Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has declared an all-out war against illegal mining, identifying it as the primary driver of an alarming surge in school dropouts within the state’s mining communities. During a Sunday service at the COCIN Headquarters Church in Jos, Governor Mutfwang underscored the gravity of the situation, characterizing it as a direct threat to the future of Plateau State. He appealed to community and religious leaders to join forces with the government in tackling this escalating crisis, which has left classrooms empty and children vulnerable to exploitation. The governor revealed recent raids on illegal mining camps and emphasized that the government’s actions were not aimed at depriving miners of their livelihoods, but rather at mitigating the devastating, often unseen, consequences of unregulated mining practices. The governor’s wife, Helen Mutfwang, accompanied him, signifying the administration’s commitment to this critical issue.
The governor’s concern was further amplified by research findings revealing drastically low school enrolment rates in key mining areas like Bassa, Riyom, Jos South, and Barkin Ladi. In some instances, children were found to be engaged in child labour, a practice the government is actively working to eradicate. Disturbed by the scale of the problem, Governor Mutfwang stressed the critical need for community leaders to actively sensitize their constituents to the dangers of illegal mining and its impact on education. He also announced an impending collaborative campaign with religious institutions, designed to raise public awareness and reverse the negative trends observed in these communities. The governor made a heartfelt plea for community leaders to rise above affiliations and prioritize the well-being of the children and the future of their communities. He underscored the crucial role of the church in this endeavor, pledging the government’s unwavering support to religious leaders in their efforts to combat this pervasive problem.
Beyond the immediate educational consequences, Governor Mutfwang also highlighted the broader environmental damage caused by illegal mining. He warned of the severe land degradation occurring across the state, the destabilization of residential areas, and the potential threats to government institutions posed by these unchecked activities. The governor emphasized the interconnectedness of these issues, recognizing that the environmental degradation stemming from illegal mining exacerbates the economic challenges faced by communities, further pushing children out of school and into precarious situations. He called for a comprehensive approach to address not only the immediate symptoms but also the underlying causes of this complex challenge.
Addressing security concerns within the state, Governor Mutfwang reiterated his administration’s firm stance against any actions that threaten the stability of Plateau. He emphasized that while the people of Plateau are known for their hospitality and inclusiveness, they expect their cultural values and traditional institutions to be respected. He affirmed the government’s commitment to protecting the cultural heritage of the state while fostering peaceful coexistence. The governor stressed that the pursuit of peace and development on the Plateau requires unity among various groups and a shared commitment to upholding the values and traditions that define the state’s identity.
The governor’s message was further reinforced by the sermon delivered by Guest Preacher, Rev. Agwom Azi Magaji. Drawing from John 11:25, Rev. Magaji spoke on the theme “I Am the Resurrection and the Life,” emphasizing God’s power to restore and revive what may seem lost or dead. He connected this message to the current challenges faced by Plateau State, highlighting the need for faith and hope in the face of adversity. Rev. Magaji urged believers to recognize God’s power in their lives and to maintain steadfast faith in Him, suggesting that this faith would be essential in overcoming the challenges related to illegal mining and restoring the affected communities.
With Governor Mutfwang’s resolute commitment and his passionate call for collective action, the fight against illegal mining and its detrimental effects on education, security, and the environment now occupies a central position in Plateau State’s governance agenda. The governor’s multi-pronged strategy, encompassing community engagement, religious partnerships, and robust enforcement, signals a determined effort to address this complex issue and secure a brighter future for the children and communities of Plateau State. The emphasis on collaboration between the government, religious institutions, and community leaders highlights a holistic approach to tackling the problem, recognizing that long-term solutions require the active participation of all stakeholders.
