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2 clusters · 5 sources · 29 days · First seen · Last updated

Illegal mining regulation in Taraba State

Overview

In September 2026, Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas dissolved all existing anti-illegal mining committees and established a new eight-member task force. Led by Major A. M. Ghali, this unit was mandated to combat illegal mining and environmental degradation through collaboration with security agencies and mobile courts.

By October 2026, the administration’s focus expanded to address internal corruption. Governor Kefas alleged that certain government and security officials are facilitating illicit operations, claiming, “We have more illegal mining inside than those outside.”

To address these challenges, the state government announced plans to distinguish legitimate artisanal miners from criminal operators by requiring registration and operation within designated areas. The administration also intends to compile data on miners and their locations, while exploring financing options to support legal mining operations and improve mineral traceability.

Entities

Taraba State · Agbu Kefas · Major A. M. Ghali

Timeline

  1. [CRIME] 3 sources
    Taraba State Governor alleges officials aiding illegal mining

    Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas has accused government and security officials of facilitating illegal mining, vowing to dismantle these networks through stricter regulation and improved oversight.

  2. [POLITICS] 2 sources
    Taraba State Governor forms new task force to combat illegal mining

    Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas has dissolved existing committees and formed a new eight-member task force to combat illegal mining and environmental degradation across the state.

Sources

blueprint.ng · dailytrust.com.ng · newscentral.africa · premiumtimesng.com · primanews.org