Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has signed the Executive Order 001 of 2025, suspending all mining activities across the state.This is part of the ongoing efforts to address security challenges, protect the environment and safeguard the well-being of citizens of the State.
The decision was disclosed by Governor Mutfwang during a stakeholders’ engagement at the New Government House, Jos, which brought together traditional rulers, community leaders, local government chairmen, and representatives from mining communities.
According to the Governor, the suspension was necessary to curb illegal mining, mitigate land degradation, combat child labor, and address escalating security threats, including the influx of unregulated foreign miners, which has fueled banditry, kidnapping, drug trafficking, and illegal firearms possession in mining communities.
He declared, that the measure is aimed at restoring order and ensuring that Plateau State resources are harnessed for the benefit of its peopleGovernor Mutfwang Stated, that to ensure a structured and sustainable approach to mining in the state, the government will collaborate with the Federal Government, local authorities, host communities, and mineral rights holders to establish a monitoring framework and enforce Community Development Agreements (CDA) that guarantee socio-economic benefits for host communities.
“This suspension is a crucial step towards securing our communities from the threats posed by unregulated mining activities. It is not intended to target individuals or hinder economic progress but rather to ensure that mining is conducted in a responsible and sustainable manner.”
To oversee the implementation of mining reforms, the Governor inaugurated a Technical Committee on Mining Reform, chaired by the Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Philemon Dafi.
The committee is tasked with:1. Verifying mining licenses to ensure compliance with regulations.2. Gathering data on mining sites for better resource management.3. Regulating illegal mining operations to curb environmental and security concerns.4. Recommending designated mining areas to prevent encroachment on residential lands.
The Governor explained that the Plateau State Government remains committed to ensuring that mining activities contribute meaningfully to the state’s economic growth while prioritizing security, environmental protection, and community development.
The Gbong Gwom Jos and Chairman of Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Emirs, His Majesty, Da Jacob Gyang Buba thanked Governor Mutfwang for taken the decision and assured him of the unwavering support of the traditional rulers towards implementing the Executive Order to safeguard the people and the future of Plateau state.
