Photos: Council and NSCDC Unite Against Illegal Mining

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Strengthening the Fight Against Illegal Mining

The Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) has entered into a strategic partnership with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals. This collaboration aims to enhance efforts in combating illegal mining across the country. The alliance was officially announced during a courtesy visit by the Commander of the Mining Marshals, ACC Attah John Onoja, to RMRDC headquarters in Abuja on Friday.

Onoja emphasized that the partnership is designed to "combine scientific data with boots-on-the-ground security" to safeguard Nigeria’s mineral resources. He highlighted the importance of synergy between research institutions and security agencies in ensuring effective protection of the nation's natural wealth.

"This visit is about creating a strong alliance," Onoja stated in a social media post shared on Saturday. "To be effective in securing our mineral wealth, the Mining Marshals must work closely with research bodies like the Raw Materials Council. Together, we can hold those who exploit our resources illegally accountable and ensure the sector contributes its rightful value to the country."

According to official reports, illegal mining has led to billions in lost revenue for Nigeria. It has also contributed to environmental degradation and increased insecurity in communities rich in mineral resources. Experts point out that beyond routine security patrols, the lack of reliable data and technical expertise has hindered the effectiveness of current efforts. This new partnership seeks to address these gaps by integrating scientific research with on-the-ground operations.

In his address, the Director-General of RMRDC, Prof. Nnanyelugo M. Ike-Muanso, pledged full support for the Mining Marshals' mission. He outlined several ways the Council will contribute to the initiative, including:

  • Data sharing
  • Joint training programs
  • Laboratory analysis of minerals
  • Technical support where necessary

Prof. Ike-Muanso acknowledged the critical role that security plays in the Council’s mandate of adding value to raw materials. He noted that this collaboration will help align scientific efforts with real-world challenges faced in the field.

Onoja, speaking on behalf of NSCDC Commandant-General Ahmed Audi, assured that the Mining Marshals would provide security for mineral mapping exercises, especially in high-risk areas where researchers are most vulnerable. This commitment underscores the importance of protecting both the people involved in resource exploration and the integrity of the data collected.

The Raw Materials Research and Development Council is a government agency under the Federal Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation. According to information from its website, the agency focuses on promoting the development and optimal utilization of Nigeria’s vast industrial raw materials. Its goal is to foster sustainable industrial growth through research and innovation.

This partnership represents a significant step forward in addressing the complex challenges posed by illegal mining. By combining scientific expertise with security measures, the collaboration aims to create a more robust framework for protecting Nigeria’s natural resources while ensuring they contribute positively to the national economy.

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