By SN24.com 
- üBy Peter Akpah.
The Plateau State Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Hospitality has taken a significant step towards promoting tourism and economic developmentª in the state by convening the Plateau Youth Tourism Roundtable. This event aimed to engage the state’s young population in crafting the future of its tourism industry, signaling a strategic shift towards intergenerational planning.
Delivering the keynote address, Hon. Cornelius Doeyok, Commissioner for Tourism, Culture and Hospitality, outlined the roundtable’s ambitious mission to change the narrative. The goal is to strategically position Jos as a leading destination for visitors, both domestic and international. This program is a direct reflection of the state government’s commitment to promoting tourism as a primary driver of economic development. Commissioner Doeyok declared that the initiative is fundamentally about telling the “Jos story” to the world, with the ultimate aim of transforming Plateau State into a preferred hub for a diverse range of tourism activities.
The Commissioner emphasized the importance of youth involvement in tourism development, stating that it is crucial for promoting cultural heritage, protecting the environment, and stimulating the local economy. He urged the state government to invest in training certified tour guides and hospitality experts to solidify the industry’s foundation.
During the welcome address, by Hon. Chuwang Pwajok, General Manager of the Plateau Tourism Corporation, revealed the inspiration behind the program. He credited Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s vision for a sustainable future, asserting that embedding youth involvement from the start is the surest path to long-term sectoral sustainability. Pwajok elaborated on the initiative’s dual objectives: to revitalize the state’s tourism infrastructure and to educate citizens on its immense economic potential.
Pwajok framed tourism as a multi-billion-dollar industry, emphasizing that its success hinges on private investment and local ownership, from which Plateau stands to benefit enormously. The government is already making tangible progress, with rehabilitation efforts underway at key sites including the Hill Station Hotel, Plateau Hotel, and Jos Wildlife Park.
Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap, Commissioner for Information and Communication, praised the collaborative effort, noting the state government is creating digital and economic opportunities for youth to showcase their talents globally. This was complemented by Hon. Bomkam Wuyep, Director General of PLASMIDA, who introduced a program aimed at fostering the peace and stability essential for tourism to thrive.
A lecture by Dr. Eddy Enenta, Director of Tourism at the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism, Abuja, with the theme Unlocking Plateau State Tourism Potentials: Opportunities for Youth-Led Businesses in Nigeria, provided expert validation. He described the roundtable as a timely intervention, crucial for empowering youth to drive sustainable development in the sector. Dr. Enenta underscored that youth involvement is vital for promoting cultural heritage, protecting the environment, and stimulating the local economy.
Dr. Enenta highlighted the economic relevance of tourism, stating that it is a strategic economic driver and a tool for inclusive development. He noted that globally, the tourism sector accounted for 9.2% of global GDP and over 330 million jobs before the COVID-19 pandemic.
Fatima Pwajok, a participant and make-up artist, expressed gratitude to Governor Mutfwang for the youth summit, highlighting its role in promoting tourism and making Plateau known globally. She noted that the summit has increased awareness about income generation through tourism, equipped the next generation, and broadened horizons regarding institutions offering tourism loans and related opportunities.
Fatima confirmed that makeup and fashion are integral to tourism and announced an upcoming ‘Tourism and Makeup Festival’ at the Tamaral Event Center, aimed at showcasing the growth of tourism in Plateau and empowering youth. She invited everyone to attend, have fun, and learn how makeup and fashion can contribute to youth empowerment through tourism.
The roundtable discussions focused on tourism development, unlocking funding, and championing youth-led initiatives. The event featured a robust panel session with key industry figures, including Nanna Yakubu, Zonal Coordinator, Nigeria Tourism Development Authority; Julie Tongrit, National Association of Tour Operators; Joy Ebere, Former Miss Tourism Nigeria; Christy Abu, Zonal Coordinator, HATMAN North-Central Zone; Mark Auta; and Robert Santiago, CEO Mister and Miss Tourism Africa International.
The discussions highlighted the need for robust legislation to drive the tourism and creative sectors, and the importance of public-private partnerships in promoting tourism development. The state government is creating digital and economic opportunities for youth to showcase their talents globally.
The Plateau Youth Tourism Roundtable has marked a significant milestone in promoting tourism and economic development in Plateau State. The event has provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss the future of tourism in the state and identify opportunities for youth-led initiatives. With the support of the state government, the tourism sector is poised to become a major driver of economic growth and development in Plateau State.