The Plateau State Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Hospitality has hosted the Plateau Youth Tourism Roundtable to engage young people in shaping the future of the state’s tourism and hospitality industry.
The event, held at Usiju World Event Centre in Jos, brought together government officials, industry experts, entrepreneurs, and youth leaders for discussions on tourism development, funding opportunities, and youth-driven innovation to promote sustainability in the sector.
In his welcome address, Hon. Chuwang Pwajok, General Manager of the Plateau Tourism Corporation, said the initiative aligns with Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s vision to build a sustainable tourism economy through active youth participation. He explained that engaging young people is essential for long-term growth and innovation within the industry.
Pwajok noted that the government is taking steps to revitalize tourism infrastructure across the state, including the rehabilitation of the Hill Station Hotel, Plateau Hotel, and Jos Wildlife Park. He added that the focus is now on equipping young people with the necessary skills and knowledge to participate effectively in tourism and hospitality ventures.
Delivering the keynote address, Hon. Cornelius Doeyok, Commissioner for Tourism, Culture and Hospitality, said the Plateau Youth Tourism Roundtable represents a deliberate effort to reposition Jos and Plateau State as top destinations for local and international visitors.
Speaking on behalf of Governor Mutfwang, Doeyok emphasized that the program seeks to change the narrative about Plateau’s tourism and “tell the Jos story” to the world, showcasing the state’s natural beauty, culture, and economic potential.
Dr. Eddy Enenta, Director of Tourism at the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), Abuja, described the roundtable as a timely platform for empowering youths to drive sustainable tourism development. He called for the training of certified tour guides and hospitality professionals to strengthen the state’s tourism capacity, urging youths to embrace creativity and local participation to boost Plateau’s image as a preferred destination.
Speaking on “Accessing Funding for Tourism Start-ups,” entrepreneurship and leadership trainer Victor Kuchili highlighted the importance of financial literacy in tourism business development. He noted that Africa’s tourism market is projected to exceed $2 trillion by 2032, encouraging youths to position themselves strategically to benefit from the sector’s growth.
Kuchili advised young entrepreneurs to manage funds prudently, emphasizing that investors support ventures that offer real value and sustainability rather than quick returns.
The event featured an engaging panel session moderated by Ephraim Freezle, CEO of Explore Nigeria, with key industry voices including Nannah Yakubu, Director of Tourism, Plateau State Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Hospitality; Julie Tongrit, Head of Public Relations; Mark Auta, Tourism Development Officer; Joy Ebere, Former Miss Tourism Nigeria; Christy Abu, Hospitality Consultant; and Robert Santiago, CEO of Mister and Miss Tourism Africa International.
Hon. Owen Dagogot, Chairman of the House Committee on Tourism, commended the Ministry for organizing the initiative, assuring the state assembly’s support for policies and legislation to strengthen Plateau’s tourism and creative industries.
Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap, Commissioner for Information and Communication, also applauded the Ministry and Tourism Corporation for fostering collaboration among stakeholders, noting that the state government is investing in digital and economic platforms to help young people showcase their creativity globally.
In his remarks, Hon. Bomkam Wuyep, Director General of PLASMIDA, introduced a new initiative aimed at promoting peace and stability across Plateau communities, emphasizing that peace remains vital for the growth of tourism and development.
The Plateau Youth Tourism Roundtable concluded with renewed calls for youth inclusion, innovation, and partnership to unlock the state’s vast tourism potential and position Plateau as a key destination in Nigeria’s tourism map.
