Plateau state governor, Caleb Mutfwang has signed and Executive Order suspending all mining activities across the state.
Mutfwang said the decision is aimed at curbing illegal mining, halting the destruction of lands, combat child labour and most importantly, to address the rising insecurity linked to mining activities.
The governor said, “Our beloved state is blessed with immense natural resources, but in recent years, unregulated mining activities have posed significant challenges—environmental degradation, security threats, and economic exploitation of our people.
“As your governor and the Chief Security Officer of this state, I cannot stand by while these dangers continue to jeopardize the safety and prosperity of our communities.
“It is with this deep sense of responsibility that I have signed Executive Order 001 of 2025, suspending all mining activities across Plateau State. “This decision was not made lightly. It is a necessary step to curb illegal mining, halt the destruction of our lands, combat child labour, and most importantly, address the rising insecurity linked to mining operations.”
He noted that, unchecked influx of illegal foreign miners has fueled criminal activities such as banditry, kidnapping, drug trafficking, and the illegal possession of firearms.
“Our communities must no longer suffer the consequences of an unregulated mining sector”, he said.
The governor said in order to the suspension leads to lasting positive change, a Technical Committee on Mining Reform,
chaired by the Commissioner for Justice, Philemon Dafi, has been inaugurated.
Mutfwang said the mandate of the committee includes verifying mining licenses, gathering data on mining sites, enforcing regulations against illegal operations, and recommending designated mining zones that do not encroach on residential lands.
Our government will also work closely with the Federal Government, local authorities, and host communities to establish a framework that ensures mining activities benefit the people rather than harm them.
“Let me be clear: this is not an attempt to stifle economic progress or target any individuals.
“Rather, it is a necessary pause to restructure the sector in a way that prioritizes security, sustainability, and economic equity.
“The resources of Plateau state must be harnessed in a way that truly uplifts our people, and that is the path we are now charting”, the governor said.
He commended the support and cooperation of traditional rulers, particularly, the Gbong Gwom Jos and Chairman of the Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Emirs, His Majesty,
Da Jacob Gyang, who according has pledged the backing of other royal fathers in ensuring the successful implementation of the Executive Order.
