FG Invites Investors to Turn 4,000 Abandoned Plateau Mine Pits into Power and Tourist Attractions

In an effort to transform longstanding environmental hazards into commercial opportunities, the Federal Government is inviting private investors to take over and repurpose more than 4,000 abandoned mine pits scattered across Plateau State.

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, revealed the initiative following a tragic mine collapse in Kassa, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, which claimed the lives of seven miners. Describing the legacy sites as potential “pits of death,” Alake emphasized that converting them into productive ventures—such as solar power plants, resort destinations, and commercial fish ponds—is the fastest way to save lives and drive regional economic growth.

The hazardous craters were left unmanaged over decades of tin mining by historic conglomerates, including Amalgamated Tin Mines Limited and its successor companies. To fast-track the restoration process, the federal government has begun deploying artificial intelligence and satellite mapping technology to evaluate and characterize each location.

While nearly 60 pits have already been reclaimed by the government, private developers are being urged to submit proposals through the Mining Cadastral Office for the remaining sites. Alake also warned artisanal miners against venturing into abandoned pits illegally, encouraging them to organize into registered cooperatives to access official training, safety gear, and sustainable livelihoods. To prevent similar environmental issues in the future, the government has activated a mandatory rehabilitation fund requiring active mining companies to restore their operational sites.