Governor Mutfwang suspends mining in Plateau, citing security, environmental concerns
Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has signed Executive Order 001 of 2025, suspending all mining activities across the state in a bid to protect the environment, address security threats, and safeguard citizens’ well-being.
Announcing the decision during a stakeholders’ engagement at the New Government House in Jos, Mutfwang emphasized that the suspension aims to curb illegal mining, mitigate land degradation, combat child labor, and tackle the escalating security crisis fueled by unregulated mining operations.
The event was attended by traditional rulers, community leaders, local government chairmen, and representatives from mining communities.
“As the Chief Security Officer of the state, it is my duty to ensure the safety of our people. Given the rising security concerns associated with illegal mining, we must take decisive action,” the governor declared. He noted that unregulated foreign miners have contributed to banditry, kidnapping, drug trafficking, and the proliferation of illegal firearms in mining communities.
To create a structured and sustainable mining sector, the Plateau government plans to collaborate with federal authorities, local communities, and mineral rights holders to enforce Community Development Agreements (CDA) that guarantee socio-economic benefits for host communities.
To oversee the order’s implementation, the governor inaugurated a Technical Committee on Mining Reform, chaired by Commissioner for Justice Barr. Philemon Dafi.
The committee will verify mining licenses, regulate illegal operations, gather data for better resource management, and recommend designated mining areas to prevent encroachment on residential lands.
The Gbong Gwom Jos, His Majesty Da Jacob Gyang Buba, who also chairs the Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Emirs, praised the governor’s bold move and assured him of unwavering support from traditional rulers to enforce the suspension for the benefit of the state’s future.
