Barely five months after suspending all mining activities in the state, the Plateau State Government has announced the clearance of 159 mining operators to resume operations. This was disclosed by Governor Caleb Mutfwang during a press briefing on Friday at the Rayfield Old Government House in Jos.
Governor Mutfwang explained that the cleared operators include six holders of mining licenses, 15 small-scale mining lease holders, 15 exploration license holders, five artisanal and small-scale mining permit holders, one quarry lease, and 118 tin sheds or buying centers. These operators were approved following an extensive verification and screening process conducted by a technical committee established after the mining suspension.
He stated that only these approved companies are allowed to return to mining activities. “Anyone not cleared must stay away from the sites,” he warned. He also asked that the certified operators collect their clearance letters from the Office of the Commissioner for Environment, Climate Change, and Mineral Development.
Governor Mutfwang noted that the temporary ban introduced through Executive Order 001 in January 2025 was not meant to harm local livelihoods. Instead, he said the state government acted to protect its people and restore order within the mining sector.
“This decision was not made lightly. It was not aimed at hurting or denying our loyal and industrious citizens of their legitimate sources of livelihood,” the governor said. He pointed out the negative impact of unregulated mining, particularly on the youth who have dropped out of school to engage in hazardous activities. “This unfortunate trend has exposed them to exploitation, drug abuse, prostitution, and life-threatening health risks,” he noted.
He shared that a technical committee made up of credible professionals was set up to consult stakeholders and design a regulatory framework in line with the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act of 2007 and its 2011 Regulation.
According to the governor, “I am pleased to inform you that the Committee has made significant progress. After thorough screening and verification, 159 companies have been cleared to resume operations.”
Mutfwang further stated that the government remains committed to supporting responsible mining that benefits the federal and state governments, as well as host communities. He said his administration’s goal is to create a balanced system that encourages growth while protecting lives and the environment.
He reassured the public that Plateau remains an important center for mineral trade and the government will continue to monitor mining activities for compliance and sustainability.
