Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has raised the alarm over the devastating impact of illegal mining on education in the state, revealing that the illicit activity is fueling a disturbing rise in school dropouts across mining communities.
Speaking on Sunday at the COCIN Headquarters Church in Jos, Mutfwang described illegal mining as a direct threat to Plateau’s future, urging religious and community leaders to join forces with the government in tackling the crisis.
The governor disclosed that he recently ordered a statewide raid on illegal mining camps, emphasizing that the move was not aimed at depriving people of their livelihoods but rather at safeguarding the state’s future.
“Last week, I directed security agencies to clamp down on all illegal mining sites across the state. This is not about punishing anyone but about securing the future of our children. The devastating consequences of illegal mining are beyond imagination,” he stated.
Accompanied by the First Lady, Helen Mutfwang, the governor expressed grave concern over reports indicating a drastic decline in school enrollment, particularly in mining hubs such as Bassa, Riyom, Jos South, and Barkin Ladi.
“We conducted research and discovered that school dropout rates in these areas are distressingly high. Many classrooms are virtually empty. Just last month, we also uncovered cases where parents in Bassa were engaging their children in child labor at mining sites. We are tracking them and taking decisive action,” he revealed.
Mutfwang called on religious and traditional leaders to take an active role in reversing the crisis, pledging that the government, in collaboration with faith-based organizations, would launch an aggressive enlightenment campaign to encourage parents to prioritize education.
“I appeal to all of you, as leaders in your communities, 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,” he said.
Beyond the education crisis, the governor also warned of the environmental hazards posed by illegal mining, noting that the reckless excavation of land has led to land degradation, destruction of farmlands, and even the destabilization of residential areas and government institutions.
On security, Mutfwang reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting the state from forces attempting to destabilize it.
“Plateau people are hospitable and accommodating, but they will not tolerate any attempt to erode their values and traditions. Our cultural institutions must be respected, and we will not allow any deliberate effort to undermine the heritage of our people,” he declared.
The governor emphasized that unity among religious bodies remains crucial for Plateau’s peace and progress. He reiterated his commitment to fostering collaboration between the government and communities to build a more secure, prosperous, and enlightened Plateau.
With illegal mining endangering both the education and environment of Plateau State, Mutfwang’s administration appears poised to take firm action. However, the success of these efforts may ultimately depend on the collective will of community leaders, parents, and religious institutions to prioritize the future over short-term economic gains.
PIONEER NEWS 