The Plateau State Governor, Mr. Caleb Mutfwang, has signed Executive Order 001 of 2025, suspending all mining activities across the state.
The governor said the move was aimed at protecting the environment, addressing security challenges, and safeguarding the well-being of citizens.
He disclosed this yesterday at a stakeholders’ engagement held at the New Government House in Jos, the state capital.
Among the attendees were traditional rulers, community leaders, local government chairmen, and representatives from mining communities.
According to Mutfwang, the suspension became necessary to curb illegal mining, mitigate land degradation, combat child labour, and address escalating security threats.
Also, the governor said the measure would address the influx of unregulated foreign miners, which has fueled banditry, kidnapping, drug trafficking, and illegal firearms possession in 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.