Plateau State Governor, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has announced that 159 mining companies have been cleared to resume operations following the temporary suspension of mining activities in the state earlier this year.
The Governor made the disclosure during a press conference held at the Old Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos, on Friday. He stated that the development followed a comprehensive review and screening exercise by a Technical Committee set up in the wake of Executive Order 001 of 2025, which suspended all mining activities across the state on February 21.
Governor Mutfwang said the suspension, though difficult, was necessary to address rising insecurity, environmental degradation, and the exploitation of vulnerable communities—especially the involvement of children and youth in illegal mining.
“In just five months, we have made significant progress. I am pleased to announce that 159 mining companies have now been cleared to resume operations in Plateau State,” the Governor said.
Breakdown of the cleared operations includes:
- 6 Mining Licences
- 15 Small Scale Mining Leases
- 15 Exploration Licences
- 5 Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining Permits
- 1 Quarry Lease
- 118 Tin Sheds/Buying Centers
The Governor warned that the suspension order remains in force for all operators not cleared by the Committee. “Any operator or individual who has not been cleared must stay away from mining sites. The list of compliant companies will be published, and their clearance letters can be collected from the Office of the Commissioner for Environment, Climate Change and Mineral Development,” he added.
Governor Mutfwang also revealed plans to formalize artisanal miners into cooperatives to regulate and professionalize the sector. He emphasized that the government would take firm action against buying centers that deal in minerals sourced from illegal or underage miners.
“Any underage child found at a mining site will be arrested along with their parent or guardian,” the Governor warned, calling on families to ensure children remain in school.
To support sustainable development in the sector, the Plateau State Government has approved the establishment of a Gemstone Skills Acquisition Centre. The center aims to train and empower local youths in modern mining techniques, promoting safer and more productive practices.
Governor Mutfwang concluded by appreciating citizens and security agencies for their support and cooperation, stressing that the state is committed to building a mining industry that benefits everyone — the federal and state governments, investors, and host communities.
He reaffirmed: “Together, we are laying a strong foundation to end illegal, exploitative, and dangerous mining practices that have long plagued our land.”