Plateau State Governor, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has formally handed over Pandam Game Reserve to the National Park Service, marking its elevation into Pandam National Park in line with the presidential proclamation of former President Muhammadu Buhari and the concurrent approval of the National Assembly.
The official handover was announced on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, during a courtesy visit to the Government House in Jos by the Conservator General of the National Park Service, Dr. Ibrahim Musa Goni, PhD, FWISON, FFAN, FTPN.
Speaking during the visit, Dr. Goni explained that Pandam is one of ten newly designated National Parks across Nigeria. He emphasized that, with Plateau State’s cooperation, the Service is advancing its mandate to expand protected areas for biodiversity conservation, climate change resilience, and sustainable eco-tourism. He noted that four of the new parks had already been handed over and commended Plateau State for joining in this national initiative.
The Conservator General further appreciated Governor Mutfwang’s hospitality and solidarity, extending condolences to the people of Plateau over recent security challenges and praying for lasting peace so communities can fully enjoy the ecological and economic benefits of the new Park.
In his remarks, Governor Mutfwang acknowledged that he initially had reservations about the handover but, after thorough consultations, became convinced that entrusting Pandam to the National Park Service was in the best interest of Plateau State and Nigeria. He highlighted the Park’s unique ecological significance, noting that it shelters rare and endangered plant species found nowhere else in the world. He pledged Plateau State’s support to the Service in ensuring effective management of the Park.
Following the Governor’s official pronouncement, Dr. Goni led an inspection of branded vehicles provided for the Park’s takeoff operations. Governor Mutfwang described the gesture as reassuring evidence of the Service’s readiness to commence full-scale management of Pandam National Park.
The event was attended by members of the Plateau State Executive Council, including the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Josephine Piyo, alongside other state functionaries.
