Plateau State Government Lifts Mining Ban, Clearing 159 Companies to Resume Operations

Strategic Insights -

Following a five-month suspension of mining activities in its 17 Local Government Areas, the Plateau State Government has cleared 159 mining companies to resume operations. The decision, announced by Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, is part of efforts to reform and regulate the mining sector. The temporary ban, instituted via Executive Order 001 of 2025, aimed to restore order, enforce compliance with federal mining regulations, and protect communities from the negative effects of illegal and unregulated mining.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Plateau State Government has cleared 159 mining companies to resume operations after a five-month suspension.
  • The ban was instituted via Executive Order 001 of 2025 to restore order and enforce compliance with federal mining regulations.
  • Non-compliant operators remain barred from mining activities, and the list of cleared companies will be published to prevent unauthorized access to sites.
  • The government plans to formalize artisanal miners into cooperatives to regulate informal mining activities and secure supply chains.
  • A Gemstone Skills Acquisition Centre will be established to train youths in modern and sustainable mining techniques.

Statistics:

  • 159 mining companies were cleared to resume operations.
  • The temporary ban suspended mining activities across 17 Local Government Areas for five months.
  • The list of cleared companies will be published to prevent unauthorized access to sites.
  • The Gemstone Skills Acquisition Centre will be funded by the state government.

Sources:

  • Plateau State Government, Executive Order 001 of 2025
  • Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang's address to journalists on Friday in Jos.