Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State has approved the immediate constitution of a new task force to combat illegal mining and environmental degradation across the state.
The development was contained in a statement dated September 5, 2026, and signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Chief Gebon Timothy Kataps.
According to the statement, the task force is mandated to enforce government directives against illegal mining and the destruction of forests across Taraba State.
The eight-member team will be headed by Major A.M. Ghali as commander, with Captain K.R. Odenusi serving as second-in-command.
Other members of the task force are ASP Ishaku Daniel, Iziogo Philip, Olakunde D, Kabiru Musa, Zibai Ayuba and Suleiman Daniel.
The government said the task force would be supported by operational personnel drawn from relevant security agencies to strengthen its enforcement activities.
As part of the restructuring, Governor Kefas also approved the immediate dissolution of all existing committees and task forces performing similar functions.
The newly constituted team, the governor said, will consequently assume responsibility for enforcing the state’s directives on illegal mining and environmental protection.
“The task force is expected to work in collaboration with the mobile court established under existing executive orders and submit periodic reports through the Office of the Secretary to the State Government”, the statement read.
The move comes amid renewed efforts by the Taraba State Government to curb illegal mining and its associated environmental and security challenges.
On September 4, 2026, an alleged illegal gold and diamond mining site at Garin Jatau, near Iware in Ardo-Kola Local Government Area, was shut down during an enforcement operation, with three suspects reportedly remanded.
Governor Kefas had earlier suspended mining activities across the state over security concerns, while subsequent enforcement operations resulted in arrests and the dispersal of hundreds of suspected illegal miners.
The latest restructuring, according to the statement, is expected to further strengthen the state’s campaign against illegal mining and the degradation of forests and other natural resources.
Kefas constitutes new task force to combat illegal mining in Taraba