The Plateau State Commissioner for Tourism, Culture and Hospitality, Hon. Cornelius Dongnaan Doeyok, has emphasized the vital role of digital media in promoting the state’s tourism and cultural assets.
He made the remarks while receiving members of the Plateau State Bloggers and Online Media Association (PLABOMA) on a courtesy visit to the ministry in Jos.
Hon. Doeyok noted that inadequate storytelling and limited visibility of Plateau’s attractions remain major challenges for the sector. He stressed that strategic engagement with bloggers and online media practitioners is essential to attract visitors, investors, and stimulate economic growth.
“One of the things I have identified in this ministry is that we have not been able to tell our story well. We have the climate, the culture, the cuisines, and the sites, but we have not amplified them enough for the world to see,” he said.
He added that digital platforms now dominate public attention, making online media a crucial partner in tourism promotion.
“Most of the news people read today is on their phones. That is why the advantage of online media is bigger. We need you to help put Plateau in the faces of the world,” he stated.
Hon. Doeyok further explained that effective media coverage would attract tourists and investors to undeveloped tourism sites. He described tourism as a strong economic driver capable of creating jobs and boosting revenue.
He also called for structured engagement with PLABOMA as an association rather than individual platforms. “Tourism cannot grow on paper. We need the world to hear about what we are doing here. Media is central to that process, and we want you involved as stakeholders,” he said.
PLABOMA Chairman, Matthew Tegha, commended the commissioner for reviving tourism and cultural activities in Plateau. He highlighted that members operate across various online platforms, reaching both local and international audiences.
“Our members are spread across various online platforms with wide reach. This positions us to promote Plateau State effectively, both locally and globally,” Tegha said.
PLABOMA General Secretary, Ibrahim Kallamu, stressed the importance of professional reporting to counter misinformation and protect the state’s image.
“When false or misleading narratives go unchecked online, they discourage tourism and investment. Platforms like ours exist to provide verified, balanced, and professional reporting,” he added.
Hon. Doeyok assured PLABOMA of an open-door policy and increased media inclusion in the ministry’s 2026 tourism agenda.
“This is the beginning of a new relationship. This ministry should be one of the loudest voices projecting Plateau State to the world, and media partnership is key to achieving that,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the association’s Board of Trustees, Audu Alex observed increased social and economic activities across parts of Jos, describing the development as evidence of renewed momentum in the state’s tourism and hospitality sector.
“What we are seeing on the streets shows that something is working. With proper media documentation, these moments can change narratives and restore confidence in Plateau State,” he said.
The visit ended with a commitment to deepen collaboration, reinforcing the goal of promoting Plateau State as a leading tourism and cultural destination.
