Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has reaffirmed that only miners officially cleared by the State Technical Committee are permitted to operate within the state’s mining sector. In a statement on Friday at the Government House in Jos, the governor revealed that 159 mining companies and operators have passed rigorous screening and verification processes, allowing them to legally resume mining activities.
The Technical Committee, inaugurated by Governor Mutfwang following the suspension of mining operations, is composed of experts and trusted professionals tasked with enforcing compliance with the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007, and its 2011 regulations. The committee’s mandate includes engaging stakeholders across the mining value chain to ensure lawful and sustainable practices.
The cleared entities include 6 Mining Licenses, 15 Small Scale Mining Leases, 15 Exploration Licenses, 5 Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining Permits, 1 Quarry Lease, and 118 Tin Sheds/Buying Centers. Governor Mutfwang emphasized, “The suspension remains fully in effect for any operators who have not been cleared. Any unauthorized miner found operating will face legal action.”
Highlighting the government’s commitment to tackling illegal mining and child labor in the sector, the governor issued a stern warning to buying centers and operators, stating that purchasing minerals from unauthorized or underage miners will result in immediate prosecution. He urged parents and guardians to take responsibility for children found mining instead of attending school, stating that both the child and guardian will be subject to sanctions.
As part of ongoing reforms, Governor Mutfwang announced plans to formalize artisanal miners into cooperatives to better regulate the supply chain and improve oversight. “This approach will secure the supply of minerals to cleared Tin Sheds and Buying Centers, ensuring transparency and compliance,” he added.
To further modernize the sector, the Plateau State Government has approved the establishment of a Gemstone Skills Acquisition Centre. This initiative will train youths and indigenous communities in modern, safe, and environmentally sustainable mining techniques, aiming to empower local miners and reduce hazardous practices.
The governor also expressed gratitude to the media for its cooperation and to security agencies for their role in enforcing Executive Order 001, which suspended unauthorized mining. He cautioned security personnel to adhere strictly to rules of engagement while maintaining the crackdown on illegal activities.
“Together, we are laying a strong foundation to end illegal, exploitative, and dangerous mining practices that have long plagued Plateau State and fueled insecurity,” Mutfwang said. He called on the public to continue supporting the Technical Committee’s work to build a safer and more prosperous mining industry in the state.
Governor Mutfwang reiterated the ongoing ban on all non-cleared operators and urged compliance to ensure a more regulated and sustainable mining future for Plateau State.