In a move to position Plateau State as a hub for technological advancement, the state government has officially announced the maiden edition of the Plateau State Science, Technology and Innovation Festival (PLASSTIFEST 2026).
The announcement was made on May 29, 2026, during a press briefing hosted by the Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Cletus Bako Shurkuk, at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Secretariat in Jos.
The festival, themed “Reimagining Plateau: Driving Innovation and Technology for a Smarter and Sustainable Future,” is scheduled to hold from June 1 to June 3, 2026, at Crispan Suites and Event Centre in Jos.
A Movement for Economic Transformation
Addressing journalists, stakeholders, and guests, Dr. Shurkuk said PLASSTIFEST is more than a symbolic event, describing it as a long-term initiative aimed at transforming the state’s economic landscape.
“Our state stands at a critical juncture. We face challenges in education, agriculture, mining, youth unemployment, and infrastructure development. Yet within these challenges lies extraordinary opportunity. PLASSTIFEST was conceived to be a platform to channel our energy into solutions that improve lives, create jobs, and drive sustainable growth,” he said.
The commissioner added that the initiative aligns with the developmental vision of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, which emphasizes transitioning the state from dependency to creativity and from consumption to production.
Key Highlights of the Festival
The three-day event is expected to bring together local innovators, startups, investors, and industry leaders.
Activities lined up for the festival include exhibitions showcasing local innovations and technical solutions developed by startups, keynote addresses and expert panel discussions on innovation and job creation, networking sessions connecting innovators with mentors and investors, and innovation awards to recognize outstanding contributions to science and technology.
According to Dr. Shurkuk, the expected presence of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsely Tochukwu Udeh, and the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) reflects strong federal support for the initiative.
He noted that the collaboration is expected to boost Plateau State’s visibility and attract development partners and private sector investment.
Call to Action for Youths and Entrepreneurs
The ministry also called on youths, small and medium-sized enterprises, researchers, and farmers to take advantage of the opportunities the festival presents.
The government stated that PLASSTIFEST is designed as an inclusive platform to ensure citizens are not left behind in the growing digital knowledge economy.
Following the official launch, the initiative is expected to continue through mentorship programmes and community outreach activities across the state.