Insecurity: Gov. Mutfwang Signs Executive Order To Suspend Illegal Mining In Plateau

Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has signed Executive Order 001 of 2025, suspending all illegal mining activities across the state. The move is aimed at protecting the environment, addressing security concerns, and safeguarding the well-being of citizens.

The announcement was made during a stakeholder engagement at the Twin Theatre, New Government House in Jos. The meeting, which was attended by traditional rulers, community leaders, local government chairmen, and representatives from mining communities, underscored the growing challenges posed by unregulated mining activities in the state.

Governor Mutfwang explained that the suspension was a necessary step to curb illegal mining, mitigate land degradation, combat child labour, and address escalating security threats. He pointed out that illegal mining activities had attracted the influx of unregulated foreign miners, contributing to banditry, kidnapping, drug trafficking, and illegal possession of firearms 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. All mining operations are hereby suspended until further notice. This measure is aimed at restoring order and ensuring that Plateau’s resources are harnessed for the benefit of its people,” Governor Mutfwang declared.

The governor further emphasized that the suspension was not intended to target individuals or hinder economic progress but rather to ensure that mining is conducted in a responsible and sustainable manner. He also outlined plans for a structured and sustainable approach to mining in the state, involving collaboration with the Federal Government, local authorities, host communities, and mineral rights holders. This collaboration will include establishing a monitoring framework and enforcing Community Development Agreements (CDAs) to guarantee mutual socio-economic benefits for host communities.

To ensure the smooth implementation of mining reforms, Governor Mutfwang inaugurated a Technical Committee on Mining Reform, chaired by the Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Philemon Dafi. The committee has been tasked with verifying mining licences to ensure compliance with regulations, gathering data on mining sites for better resource management, regulating illegal mining operations, and recommending designated mining areas to prevent encroachment on residential lands.

Governor Mutfwang reiterated 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.

In a show of support, the Gbong Gwom Jos and Chairman of the Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Emirs, His Majesty Da Jacob Buba, thanked Governor Mutfwang for the decision and assured him of the unwavering support of the traditional rulers in implementing the Executive Order to safeguard the people and the future of Plateau State.