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The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has stated that the Mining Marshals (MM), a security unit created by the ministry in 2024 to secure mining locations, is currently facing blackmail regarding its enforcement actions.
He made these comments during a Ministerial Retreat for the ministry and its parastatals held on Friday in Abuja. The two-day retreat, running from July 11 to 12, is centered around the theme “Enhancing Performance, Strengthening Accountability, and Fostering Innovation in the Solid Minerals Sector.”
Alake reported receiving multiple allegations from operators claiming that the Marshals were involved in corrupt activities, but he emphasized that these allegations lack substantial evidence and are merely attempts to undermine their work.
He commented, “Our efforts to combat insecurity and illegal mining activities are encountering significant resistance from those profiting from various operations.
The Mining Marshals we established, who are achieving notable success, are being blackmailed.”
Alake reaffirmed his commitment not to be influenced or blackmailed into removing the head of the unit without solid evidence of any wrongdoing.
He also mentioned that the ministry is addressing the issue of overlapping regulatory funds in the mining sector seen at sub-national levels.
He has already briefed the President about this matter and received support to adopt a firm approach, announcing that more developments will be shared in the coming days and weeks.
Additionally, the minister pointed out discrepancies regarding the letter of consent needed from landowners for investors to obtain a license.
He noted that these consents are frequently contested by certain family members or community factions, which has deterred investors and complicated the operating environment.
Alake indicated that he has been informed the consent letter contradicts the Constitution, which asserts that land where minerals are mined is owned by the Federal Government.
To resolve this issue, he plans to consult with key stakeholders and the Joint Committees on Solid Minerals in the National Assembly.
Alake emphasized the importance of understanding the sector's challenges for effective solutions.
He highlighted that the ministry is performing well on its seven-point agenda and workforce productivity, receiving recognition as the best by the Office of the Head of Service.
On June 28, the ministry was honored as the Best Ministry in Service Excellence, and two staff members earned the Efficient, Productive, Incorruptible, and Citizen-Centered (EPIC) Award and the Presidential Civil Service Merit Award, respectively.
He encouraged participants to continuously update their skills and embrace modern technology, warning that traditional paper-based practices are no longer adequate and that management should transition to digital systems for better efficiency.
Alake also mentioned the ministry's achievements, including the adoption of the PARC reporting code, promoting value addition in Africa, and the commencement of operations of the Nigerian Mining Corporation with Martins Imonitie as Chief Executive.
He noted that the corporation would soon be officially launched and is structured to operate as a privately-driven entity, ensuring an enduring legacy while preventing future governmental or political interference.
In his address, Sen. Ekong Sampson, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals, remarked that the retreat's theme is timely and aligns with the Senate's objective of promoting economic diversification and enhancing the nation’s GDP.
Similarly, Rep. Jonathan Gaza, Chairman of the House Committee on Solid Minerals, urged the workforce to build on the ministry’s accomplishments by remaining accountable and innovative in utilizing the sector's resources.
Gaza also called on the minister to address irregularities in the sector, particularly ensuring that foreign companies pay Value Added Tax (VAT) and fulfill their corporate social responsibility relative to their profits.
