--As Governor Mutfwang warn against under age mining

The Plateau State Government has stated that about 159 mining companies were cleared and obtained licenses to resume mining business in the state after three  months suspension.

Recalled sometimes in February 21th, 2025, Governor Caleb Mutfwang signed Executive Order 001 stopping all mining activities in the state as a result of illegal mining that triggered insecurity, environmental degradation, prostitution, low school enrollment and other social vices in the state.

The government also constituted a technical committee spearheaded by the state Attorney general and commissioner of Justice, Barr. Philemon Daffi to ensure profiling of genuine mining companies in line with the global based practice.

Addressing newsmen at the Old Government House Rayfield, Jos on Friday, Governor Caleb Mutfwang declared that the Executive Order 001 aimed at corrective not punitive measures.

He said the ban still remains in effect as only those cleared by the Committee are allowed to resume operations.

"I am pleased to inform you that the Committee has made significant progress. After thorough screening and verification, 159 companies have been cleared to resume operations. These include:6 Mining Licenses, 15 Small Scale Mining Leases, 15 Exploration Licences, 5 Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining Permits, 1 Quarry Lease,118 Tin Sheds/Buying Centers.

 "Let me sound a clear warning: any operator or individual who has not been cleared by the Committee must stay away from all mining sites.The suspension remains fully in effect for all non-compliant operators. To this effect, the list of non-defaulting Operators would be appropriately published. 

"The cleared Operators are hereby directed to collect their letters of Clearance from the Office of the Commissioner for Environment, Climate Change and Mineral Development.Very soon, we will initiate the process of formalizing artisanal miners into cooperatives. 

"This step will secure the supply chain to the already cleared Tin Sheds and Buying Centers and ensure better oversight and compliance.Any Buying Center found purchasing minerals from unauthorized sources, particularly from underage miners, will face immediate arrest and prosecution", the governor stated.

He also  warned parents and guardians saying, any under age child caught doing mining will be arrested and prosecuted alongside the parents or guardians.

"We call on all parents and guardians to take full responsibility for their children. Any underage child found at a mining site, instead of being in school, will be arrested along with their parent or guardian and sanctioned accordingly.

As part of our reform measures, the government has concluded plans to train artisanal miners in safer, modern, and sustainable mining practices. A Gemstone Skills Acquisition Centre, sponsored by the Plateau State Government, has been approved. 

"This initiative will train and empower our teeming youths, particularly our indigenous population, with the skills and necessary support needed to thrive in a modern mining sector.Gentlemen of the Press, my fellow citizens, I deeply appreciate your patience, cooperation, and steadfast support during this period of decisive, but necessary, action. 

"We thank the security agencies for their roles in the enforcement of the Executive Order 001, and to further warn that government expects that security agencies would remain within limits of the rule of engagements. Together, we are laying a strong foundation to put an end to illegal, exploitative, and dangerous mining practices that have long plagued our land and contributed to insecurity.

"As the Technical Committee continues its noble assignment, we count on your continued support to build a safer, more prosperous Plateau State for all of us."