***Alake says Damau operation is a blueprint for tackling illegal mining across Nigeria
In a major breakthrough, the Federal Government has successfully reclaimed a tin-rich mining site in Damau, Kubau Local Government Area of Kaduna State from illegal operators—without firing a shot.
Rather than confront the illegal miners with force, the Mining Marshals—under the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development—adopted a strategy rooted in dialogue, diplomacy, and community engagement. The site, legally owned by Trobell Minerals Limited, had been under illegal occupation for months, causing environmental damage, economic loss, and growing insecurity in the area.
Through consultations with traditional leaders and local stakeholders, the Marshals secured community backing, leading to the peaceful evacuation of the illegal miners under official supervision.
A respected community elder described the intervention as timely and effective. “This peaceful approach is commendable. The illegal miners posed a serious threat to lives and property. Their exit brings relief to our people,” he said.
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, who spoke during the one-year anniversary of the Mining Marshals, praised the operatives for their professionalism and results-driven approach.
“This is a clear demonstration of smart enforcement. The reward for hard work is more work,” the minister stated, pledging additional resources and operational support to the Marshals.
Dr. Alake noted that while Nigeria has witnessed violent clashes during past anti-illegal mining operations, the Damau case offers a compelling alternative. “If replicated across the country, this model—built on community buy-in and cooperation—could become our blueprint for sustainable enforcement,” he said.
He urged communities nationwide to support the government’s efforts to eliminate illegal mining, which he described as a major threat to national development and investor confidence.
“Illegal mining and insecurity remain the biggest obstacles to unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s solid minerals sector. The Kaduna success story shows what’s possible when we work together,” Dr. Alake added.
The peaceful outcome in Damau stands in contrast to the often-violent confrontations that have marred similar operations in the past, offering new hope for reforming the mining sector through a balanced mix of law enforcement and community trust.
