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The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals and the Ankpa Traditional Council in Kogi State have agreed to collaborate in the fight against illegal coal mining and promote lawful mining activities in Ankpa Local Government Area. The partnership was announced during a courtesy visit by the marshals, led by Commander ACC John Attah, to the palace of the Ejeh of Ankpa and Chairman of the Traditional Council, HRH Abubakar Ahmed.
During the meeting, the Mining Marshals urged residents to support only licensed mining operators and report any company that fails to honour its Community Development Agreement. They warned that illegal mining has contributed to environmental degradation, insecurity and fatal accidents, stressing that offenders would face sanctions under Nigeria’s mining laws. The corps also reaffirmed its commitment to sanitising the mining sector through stronger enforcement and closer cooperation with host communities.
In response, the Ejeh of Ankpa pledged the full support of the traditional council in eliminating illegal mining and encouraging responsible mineral extraction. He said a well-regulated mining industry would create jobs, protect lives and preserve the environment, while both parties agreed to sustain their collaboration to ensure Kogi’s mineral resources contribute meaningfully to the state’s economic development.
