Caleb Mutfwang, the governor of Plateau State, has examined Executive Order 001 of 2025, which temporarily halted all mining operations in the state's 17 local government districts.  

Speaking to reporters at Jos' Government House, Governor Mutfwang stated that the decision to halt mining operations was not taken hastily and was not intended to harm or deprive residents of their rightful means of subsistence.

“I am fully aware that Plateau State has been a cornerstone of Nigeria’s mining history since 1902. The emergence of large-scale mining on the Plateau served as a catalyst for economic growth, industrial development, job creation, foreign exchange earnings, and infrastructural expansion,” the governor stated.

The governor voiced concerns about the increasing number of youths who have dropped out of school to work in artisanal mining, citing the detrimental trend that has left them vulnerable to prostitution, drug misuse, exploitation, and potentially fatal health hazards.  

Following extensive screening and verification, the technical committee's suggestions guided the assessment, and 159 businesses were given the all-clear to start mining again in the state.  

These comprise 118 tin sheds/buying centres around the state, five artisanal and small-scale mining permits, one quarry lease, six licensed mining firms, fifteen small-scale mining leases, fifteen exploration licenses, and more.

Since the suspension is still in full force for all operators who have not complied, the governor advised any operator or person who has not received committee clearance to avoid all mining sites.  

In light of this, the list of operators who have not defaulted will be duly published, and those who have been cleared are instructed to pick up their clearance letters from the Environment, Climate Change, and Mineral Development Commissioner's office.

Source