FG cracks down on illegal gold mining in Gwagwalada

By EMMANUEL KUJE, Abuja-

Federal Government has ordered the closure of an illegal gold mining operation in Gwagwalada, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), to curb environmental risks, according to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake,

The directive, announced on Wednesday via a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, in Abuja, was executed by the Mining Marshals.

Alake revealed that the shutdown followed reports of unauthorized mining activities, building on a prior operation on August 16, 2025, where the marshals sealed a site at District 2 Extension layout in Gwagwalada, arresting 16 suspects now facing prosecution.

“This action underscores our resolve to tackle illegal mining and its hazards,” Alake stated.

Investigations indicate that illegal artisanal miners flocked to the Gwagwalada site after a gold vein was accidentally uncovered during the construction of a soakaway pit near a residential area.

The latest incident occurred on farmland behind Christ the King College (CKC) in Gwagwalada, prompting Alake to deploy the marshals to secure the area.

“We acted swiftly to ensure compliance and safeguard the environment,” he added.

NAN notes that on August 8, the Mining Marshals had previously shut down an illegal quarry in Kuje Area Council on July 31, apprehending 13 suspects. ACC John Onoja, Commander of the Mining Marshals, confirmed ongoing 24-hour surveillance at both sites pending the outcome of a federal inquiry.

Alake emphasized that ministry officials were satisfied with the enforcement efforts and have initiated a detailed probe to prevent future occurrences.

To protect public health and the environment, Alake urged residents to steer clear of the affected areas during ongoing enforcement and remediation efforts.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eliminating illegal mining, stating, “We are deploying satellite surveillance technology to enhance nationwide monitoring and strengthen enforcement.”