The Plateau State Tourism Corporation has commenced activities marking the 2025 World Tourism Day with a sanitation exercise at the Jos Wildlife Park and an awareness carnival float across the city of Jos.
Assistant General Manager of Jos Wildlife Park, Damarvik Chodapi, explained that the clean-up was to transform the park into a healthier and more welcoming space for visitors in line with this year’s theme, “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.”
“If you leave a place very unkempt, when tourists come in, they will not be happy. Health-wise, it is not good. So cleaning the place is in order and in line with the theme, which is about transforming our environment,” Chodapi said.
General Manager of the Plateau State Tourism Corporation, Chuwang Pwajok, said the awareness carnival was designed to sensitize the public ahead of the official commemoration on Saturday, September 27.
“We are raising the tempo and getting the public to be aware that tomorrow is World Tourism Day. As a state known for tourism, we are showcasing activities and inviting the public to participate,” Pwajok noted.
He added that Saturday’s events will feature a guided tour of selected attractions within Jos, followed by a public lecture, cultural performances, and stakeholders’ interaction at Rayfield Resort, Jos, starting at 11:00 a.m.
“It will be an opportunity for us to reflect on our journey so far as a tourism state, identify the challenges we face, and provide solutions together,” Pwajok emphasized.
The carnival float, which covered major parts of Jos metropolis, was well-received by residents. Many expressed appreciation for the government’s efforts and pledged support for tourism development.
A participant, Mrs. Asabe Monday, praised the initiative, saying it helps preserve cultural heritage for the younger generation.
“Tourism is showing us everything our forefathers did not tell us. It motivates us women to teach our children. The Plateau government is trying, but they must put in more effort so our small children will know about tourism,” she said.
Similarly, Stephanie Veirat Joseph, the reigning Face of Tourism, Plateau State, encouraged residents to join the celebration at Rayfield Resort.
“The World Tourism Day is going to be a wild experience with tours and cultural displays. I must say the Plateau State government is doing a beautiful job in promoting tourism, and our governor is very passionate about it,” she said.
The World Tourism Day is celebrated globally on September 27. This year’s theme focuses on sustainability and transformation in the tourism sector.
