Governor Caleb Mutfwang has issued a stern warning against the increasing encroachment on government-owned lands in Plateau State, stating that violators will face legal consequences.

The governor delivered this warning during a courtesy visit by Professor Zachariah Yaduma, Director General of the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN), at the governor’s residence in Jos.

Expressing concern over the growing issue of encroachment on both state and federal lands, Governor Mutfwang directed the Commissioner for Lands and Housing to take immediate action to address the problem.

During the visit, the governor also commended FRIN for organising its long-awaited convocation ceremony and emphasised the importance of further research into the various benefits of forestry.

He highlighted the recent discovery of an exotic cactus in Pankshin, stressing the need for advanced research to fully explore its potential.

Professor Yaduma thanked Governor Mutfwang for approving the construction of a biotechnology laboratory to support forestry activities in the state. 

He also appealed to the governor for intervention regarding land encroachment issues at the College of Forestry on Bauchi Road.

The courtesy visit was attended by provosts from several forestry research institutions, including the Federal College of Forestry Jos.

In a separate engagement, Governor Mutfwang also urged members of the newly elected Plateau Youth Council to dedicate themselves to activities that would foster both personal and national development.