Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to combating illegal mining, which he identifies as a significant factor contributing to the alarming rate of school dropouts in mining communities across the state.
Speaking during a church service at COCIN Headquarters Church in Jos on Sunday, the governor called on community and religious leaders to support the government in addressing this pressing issue, which he described as a direct threat to Plateau’s future. “Last week, I ordered a raid on all illegal mining camps across the state. I urge you to help our people understand that we are not trying to deprive them of their livelihoods. The devastating consequences of illegal mining are beyond imagination,” he stated.
Accompanied by Her Excellency, Helen Mutfwang, the governor expressed deep concern over recent findings indicating a sharp decline in school enrollment in key mining areas such as Bassa, Riyom, Jos South, and Barkin.
We conducted research and discovered that school dropout rates in these areas are distressingly high, with many classrooms virtually empty. Just last month, we uncovered cases where parents in Bassa were sending their children out for child labor, and we are actively tracking these incidents.
The governor urged community leaders to take responsibility for sensitizing their people, emphasizing that the government, in collaboration with religious institutions, will launch an intensive enlightenment campaign to reverse this troubling trend. He appealed to community leaders, saying, “I urge you all to take up this cause. May God burden your hearts with the urgency of this struggle so that you will rise above all affiliations and address your people. The church will play a pivotal role, and we will stand by our religious leaders in this effort.”
Beyond education, the governor highlighted the environmental devastation caused by illegal mining, warning that unchecked activities are leading to land degradation, destabilization of residential areas, and threats to government institutions.
On the state’s security challenges, Governor Mutfwang emphasized his administration’s unwavering stance against any attempts to destabilize Plateau State. He reaffirmed that while the people of Plateau are known for their hospitality, they expect their traditions, values, and institutions to be respected.
“All Plateau people seek is recognition and respect for their cultural values and traditional institutions. We will not allow any deliberate attempt to undermine our state,” he stated.
The governor also highlighted the importance of church unity in achieving peace and development, pledging ongoing collaboration between the government and the community to build a stronger, more prosperous Plateau.
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