The Ibadan Zonal Command of EFCC and the Oyo/Osun Area Command of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) are joining forces to tackle illegal mining activities in the two states.

EFCC’s spokesperson, Wilson Uwujaren, disclosed in a statement on Friday that agencies made the commitment when the commission’s acting zonal commander, Halima Rufa’u, visited NCS’s Oyo/Osun area controller, Babajide Jaiyeoba.

He said Ms Rufa’u, who expressed her delight at the warm reception accorded her, decried the threats posed by activities of illegal solid mineral operators in the zone to national economic growth.

“It saddens me to see that our natural resources that should have been used to develop our country, build good health facilities, alleviate poverty, and improve our education system are being mismanaged by unscrupulous individuals for their personal gains.

“But EFCC is undeterred by the antics of corrupt individuals, who are benefiting from the illegal mining operations, as we will ensure that extant laws against illegal miners are enforced,” she said.

Ms Rufa’u called for more robust collaboration and synergy between the EFCC and NCS for better results.

In his remarks, Mr Jaiyeoba appreciated Ms Rufa’u’s visit. He commended her for the critical role EFCC played in combating illegal mining activities and cybercrime in the zone.

He expressed confidence in the competence of both organisations to tackle the menace head-on.

“This visit is coming at the right time when there is an increase in illegal mining activities in the states.

“I can assure you that the fight will be won, given the fact that both organisations are willing and ready to partner in the fight against the illegal activities,” the comptroller said.

(NAN)