Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has raised serious concerns over the rising cases of illegal mining in the region, warning of its adverse impact on school enrollment and the broader societal fabric. The governor, speaking after a Sunday service at the Headquarters of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) in Jos, called for urgent intervention from religious leaders, parents, and community stakeholders to curb the menace.
Mutfwang emphasized that illegal mining has fueled a troubling increase in school dropouts, particularly in Bassa, Riyom, Jos South, and Barkin Ladi local government areas (LGAs), which are among the most affected. Citing research conducted by his administration, he revealed that a significant number of young people have abandoned education in favor of mining, leaving schools in these areas nearly empty.
“We conducted research and discovered that school dropouts in communities in Bassa, Riyom, Jos South, and Barkin Ladi LGAs were distressingly high due to the volume of illegal mining activities,” Mutfwang stated. “Schools in these areas are virtually empty because young men and women have abandoned education and opted for mining.”
Beyond the educational setback, the governor underscored the environmental and health risks associated with illegal mining, which continues to threaten human lives and degrade the land. He disclosed that he had ordered a statewide raid on illegal mining camps to curb the activities and restore order.
“Last week, I ordered a raid on all illegal mining camps across the state, and I urge you to make our people understand that we are not trying to deprive them of their livelihoods. But the devastating consequences of illegal mining are beyond imagination,” he explained.
Governor Mutfwang appealed to religious and community leaders to help disseminate the message, urging collective efforts to tackle the problem. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to uniting the people and implementing policies that would drive sustainable development across Plateau State.
“As a government, our goal is to protect the future of our children and ensure that our state is on the path to steady growth. We need everyone’s support to achieve this,” he concluded.
With the state government intensifying its crackdown on illegal mining operations, it remains to be seen how these efforts will reshape the educational and economic landscape of Plateau State. The governor’s call for collaboration signals a proactive approach in tackling a crisis that has long plagued the region.
