The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), in partnership with the Ebonyi State Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, has announced a ban on illegal mining activities across the state.
The move is aimed at stopping unlicensed mining, protecting government revenue and preventing further environmental damage caused by unsafe mining practices.
Speaking at a joint briefing in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State NSCDC Commandant, Francis Nnadi, directed illegal miners to halt their operations or face legal action.
He also warned mineral buyers and traders operating without the required licences and permits to comply with the directive, stressing that violators would be prosecuted.
Nnadi further cautioned contractors against damaging critical infrastructure, including telecommunications fibre-optic cables and public utilities, during construction projects.
The Commissioner for Solid Minerals Development, Chinedum Nkah, said the mining sector remains an important source of revenue for Ebonyi State and warned against activities that undermine its development.
He urged artisanal miners to register with the ministry, noting that proper documentation would help the government identify legitimate operators and regulate mining activities effectively.
Nkah disclosed that the ministry had established a task force to monitor mining sites and enforce environmental standards, including the reclamation of abandoned mining pits.
The state government and security agencies also called on residents to report suspected illegal mining activities and cases of infrastructure vandalism within their communities.
