Despite the escalating security challenges plaguing Plateau State, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, the Executive Governor, remains steadfast in his determination to address the issue while simultaneously harnessing the state’s vast solid mineral deposits to stimulate economic growth.
Governor Mutfwang reaffirmed this commitment during a visit to the office of Dr. Mary Ogba, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, located at the Federal Secretariat in Abuja.
The Governor emphasized the collaboration between his administration and the Federal Government to develop the solid minerals sector and revitalize abandoned mining sites scattered throughout the state, transforming them into valuable resources for agriculture, recreation, and tourism.
Governor Mutfwang stressed the adoption of modern mining exploration techniques in alignment with the Federal Government’s guidelines, with the aim of generating revenue that will directly benefit the people of Plateau State.
He also expressed his administration’s intention to establish mutually beneficial partnerships with key stakeholders in the solid minerals sector to unlock the state’s mineral resources for the holistic development of its inhabitants.
Governor Mutfwang specifically mentioned the Nigerian Mining Corporation and its subsidiary, the NESCO (Hydro Electricity Generating Company), highlighting their untapped potential and expressing a desire to engage in discussions under the Public-Private Partnership framework. This collaboration could maximize the benefits derived from these assets for the state’s advancement.
Hon. Danlami Jelka, the Managing Director of Plateau Investments and Property Development Company, hailed the mining sector as a key driver of the state’s economy under the current administration. He affirmed the government’s willingness to cooperate with the Federal Government and the Impact Nigeria Alliance to enhance productivity and create a conducive environment for citizens engaged in the mining sector.
Dr. Okono Vivian, Director of Mines Environmental Compliance, and Salamatu Umar, Deputy Director of Public-Private Partnership, shed light on the pressing issue of abandoned mining sites in Plateau State. They revealed that the state has the highest number of such sites, accounting for over 700 out of the 1,260 abandoned mining sites nationwide. Recognizing the urgency, they stated that Plateau State has been listed as one of the states to have these sites reclaimed this year, according to a study conducted by the Ministry.
Governor Mutfwang’s unwavering commitment to tackling security challenges and leveraging Plateau State’s solid mineral deposits as catalysts for economic growth showcases his dedication to uplifting the state and improving the livelihoods of its people. With strategic collaborations and the adoption of modern mining techniques, the future of Plateau State holds promising prospects for sustainable development and prosperity.
