By TWE News Desk

Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has announced the partial lifting of the mining suspension order in the state, granting clearance to 159 operators while insisting that the ban remains in force for all non-compliant individuals and companies.

Addressing journalists at the Old Government House in Rayfield, on Friday 23 June, in Jos, Governor Mutfwang reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sanitizing the mining sector and protecting host communities from exploitation and insecurity. “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 governor declared.

The press conference marked exactly five months since the signing of Executive Order 001 of 2025, which temporarily suspended all mining activities across the state’s 17 Local Government Areas. The governor described the move as “bold and necessary,” citing rising concerns over environmental degradation, child labor, health risks, and the growing involvement of youths in artisanal mining.

“It is particularly heartbreaking to observe how many of our young people have abandoned their education to engage in artisanal mining,” he lamented. “This unfortunate trend has exposed them to exploitation, drug abuse, prostitution, and life-threatening health risks.”

According to Governor Mutfwang, a Technical Committee set up in the wake of the suspension has screened and verified 159 operators, who are now cleared to resume operations. These include:

6 Mining Licenses

15 Small Scale Mining Leases

15 Exploration Licenses

5 Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining Permits

1 Quarry Lease

118 Tin Sheds/Buying Centers

He directed the cleared operators to collect their letters of clearance from the Commissioner for Environment, Climate Change and Mineral Development.

The governor also disclosed plans to formalize artisanal miners into cooperatives, secure the mineral supply chain, and establish a Gemstone Skills Acquisition Centre to train young Plateau indigenes in safe and modern mining techniques.

He issued a stern warning to buying centers found dealing with unauthorized sources, especially underage miners. “Any buying center found purchasing minerals from unauthorized sources, particularly from underage miners, will face immediate arrest and prosecution,” he said, adding that parents and guardians would also be held accountable.

Governor Mutfwang praised the security agencies for enforcing the executive order but cautioned them to operate within the limits of their engagement rules.

“We are laying a strong foundation to put an end to illegal, exploitative, and dangerous mining practices that have long plagued our land,” he said. “Together, we will build a safer, more prosperous Plateau State for all.”

While affirming that the ban on unapproved mining operations remains in effect, the governor promised further reforms and initiatives to support the industry and its stakeholders in the coming weeks.