Plateau State Govt Confirms Suspension Of Mining Activities
Akudiang Comfort Pius, Jos.
The Plateau State technical committee on mining reform has stated that it is well-equipped to address the challenge of illegal mining in the region, confirming that comprehensive enforcement measures are now underway.
During a press conference held in Jos on thursday, State commissioner for environment, Mr Peter Gwom, highlighted the importance of this suspension in safeguarding lives and properties from the increasing security risk associated with mining and unregulated operations
On February 21, 2025, Governor Caleb Mutfwang signed Executive Order 001, which suspends all illegal mining activities in the state.
This initiative responds to the severe repercussions that such activities have had on public safety, environmental integrity, and overall security within the community.
In conjunction with the executive order, the governor established a technical committee composed of representatives from various state ministries, federal mining regulatory bodies, the Miners Association, traditional leaders, local government representatives, and security agencies, to be chaired by the State Commissioner of Justice and Attorney General, Barr. Philemon Daffi.
The committee’s mandate includes engaging stakeholders across the mining sector to create a framework that ensures compliance with the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act of 2007 as well as the Mining Regulations of 2011.
Plateau State has a long history as a mining hub in Nigeria, dating back to 1902,” Gwom stated. “The advent of large-scale mining significantly contributed to the state’s economic development, facilitating industrial growth, job creation, and infrastructure advancement.”
He noted landmark investments from the mining sector, including the development of railways, Plateau Hospital, Corona Schools, and Yelwa Club, along with industrial initiatives like the Makeri Smelting Company.
However, the Indigenizsation Decree of the early 1970s and the subsequent closure of the Nigerian Mining Corporation led to the withdrawal of mechanised mining enterprises, paving the way for rampant unregulated and illegal mining practices.
Gwom highlighted the negative consequences of these activities, such as severe land degradation, environmental contamination, increased child labor, and heightened incidence of drug trafficking, robbery, and violent crime. “It’s particularly troubling that many young individuals are abandoning their education to pursue artisanal mining, exposing themselves to exploitation, substance abuse, and dire health risks,” Gwom lamented.
Rt. Hon. Joyce Ramnap, Commissioner for Information and Communication, urged citizens to collaborate with the government in combating illegal mining which poses a serious threat to public safety.
She emphasised the need for media support to effectively disseminate this message throughout Plateau State.
General Gakji Shipi, the governor’s Special Adviser on security matters, recognised the capacity of security agencies to temporarily disrupt illegal mining operations in the region.
