Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang announced on Friday that only miners who have been properly cleared by the State Technical Committee will be permitted to operate in the state, with 159 companies already receiving authorization to resume activities.

Speaking at a press briefing at the Government House in Jos, Governor Mutfwang emphasized that the suspension of mining activities remains in effect for all operators who have not received official clearance.

"I am pleased to inform you that the Technical Committee has made significant progress. After thorough screening and verification, 159 companies have been cleared to resume operations," the governor stated.

The cleared entities include 6 Mining Licenses, 15 Small Scale Mining Leases, 15 Exploration Licenses, 5 Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining Permits, 1 Quarry Lease, and 118 Tin Sheds/Buying Centers.

Governor Mutfwang issued a stern warning to unauthorized operators: "Any operator or individual who has not been cleared by the Committee must stay away from all mining sites. The suspension remains fully in effect for all non-compliant operators."

The governor revealed that the state government will soon begin formalizing artisanal miners into cooperatives to secure the supply chain to cleared buying centers and ensure better oversight and compliance with regulations.

In a move to protect minors, Mutfwang warned that buying centers found purchasing minerals from unauthorized sources, particularly underage miners, will face immediate arrest and prosecution. Parents and guardians of underage children found at mining sites instead of school will also be sanctioned.

"As part of our reform measures, the government has concluded plans to train artisanal miners in safer, modern, and sustainable mining practices," he explained, adding that a Gemstone Skills Acquisition Centre sponsored by the Plateau State Government has been approved to train and empower youth with skills needed for the modern mining sector.

The Technical Committee was established following the suspension of mining activities in the state, with a mandate to engage stakeholders and develop a framework ensuring compliance with the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act of 2007 and its 2011 Regulations.

Governor Mutfwang expressed gratitude to the media and security agencies for their support during the enforcement of Executive Order 001, while emphasizing that the government expects security agencies to operate within the limits of their rules of engagement.

"Together, we are laying a strong foundation to put an end to illegal, exploitative, and dangerous mining practices that have long plagued our land and contributed to insecurity," the governor concluded.