The Plateau State Commissioner for Petroleum, Environmental and Solid Minerals Degradation Awareness Association (PESMDAA), Mr. Kumshi Yunana, has reaffirmed the group’s dedication to tackling the environmental threats posed by illegal mining and other harmful activities across the state.
Speaking with journalists in Jos, Kumshi explained that PESMDAA is a nationwide Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) established two years ago and now firmly rooted at the grassroots level. The group, he said, is focused on raising awareness about environmental degradation, with a special emphasis on illegal mining, oil bunkering, and land misuse.
According to him, PESMDAA operates with nine core mandates, but places a strong emphasis on public enlightenment and intelligence gathering to help reduce the environmental damage caused by unregulated extractive activities.
Kumshi emphasized that PESMDAA collaborates with government institutions at all levels, noting that their efforts complement official policies and enforcement. “Though our work is voluntary, government support will certainly enhance our reach and impact,” he said.
He revealed that the association has earned the trust of many communities across Plateau State due to its consistent record in environmental advocacy, especially in areas affected by mining and land degradation.
The commissioner called on citizens to stop engaging in illegal mining, describing it as a leading contributor to the destruction of farmlands, loss of biodiversity, and long-term harm to the ecosystem.
He reaffirmed PESMDAA’s commitment to promoting sustainable environmental practices and called on traditional rulers, local governments, and community stakeholders to cooperate with the group to ensure more effective interventions.
Kumshi concluded by urging all Plateau residents to take responsibility for protecting their environment, stressing that preserving the land is key to safeguarding the future of generations to come.
