Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Plateau State Government to aggressively revamp the tourism sector through the remodelling of iconic sites and the rehabilitation of neglected tourism infrastructure across the state.
The Minister, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, signed the MoU on behalf of the Federal Government, while Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang signed on behalf of the Plateau State Government at the Plateau Governor’s Lodge, Abuja.
Both leaders affirmed that Plateau State is richly endowed with vast tourism potential which, if properly harnessed, can position Nigeria prominently on the global tourism map and generate significant revenue for sustainable development.
The Minister commended the people of Plateau State for their resilience, hospitality, and determination to change the narrative under the leadership of Governor Mutfwang.
She noted that tourism discourse in Nigeria remains incomplete without reference to Plateau State, widely known as the “Home of Peace and Tourism.”
“Tourism is critically important because when you develop within a tourism landscape, you create opportunities to absorb a large number of people into meaningful employment.
“As people become engaged, they develop a sense of ownership of the destination.
“That sense of ownership encourages them to protect and preserve it. In this way, tourism can also play a significant role in addressing insecurity by helping to mitigate its root causes,” the Minister stated.
She further emphasised: “When you talk about tourism in Nigeria, that conversation cannot and will never be complete without Plateau State.
“Many of us grew up recognising the state for its immense tourism potential.
“Wherever you go around the world, when people speak about the beauty of Nigeria, they speak about the Plateau; it is truly the Plateau of the world.”
In his response, Governor Mutfwang reiterated that Plateau State is abundantly blessed with unique tourism assets which, when strategically developed in partnership with the Federal Government, will attract international visitors and establish the state as a premier tourism destination in Nigeria.
He highlighted the state’s distinctive tourism sites and vibrant cultural festivals, which have gained national and international recognition.
The Governor noted that the introduction of the Plateau Unity Christmas Carol and Praise Festival has further enhanced the state’s tourism appeal, adding that the 2024 edition attracted two former Presidents. Efforts are underway to elevate the 2026 edition to an international event.
Governor Mutfwang described the persistent security challenges in parts of the state as unfortunate but assured that his administration is implementing decisive and proactive measures to curb criminal activities and safeguard lives and property.
“We have hosted conferences where visitors experienced a vibrant nightlife, contrary to negative perceptions. These are indicators of improving safety.
“We are strengthening security further by deploying technology to detect and respond to crime more swiftly, positioning Plateau State for greater global engagement.
“Looking ahead to 2027, one of our key aspirations is to launch a ‘Welcome to Plateau’ project targeted at the diaspora community.
“We are exploring the development of a diaspora city, leveraging our available land, favourable climate, and investment potential,” the Governor stated.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to confronting all challenges that may hinder development and called on citizens to remain resilient, supportive, and united in the collective effort to reposition Plateau State as a pride of the nation.
