The Plateau State Government has cleared 159 mining companies to resume operations, following a five-month suspension of mining activities across its 17 Local Government Areas.
The decision, announced by the state governor, marks a significant milestone in efforts to reform and regulate the mining sector.
Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, while addressing journalists on Friday in Jos, disclosed that the temporary ban, instituted via Executive Order 001 of 2025, was necessary to restore order, enforce compliance with federal mining regulations, and protect communities from the harmful effects of illegal and unregulated mining.
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“Out of hundreds of applicants, 159 firms were cleared after undergoing rigorous screening by a Technical Committee composed of experts and stakeholders in the mining industry,” the governor said.
The governor emphasised that all non-compliant operators remain barred from mining activities and warned that the list of cleared companies would be published to prevent unauthorised access to sites. He directed the cleared companies to collect their letters of clearance from the Office of the Commissioner for Environment, Climate Change, and Mineral Development.
The governor added that as part of broader reforms, the state will soon begin formalising artisanal miners into cooperatives. “This initiative aims to regulate informal mining activities, secure supply chains, and enforce child protection laws. Any buying centre caught sourcing minerals from unauthorised or underage miners will be prosecuted,” the governor warned.
The government also announced plans to establish a Gemstone Skills Acquisition Centre to train youths, especially indigenes, in modern and sustainable mining techniques. The centre, funded by the state government, will provide a structured path for transitioning from unregulated mining to safe, legal operations.
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Governor Mutfwang expressed gratitude to the people of Plateau State and the security agencies for their cooperation during the suspension period. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building a mining sector that empowers communities, creates jobs, and supports economic growth.
He noted that the Technical Committee will continue its work to monitor compliance and ensure all stakeholders adhere strictly to the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act of 2007 and the 2011 regulations.
Mutfwang declared that the ban remains in place for all unapproved operators until further notice.
