August 29, 2025 — The Federal Government has intensified its clampdown on illegal mining as the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, ordered the sealing of an unlawful gold mining site in the Gwagwalada area of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The directive followed intelligence reports of renewed illegal mining activity in the area, where artisanal miners had invaded farmland behind CKC, Gwagwalada, after the accidental discovery of a gold vein during the digging of a soakaway pit. Officials say the move was necessary to forestall environmental and public health risks.
This latest intervention comes just days after the mining marshals sealed another illegal mining site at District 2 Extension in Gwagwalada on August 16, 2025. Sixteen suspects arrested during that operation are already awaiting prosecution.
Dr. Alake, who deployed mining marshals to secure the newly discovered site, emphasized that the Federal Government remains resolute in its determination to curb illegal mining nationwide. He revealed that the Ministry is accelerating the deployment of satellite surveillance systems to monitor mining activities and enhance enforcement across the country.
During an on-the-spot assessment of the site on Wednesday, officials from the Ministry led by the Director of Mines Inspectorate, represented by Deputy Director Sunday Okhuoya, confirmed compliance with the minister’s order. They also disclosed that a thorough investigation has been launched to identify the root causes of repeated illegal operations in the area.
Commander of the Mining Marshals, Assistant Commandant of Corps (ACC) John Attah Onoja, said his team has mounted 24-hour surveillance over both affected sites, pending the outcome of the Federal Government’s inquiry.
Dr. Alake further warned residents to steer clear of the affected locations until enforcement and remediation efforts are concluded, stressing that illegal mining not only robs the nation of revenue but also exposes communities to severe ecological hazards.
