Plateau gov lifts mining ban for 159 licensed operators
By Eagle Eye News24
The Plateau State Government has partially lifted the suspension on mining activities, granting clearance to 159 licensed companies to resume operations across the state.
The decision follows a comprehensive verification and screening process aimed at restoring order to the sector barely four months after suspension of mining activities in the state.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang, who made the announcement during a press briefing in Jos on Friday, approved operators that include six companies with mining licenses, fifteen with small-scale mining leases, fifteen exploration license holders, five artisanal and small-scale mining permits, one quarry lease, and 118 tin sheds and buying centers.
According to the governor , the companies cleared include six mining licenses, 15 small-scale mining leases, 15 exploration licenses, 5 artisanal and small-scale mining permits, one quarry lease, and 118 tin sheds/buying centers.
The governor warned that any operator or individual who has not been cleared by the committee must stay away from all mining sites, as the suspension remains in effect for non-compliant operators.
He also directed the cleared operators to collect their letters of clearance from the Office of the Commissioner for Environment, Climate Change, and Mineral Development.
The governor said, “When I signed Executive Order 001 of 2025, temporarily suspending all mining activities across the 17 Local Government Areas of our beloved Plateau State.
“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. 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.
“Today, many households in our state depend on mining to survive. However, three months ago, we recognized the urgent need to intervene, to bring about reforms, enhance security, and restore human dignity to our communities.
” That intervention was not only timely, it was necessary.It is particularly heartbreaking to observe how many of our young people have abandoned their education to engage in artisanal mining.
“This unfortunate trend has exposed them to exploitation, drug abuse, prostitution, and life-threatening health risks.
“As a responsible and compassionate government, we could not fold our arms and watch this continue.
“We resolved to stop this disturbing trajectory by introducing a fair and sustainable system, a win-win model that ensures mining activities benefit all: the Federal Government, the Plateau State Government, and most importantly, our host communities.”
The governor stated that his administration aims to empower, not exploit, and to build rather than destroy. He noted that Plateau is a key trading hub for minerals and pledged future support for the sector. He added that a Technical Committee of credible experts has already been inaugurated following the suspension.
In his words, their mandate was to engage all stakeholders in the mining sector and develop a framework that ensures compliance with the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007 and it’s Regulation 2011.
“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.
“These include:6 Mining Licenses, 15 Small Scale Mining Leases, 15 Exploration Licences, 5 Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining Permits, 1 Quarry Lease, 118 Tin Sheds/Buying Centers,” he said,
Mutfwang emphasised that the government is committed to reforming the mining sector to ensure that it benefits all stakeholders, including the federal government, the state government, and host communities.
Eagle Eye News24 reports that the Plateau State Governor Bar.Caleb Mutfwang also used the opportunity to appreciate the press,security agencies and the good people of Plateau State for their patience and steadfastness during the period of the suspension.
He announced the approval of a Gemstone Skills Acquisition Centre by the Plateau State Government to equip local youths, especially indigenes, with the skills and support needed to succeed in the modern mining industry.
