The Plateau State Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Hospitality has ushered in a new era for the sector by convening the Plateau Youth Tourism Roundtable. This event was designed to actively engage the state’s young population in crafting the future of its tourism industry, signaling a strategic shift towards intergenerational planning.
Held at the Usiju World Event Centre, the roundtable discussions focused on tourism development, unlocking funding, and championing youth-led initiatives. The agenda was clear: to harness the energy and innovation of young people for a more sustainable and vibrant tourism sector in Plateau State.
In his welcome address, Hon. Chuwang Pwajok, General Manager of the Plateau Tourism Corporation, revealed the inspiration behind the program. He credited Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s vision for a sustainable future, asserting that embedding youth involvement from the start is the surest path to long-term sectoral sustainability.
Pwajok elaborated on the initiative’s dual objectives: to revitalize the state’s tourism infrastructure and to educate citizens on its immense economic potential. He framed tourism as a multi-billion-dollar industry, emphasizing that its success hinges on private investment and local ownership, from which Plateau stands to benefit enormously.
The government is already making tangible progress, with rehabilitation efforts underway at key sites including the Hill Station Hotel, Plateau Hotel, and Jos Wildlife Park. With this foundation being laid, Pwajok stated that the focus is now expanding to building the capacity and skills of the youth for active participation.
Delivering the keynote address, Hon. Cornelius Doeyok, Commissioner for Tourism, Culture and Hospitality, outlined the roundtable’s ambitious mission to change the narrative. The goal is to strategically position Jos as a leading destination for visitors, both domestic and international.
This program, he noted, is a direct reflection of the state government’s commitment to promoting tourism as a primary driver of economic development. It serves as a platform to showcase the inherent beauty and untapped potential of the Plateau to a wider audience.
Speaking on behalf of Governor Mutfwang, Commissioner Doeyok declared that the initiative is fundamentally about telling the “Jos story” to the world. The ultimate aim is to transform Plateau State into a preferred hub for a diverse range of tourism activities.
A lecture by Dr. Eddy Enenta, Director of Tourism at the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism, Abuja, provided expert validation. He described the roundtable as a timely intervention, crucial for empowering youth to drive sustainable development in the sector.
Dr. Enenta underscored that youth involvement is vital for promoting cultural heritage, protecting the environment, and stimulating the local economy. He urged the state government to invest in training certified tour guides and hospitality experts to solidify the industry’s foundation.
The practical aspect of funding was addressed by Victor Kuchili, an Entrepreneurship and Leadership Development Trainer. Speaking on “Accessing Funding for Tourism Start-ups,” he reminded attendees that powerful ideas require financial fuel to become viable businesses.
Kuchili pointed to the projection of Africa’s tourism market exceeding $2 trillion by 2032, urging young entrepreneurs to seize this opportunity. He demystified funding, explaining that capital is for growth, not consumption, and that investors only back ventures that demonstrably provide value.
The event also featured a robust panel session with key industry figures, including Nanna Yakubu, Zonal Coordinator, Nigeria Tourism Development Authority; Julie Tongrit, National Association of Tour Operators; Joy Ebere, Former Miss Tourism Nigeria, Christy Abu, Zonal Coordinator, HATMAN North-Central Zone; Mark Auta, and Robert Santiago, CEO Mister and Miss Tourism Africa International, Moderated by Ephraim Freezle, CEO Explore Nigeria. Their diverse perspectives enriched the dialogue on practical pathways forward.
Echoing the legislative support, Hon. Owen Dagogot, Chairman of the House Committee on Tourism, commended the ministry for the initiative. He emphasized the need for robust legislation to drive the tourism and creative sectors, assuring the ministry of the assembly’s full backing.
Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap, Commissioner for Information and Communication, praised the collaborative effort, noting the state government is creating digital and economic opportunities for youth to showcase their talents globally. This was complemented by Hon. Bomkam Wuyep, Director General of PLASMIDA, who introduced a program aimed at fostering the peace and stability essential for tourism to thrive.
