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Abdulazeez Abubakar
1 month ago
Overview
Illegal mining fueling school dropout crisis in Plateau
Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling illegal mining, which he says has significantly contributed to school dropouts in mining communities across the state.
He, therefore, called on community and religious leaders, as well as all concerned citizens, to support the government in addressing the menace, describing it as a serious threat to the state’s values and future.
Governor Mutfwang made the appeal on Sunday during a church service at the COCIN Headquarters Church in Jos, where he emphasised the need for unity among believers as a foundation for sustainable development in Plateau State.
The governor, who was accompanied by his wife, Helen, said, “Last week, I ordered a raid on all illegal mining camps across the state. I urge you to help our people understand that we are not trying to deprive them of their livelihoods. The devastating consequences of illegal mining are beyond imagination.
“We conducted research and discovered that school dropout rates in these areas are distressingly high. Many classrooms are virtually empty. Just last month, we uncovered cases where parents in Bassa were sending their children out for child labour. We are tracking them.”
Mutfwang urged community leaders to take responsibility in sensitising their people, stressing that the government, in collaboration with religious institutions, would embark on an intensive enlightenment campaign to address the issue.
“I appeal to all of you, as leaders in your communities, to take up this cause. May God burden your hearts with the urgency of this struggle so that you will rise above all affiliations and speak to your people. The church will play a pivotal role, and we will stand by our religious leaders in this effort,” he added.
https://punchng.com/illegal-mining-fueling-school-dropout-crisis-in-plateau-mutfwang/
