NSCDC Warns Miners Against Illegal Operations, Says Ignorance Is No Excuse

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has warned mining operators across the country against violating mining laws and regulations, stressing that offenders will face prosecution regardless of whether they claim ignorance of the law.

The warning was issued on Monday in Abuja by the Commander of the NSCDC Mining Marshals, Assistant Commandant of Corps John Attah.

The warning comes amid intensified enforcement operations by the Mining Marshals as the corps steps up efforts to sanitise Nigeria’s solid minerals sector, curb illegal mining and ensure that operators comply with established regulations.

According to Attah, the specialised enforcement unit has recorded progress in its operations, particularly across the South-West, where its teams have been monitoring mining sites and enforcing compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

He, however, cautioned mining operators against conducting activities outside the approved regulatory framework.

Attah said, “Ignorance of the law will never be an excuse. Every operator must ensure that mining activities are conducted within the ambit of the law.

“Those who choose to operate outside the regulatory framework will face the full weight of legal consequences.”

The commander explained that the renewed enforcement campaign was not solely focused on shutting down illegal mining operations but also aimed at protecting legitimate investors, boosting government revenue and restoring confidence in the solid minerals sector.

He noted that strict compliance with mining regulations was essential to ensuring that Nigeria’s mineral resources were explored and exploited safely, responsibly and sustainably for the benefit of the economy.

Illegal mining has remained a major challenge in Nigeria, with its activities linked to revenue losses, environmental degradation and the unauthorised exploitation of the country’s mineral resources.

The Federal Government has been seeking to reposition the solid minerals sector as a major contributor to economic diversification and an alternative source of revenue and foreign exchange.

Nigeria is endowed with several commercially valuable minerals, including gold, lithium, limestone, coal, bitumen and tin. Despite this wealth, the sector has continued to face challenges such as illegal mining, insecurity, weak regulatory compliance and the activities of unlicensed operators.

The latest enforcement drive forms part of broader government efforts to strengthen regulation, attract legitimate investment and prevent the illegal exploitation of mineral resources.

The Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development has also continued to emphasise the importance of licensing and compliance among mining operators, maintaining that stronger regulation and adequate protection for legitimate investors are necessary to unlock the full economic potential of Nigeria’s mining industry.

The NSCDC urged mining operators to familiarise themselves with relevant laws and obtain the necessary approvals before commencing operations, warning that deliberate violations would attract appropriate legal action.

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