Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has raised the alarm over a troubling rise in school dropouts in mining communities, linking the crisis to the unchecked spread of illegal mining. He warned that beyond the environmental damage, illegal mining is robbing children of their future.
Speaking during a Sunday service at COCIN Headquarters Church in Jos, Mutfwang called on religious and community leaders to rally behind government efforts to tackle this growing menace.
“Illegal mining is destroying our land and depriving our children of education. We must act now before the damage becomes irreversible,” he urged.
Crackdown on Illegal Mining
To combat the crisis, Governor Mutfwang revealed that he recently ordered a statewide crackdown on illegal mining camps. He emphasized that this move is not an attack on livelihoods but a necessary step to safeguard both the environment and future generations.
“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 take away their means of survival but to protect them from a much greater loss,” he explained.
His concerns are backed by alarming statistics showing a steep drop in school enrollment in key mining areas such as Bassa, Riyom, Jos South, and Barkin Ladi. “We conducted research and found that school dropout rates in these areas are distressingly high. Many classrooms are practically empty,” he revealed.
The governor also exposed a disturbing trend of child labor in mining communities. “Just last month, we uncovered cases where parents in Bassa were sending their children to work instead of school. We are tracking these cases closely,” he added.
Community Engagement and Government Intervention
Governor Mutfwang called on local leaders to play a more active role in educating their communities about the dangers of illegal mining. He announced plans for a government-led awareness campaign in partnership with religious institutions.
“I appeal to all of you, as leaders, to take up this cause. May God burden your hearts with the urgency of this struggle so you will rise above affiliations and speak to your people.”
Beyond education, the governor also pointed out the security and environmental risks posed by illegal mining. He warned that if left unchecked, mining activities could lead to severe land degradation, community destabilization, and even threats to government institutions.
Governor Mutfwang’s strong stance signals a new push to reclaim Plateau’s lands and secure a brighter future for its children. However, success will depend on collective action from the government, religious leaders, and local communities.
