Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to curbing illegal mining, which he identified as a major factor contributing to the rising school dropout rates in mining communities across the state.
Speaking during a church service at the COCIN Headquarters Church in Jos, the governor called on community and religious leaders, as well as all well-meaning citizens, to support government efforts in tackling the menace.
He described illegal mining as a serious threat to the state’s values, education, and future.
“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 deprive them of their livelihoods. The devastating consequences of illegal mining are beyond imagination,” Governor Mutfwang stated.
Accompanied by his wife, Helen Mutfwang, the governor expressed deep concern over the alarming rate of school dropouts in mining areas such as Bassa, Riyom, Jos South, and Barkin Ladi.
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He cited recent findings that revealed a drastic decline in school enrollment, with many classrooms virtually empty.
“We conducted research and discovered that school dropout rates in these areas are distressingly high. Just last month, we uncovered cases where parents in Bassa were sending their children out for child labour. We are tracking them,” he said.
To address the issue, the governor urged community leaders to take responsibility for sensitizing their people.
He also announced that the government, in collaboration with religious institutions, would launch an intensive enlightenment campaign to promote school enrollment and discourage child labour.
“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 added.
Governor Mutfwang also highlighted the environmental dangers of illegal mining, including land degradation, the destabilization of residential areas, and threats to government institutions.
On security, he reassured Plateau residents of his administration’s determination to resist any attempt to destabilize the state.
He emphasised that while the people of Plateau are hospitable and accommodating, they expect their traditions, values, and institutions to be respected.
“All Plateau people seek is recognition and respect for their cultural values and traditional institutions. We will not allow any deliberate attempt to undermine our state,” he warned.
The governor stressed that unity within the church is crucial to achieving these goals, assuring the people that his administration will continue working closely with religious and community leaders to build lasting peace and progress in Plateau.
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In his sermon, the Guest Preacher, Rev. Agwom Azi Magaji, drew from John 11:25, speaking on the theme “I Am the Resurrection and the Life.”
He emphasised that God has the power to restore anything that seems lost or dead, urging believers to maintain steadfast faith.
“The power of resurrection is in Christ Jesus. Every believer must acknowledge God’s power in their lives to remain strong in faith,” Magaji said.
