Plateau State, known for its rich mining history dating back to colonial times, is grappling with a surge in illegal mining that is threatening education, environmental sustainability, and community development.
A History of Prosperity and Destruction
By 1913, over 108 mining companies were operating under the Royal Niger Company, and by 1943, tin mining had peaked with 80,000 African workers employed on the Plateau. Despite contributing significantly to the economy, illegal mining activities have devastated the land, causing deforestation, biodiversity loss, soil degradation, and water pollution.
Apart from environmental concerns, illegal mining has eroded agricultural land, leading to reduced food production and economic hardship for locals. Theft of mining machinery, diesel, and equipment further compounds the challenges faced by legal miners.
A Growing Threat to Education
A disturbing trend has emerged, with children in primary and secondary schools abandoning education for illegal mining activities. This trend is prevalent in areas like Jos North, Bassa, Jos South, Riyom, and Barkin Ladi local government areas, where illegal mining thrives unchecked.
Stakeholders in the education sector have raised alarms about the growing number of school dropouts. Mrs. Sarah Williams, a head teacher, described the situation as a severe threat to education, with parents often encouraging children to mine for quick financial gains.
James Pam, Principal of Government Secondary School Kabong, noted that illegal mining activities around schools are disrupting educational operations. He called for urgent government intervention, highlighting the return of miners despite prior efforts by security forces to clear the sites.
Communities Torn Between Livelihood and Education
Local community leaders have expressed concern about the long-term consequences of illegal mining. In Heipang Barkin Ladi, a leader lamented that parents encourage their children to prioritise mining over education due to immediate financial rewards.
Pam Dalyop, a 22-year-old miner, defended his involvement, stating, “It is better to engage in illegal mining than kidnapping. We are using the blessings of God on our land to our benefit.” Dalyop claimed to have used mining proceeds to support his family, build a house, and purchase a car.
Government and Advocacy Efforts
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State recently urged traditional rulers to take a stand against illegal mining during a stakeholders’ consultation forum on mining reforms. He assured that the state government would enforce laws to regulate mining activities.
The Renevlyn Development Initiative (RDI), through Project Officer Ifeoluwa Adediran, expressed concern over the lack of oversight by relevant agencies. Adediran stressed the urgent need for stronger monitoring and regulation to curtail illegal mining.
A Call for Sustainable Solutions
Experts warn that unchecked illegal mining could lead to a generation of uneducated youths, loss of revenue for legal miners, and irreversible environmental damage. While Federal Solid Minerals Minister Dele Alake continues to seek foreign investment in Nigeria’s mining sector, stakeholders insist that addressing illegal mining and prioritising education in Plateau State must remain a top priority.
Governor Mutfwang’s administration has vowed to take decisive action to curb illegal mining and restore order. The future of Plateau State’s children, its environment, and its mining legacy depends on collaborative efforts between the government, traditional rulers, and communities.
