah comes at a time when the Federal Government is placing greater emphasis on the solid minerals sector as part of its economic diversification programme. Authorities believe Nigeria can generate substantial revenue and employment from its mineral resources if the sector is properly regulated.
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The minister urged the Mining Marshals to maintain their professionalism and continue working within the law. She stressed that protecting Nigeria’s mineral wealth requires cooperation among security agencies, government ministries, mining operators and host communities.
The development has also drawn attention to the need for stronger enforcement against illegal mining while ensuring that legitimate operators are given the necessary support to grow their businesses.
Government officials have repeatedly maintained that the mining sector has the potential to become a major contributor to Nigeria’s economy if illegal exploitation is reduced and investment is encouraged.
Suleiman-Ibrahim’s commendation therefore represents recognition of the role security personnel play in supporting the government’s efforts to sanitise the sector and ensure that Nigeria’s mineral resources are properly managed for national development.