From Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Plateau State Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Cletus Bako Shurkuk, has announced the unveiling of the maiden edition of PLASSTIFEST—Plateau State Science, Technology and Innovation Festival—scheduled to hold from June 1 to 3, 2026, at Crispan Suites and Event Centre, Jos.
Speaking at a press briefing over the weekend at the NUJ Press Centre, Jos, Dr. Shurkuk described the festival as more than just an event, but a landmark initiative aimed at showcasing Plateau’s creativity, connecting innovators with investors, and charting a sustainable path toward a smarter future.
He said the festival represents a declaration that Plateau State is ready to take its rightful place as a hub of innovation, entrepreneurship, and technological advancement in Nigeria.
“Our state stands at a critical juncture. We face undeniable challenges in education, agriculture, mining, youth unemployment, and infrastructure development,” he said.
According to him, while these challenges have long limited the state’s full potential, they also present significant opportunities for transformation.
Dr. Shurkuk noted that Plateau is richly endowed with natural resources, a vibrant youth population, and a growing ecosystem of innovation, adding that what is needed is a platform to channel these strengths into practical solutions that improve lives and create jobs.
He explained that PLASSTIFEST was conceived to serve as that platform—reimagining Plateau through science, technology, and innovation, and positioning the state as a hub for sustainable development within Nigeria and beyond.
The festival carries the theme: “Reimagining Plateau: Driving Innovation and Technology for a Smarter and Sustainable Future.”
He said the theme is not merely a slogan but a call to action, challenging stakeholders to innovate boldly and embrace technology as a driver of progress.
He linked the vision to the administration of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, noting that it aligns with the mantra that “the time is now.”
According to him, the festival will focus on how science and technology can be harnessed to improve citizens’ quality of life, create employment opportunities, strengthen education and research, and promote digital inclusion so that no one is left behind.
He also disclosed that the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, alongside the Managing Director/CEO of MOFI, are expected to attend the event, describing their participation as a strong signal of Federal Government support for innovation in Plateau State.
Dr. Shurkuk added that PLASSTIFEST will feature exhibitions, keynote addresses, panel discussions involving policymakers and industry leaders, as well as innovation awards.
He further explained that beyond the festival days, PLASSTIFEST is designed as a year-long initiative that will include mentorship programmes and community outreach to sustain the spirit of innovation.
Describing the initiative as a movement, the Commissioner said Plateau is determined to reposition itself not only as a resource-rich state but also as a center of creativity, entrepreneurship, and technological leadership.
He called on students, entrepreneurs, SMEs, investors, researchers, and policymakers to participate fully in the festival, noting that it provides a platform for everyone with ideas and solutions to contribute to the state’s development agenda.
Dr. Shurkuk delivered the briefing at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre, Jos.