Governor Mutfwang Signs MoU with Fed Govt to Revamp Iconic Tourism Sites in Plateau.
By Yakubu Busari
The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Plateau State Government to actively revitalize the tourism sector by renovating iconic sites and rehabilitating neglected tourism infrastructure across the state.
The Honorable Minister, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, signed the MoU on behalf of the Federal Government, while His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, signed on behalf of the Plateau State Government at the Plateau Governor’s Lodge, Abuja.
In a statement obtained by this medium from Gyang Bere, the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State in Jos, it was stated:
Both leaders affirmed that Plateau State is richly endowed with vast tourism potential, which, if properly harnessed, can place Nigeria prominently on the global tourism map and generate significant revenue for sustainable development.
The Minister praised the people of Plateau State for their resilience, hospitality, and determination to change the narrative through Governor Mutfwang’s leadership. She noted that tourism in Nigeria remains incomplete without referencing Plateau State, widely recognized 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 emphasized, “When you talk about tourism in Nigeria, that conversation cannot and will never be complete without Plateau State. Many of us grew up recognizing the state’s 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, with the 2024 edition attracting two former Presidents. Efforts are underway to elevate the 2026 edition to an international event.
Governor Mutfwang described the ongoing security challenges in parts of the state as unfortunate. However, he assured that his administration is implementing decisive, proactive measures to curtail criminal activity and protect lives and property.
“We have hosted conferences where visitors experienced a vibrant nightlife, contrary to negative perceptions. These are signs of improving safety. We are strengthening security further by deploying technology to detect and respond to crime more quickly, positioning Plateau State for greater global engagement.
“Looking ahead to 2027, one of our key goals is to launch a ‘Welcome to Plateau’ project aimed at the diaspora community. We are exploring the development of a diaspora city, utilizing our available land, favorable climate, and investment potential,” the Governor stated.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to addressing all challenges that may hinder development. He urged citizens to remain resilient, supportive, and united in the collective effort to reposition Plateau State as a source of national pride.
