Let us concede to him, the Edo State’s indefatigable helmsman of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Commandant Gbenga Agun, could be classified as one of the highly productive and result-oriented state commandants of the NSCDC. Since his appointment, he has not only succeeded in turning around both the assets and human resources of the command but has also ensured strict compliance with the statutory mandate of the corps in the state, including the revitalisation of security and sanity at all the mining sites in Edo State. Early this morning, during an exclusive interview with People’s Security CEO/Editor-in-Chief, Isiaka Mustapha, Commandant Agun explained how his Command, under the indefatigable leadership of the Commandant-General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has been working round the clock to ensure adequate security and strict compliance at all the mining sites in Edo State, with a view to ensuring accruable gains to the government.
The Edo State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps
is known to have been making significant contributions to the security
of the mining sites in Edo State Could you please tell us more about
the activities of your operatives around the Mining sites in the State.?
Thank you very much for your observation and commendation, as well as your appreciation of our efforts to combat illegal mining at various sites in Edo State. Specifically, the Edo State NSCDC has been making significant security contributions to ensure strict compliance with the Mining Act as established by the Federal Government.
Our priorities include combating illegal mining, ensuring adherence to relevant mining documentation, and safeguarding the environment. These efforts are aimed at ensuring that the nation’s economy benefits from the mining sector. Through our actions, we contribute to the growth and sustainability of the national economy by working to sanitize the mining sector for maximum gains.
Our enforcement of the Mining Act has significantly boosted the economy. As a matter of priority, we consistently deploy our operatives to mining sites to deter illicit activities by illegal miners. I am pleased to report that we are achieving tangible results on an almost daily basis by removing illegal miners and restoring order at mining sites in Edo State.
Could you tell us what exactly was the significance of your duty tour
to Dagbala Mining Site, and how do you think security could be more
coordinated at this strategic mining site, which also serves as a gold
processing centre.?
Well, I was at the Dagbala mining site primarily to assess the gold mining activities firsthand, establish compliance at the site, and support our operatives stationed there in flushing out illegal miners. I also used the opportunity to sensitize miners on the importance of adhering to rules and regulations without resorting to compromise or illegal activities. Additionally, the visit allowed me to review the approval records of legal miners operating within the site.
How impactful has the relationship been between the Edo NSCDC Command and registered miners, as well as the locals and traditional rulers in the state, who are closest to the grassroots? Are they, in any way, supportive of the NSCDC in the state?
The Edo State NSCDC Command’s relationship with these groups has been cordial, as long as they operate within the ambit of the law and regulations outlined by the Federal Government. We are always present to support them, share information, and ensure that intelligence reports are not compromised. The traditional rulers, too, have been highly cooperative to the best of my knowledge. A testament to this was their massive turnout and pledge of support during our recent visit to the site. During the visit, we also emphasized the importance of avoiding communal clashes over mining sites within their domains.
Sir, you were once quoted as advocating coordinated security measures to address the menace of illegal mining. How feasible and workable is this?
Yes, of course, it is achievable, and I can assure you it would be one of the best things to happen to Nigeria’s security architecture. Ideally, the resultant effect of a healthy synergy and cooperation would yield significant improvements in security, especially in intelligence sharing and gathering. It greatly facilitates our work, making it much easier and result-oriented.
Tell us your assessment of the mining situation in Edo State, particularly regarding the significant efforts of your operatives. What are the challenges?
Well, we are braving all odds because of our patriotic zeal. However, this does not mean there are no challenges—just like in every human endeavor. Despite this, we remain steadfast, consistent and patriotic in our mandate to restore order to the nation’s mining sector.
We must applaud our indefatigable Commandant General, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR, for his unwavering commitment and concerted efforts to curb the illicit activities of illegal miners nationwide. His leadership has had a tangible positive impact on the nation’s economy. Under his guidance, nearly 3,000 Mining Marshals have been trained and deployed, actively combating illegal mining activities across the country.