The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has intensified operations against illegal mineral processing and trade in the South–South, signalling a tougher stance on unlicensed mining activities that threaten the region’s economic and industrial potential.
Led by DSC Emmanuel Abiahu, the South–South Mining Marshal Team recently sealed a Port Harcourt-based facility found operating without the statutory licences required under the Mining Act.
The operation followed credible intelligence and preliminary investigations confirming serious breaches of the law.
“Further investigations are ongoing, and violators will face strict legal action,” Mr Abiahu said. “All operators must obtain the necessary licences and permits before engaging in mineral processing, purchasing, or exportation. Non-compliance will not be tolerated.”
The enforcement drive aims to protect Nigeria’s mineral resources, improve regulatory compliance, and encourage formal investment into the sector. Observers say that curbing illegal operations is crucial for attracting both domestic and international investors into mining, a sector with significant growth potential.
The NSCDC, under the leadership of Mr Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has pledged to sustain its focus on safeguarding Nigeria’s mineral wealth.
“Our commitment is to enforce the law, promote compliance, and ensure that the country’s mineral resources are developed responsibly,” Mr Abiahu added.
The crackdown also reflects government efforts to formalize the sector, create employment, and stimulate industrialisation through legal mining operations. With South–South Nigeria holding substantial deposits of minerals, enforcement actions are expected to improve transparency and reduce revenue losses caused by illegal trade.
According to a statement by Mr Babawale Afolabi, NSCDC’s National Public Relations Officer, the agency is determined to continue the operations, he said “The NSCDC will not relent in its mandate to regulate mining activities, protect communities, and ensure that economic benefits from the mineral sector are realized by the nation.”
Stakeholders in the mining and investment sectors have welcomed the initiative, noting that enhanced regulatory enforcement could unlock new business opportunities, attract funding, and increase Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global minerals market.
The NSCDC’s action underscores the importance of compliance in Nigeria’s drive to industrialize its mineral sector, prevent environmental degradation, and promote safe, profitable, and legally sanctioned operations.
Operators across Rivers, Bayelsa, and other South–South states are now on notice: failure to adhere to licensing and regulatory requirements may result in immediate facility closures, asset seizure, and prosecution.