“Plateau Left with Hazardous Death Traps Despite Contributing to Global Development” – Hon. Peter Gwom

The Commissioner of Environment, Climate Change, and Mineral Development, Hon. Peter Kanang Gwom, has decried the environmental damage caused by mining activities in Plateau State.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ forum aimed at reorganizing the mining sector for revenue generation, held at the Twin Theatre, Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos, Hon. Gwom stressed that the history of mining in Nigeria is deeply rooted in Plateau State. He emphasized the state’s vital contribution to the development of other nations through its mineral resources but regretted that Plateau has not reaped corresponding benefits.

Hon. Gwom lamented the environmental degradation caused by decades of mining, particularly the hazardous ponds left behind after mineral extraction. “While minerals extracted from Plateau have developed other countries, what we have been left with are hazardous ponds that continue to claim lives,” he stated.

The commissioner called for urgent reclamation efforts to address these environmental hazards, which have turned into death traps for the people of Plateau.

In addition to environmental concerns, the commissioner pointed out the need to reorganize the mining sector to generate more revenue for the state. The mining sector, according to Hon. Gwom, has the potential to significantly boost Plateau’s economy if properly harnessed. He noted that the state’s mineral wealth remains largely untapped, and better management practices could lead to increased revenue while ensuring environmental sustainability.

Hon. Gwom stated that a collaborative approach is essential to develop a roadmap that ensures sustainable development while balancing economic growth and environmental protection.

Hon. Gwom urged stakeholders to prioritize the health and safety of local communities in any future mining activities, stressing the importance of reclaiming land affected by past mining operations.

Earlier on, The Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has highlighted the urgent need to fully harness the state’s mineral resources to improve its financial standing.

The governor expressed his concerns about the history of mining in Plateau State, pointing out that despite the large-scale extraction of minerals, the state often saw minimal returns, with only about N500 million being declared annually. He emphasized the need for a clear strategy to ensure transparency and fairness in mining activities, ensuring that all stakeholders benefit appropriately from the sector.

Governor Mutfwang also stressed the importance of maintaining control over the state’s resources. He called on security personnel to remain vigilant against illegal mining and to act with patriotism, safeguarding the state’s natural wealth for the benefit of its citizens.

As discussions continue, the focus remains on exploring opportunities for Plateau to fully capitalize on its vast mineral resources without repeating the environmental mistakes of the past.