By Israel Adamu, Jos
The Plateau State Government has appealed to miners to be patient following the suspension of mining activities across the state. It assured them that the administration of Governor Caleb Mutfwang is committed to revitalizing the sector while addressing security concerns.
Commissioner for Information and Communication, Rt. Hon. Joyce Ramnap, made this appeal while speaking to journalists in Jos on Wednesday.
She explained that the suspension was necessary to curb illegal mining, prevent land degradation, combat child labor, and address rising security threats. She also pointed out that the influx of unregulated foreign miners has contributed to banditry, kidnapping, drug trafficking, and illegal arms possession in mining communities.
Ramnap urged miners to allow the government time to implement its policies effectively, ensuring long-term benefits for the state’s residents.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang had recently issued an executive order suspending all mining activities in the state due to security concerns. The suspension remains in effect until further notice. He also announced plans for a comprehensive security review in mining areas and the enforcement of a Community Development Agreement to ensure socio-economic benefits for the affected communities.
Ramnap acknowledged that the suspension might affect local miners who rely on mining for their livelihood. However, she emphasized that the government’s intention is not to punish them but to formalize and regulate mining activities, making them more sustainable and profitable.
She assured miners that the governor remains committed to their welfare. She also recalled Governor Mutfwang’s meeting with the Minister of Solid Minerals Development in Abuja, where they discussed ways to improve the mining sector for Plateau and Nigeria as a whole.
While mining falls under the exclusive legislative list, she noted that the Land Use Act empowers the governor as the custodian of Plateau State’s land, ensuring proper management for present and future generations.
She further revealed that about 80% of mining activities in the state are illegal, creating security challenges that must be addressed before mining operations can safely continue.
Concerns raised by the government include child labor, as many children drop out of school to work in mines, environmental degradation caused by unregulated mining, and criminal activities such as drug trafficking and assaults in mining areas.
To tackle these issues, the governor has established a technical team to assess the situation and recommend solutions.
Ramnap reiterated the government’s commitment to security, highlighting ongoing investments to make Plateau one of the safest states for residents and businesses.
She called on the people of Plateau to continue supporting Governor Mutfwang’s administration in delivering policies that will improve the mining sector and ensure a safer, more regulated environment for all.
