The Zonal Coordinator of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) in Jos, Nanna Dashe Yakubu, along with her management team, and in her capacity as Chairperson of the Plateau Hikers and Tour Association (PHATA), paid a courtesy visit to the newly appointed Plateau State Commissioner for Tourism, Culture, and Hospitality, Hon. Cornelius Doeyok. The visit served both as a congratulatory gesture and an opportunity to discuss the future of tourism development in Plateau State.
During the meeting, Yakubu emphasized the need for continued collaboration to drive the sector’s growth. She highlighted key areas of concern, including the gazetting of tourist sites to protect them from urbanization and farming, the formation of local government tourism committees for sustainable development, and the use of technology to promote positive narratives about Plateau tourism. Additionally, she advocated for early tourism education in secondary schools and greater participation in major tourism events such as Akwaaba African Travel Market, to enhance networking and trade opportunities for the state.
Speaking as Chairperson of PHATA, she underscored the significant role of hiking in promoting Plateau State as a top tourism destination. She noted that hiking has not only uncovered hidden tourist attractions but has also provided youth empowerment opportunities, fostered peace among communities, and enhanced Plateau’s reputation as a thriving tourism hub.
In response, Hon. Doeyok reaffirmed his commitment to creating an enabling environment for tourism to thrive. He expressed his willingness to work closely with industry stakeholders to develop Plateau’s tourism sector, ensuring its growth, sustainability, and contribution to the state’s economy.
With such partnerships and strategic initiatives, Plateau State is set to further solidify its position as one of Nigeria’s most promising tourism destinations.
