The Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Prof. Ahmed Audi, has emphasized that combating illegal mining in Nigeria demands a collaborative approach that goes beyond security agencies.

Audi made this assertion at the National Stakeholders and Civil Society Summit in Abuja, highlighting the need for grassroots engagement, local intelligence, and community support to effectively tackle the menace.

According to Audi, the NSCDC has achieved significant success in disrupting illegal mining operations across various states under his leadership, thereby safeguarding the country's mineral resources and boosting government revenue and local economic development.

The Mining Marshals, a specialized unit established during Audi's tenure, have been instrumental in conducting intelligence-driven operations against illicit resource extraction.

The NSCDC boss called for enhanced inter-agency collaboration to address security challenges, stressing that threats such as banditry and terrorism require joint responses grounded in professionalism and integrity. Participants at the summit commended the NSCDC for its contributions to safeguarding national assets and urged greater empowerment of Nigeria's security institutions.

The summit, which drew senior government officials, civil society representatives, and security agencies, provided a platform for stakeholders to deliberate on pressing national threats, including terrorism, oil theft, violent extremism, and human rights violations.