The Plateau State Commissioner for Tourism, Culture, and Hospitality, Hon. Cornelius Dongnaan Doeyok, has declared that the state is redefining tourism as a strategic vehicle for sustainable transformation—one that protects the environment, empowers communities, and preserves cultural heritage.
Speaking at the 2025 World Tourism Day celebration held at Rayfield Resort in Jos, the Commissioner described the theme, “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” as more than a slogan, but a timely call for bold, inclusive action.
“We must move beyond business-as-usual,On the Plateau, tourism must become the engine of sustainable transformation—not merely for economic gain, but as a tool to protect our environment, empower our people, and share our authentic stories with the world in a way that leaves no one behind.”he said.
Doeyok outlined the state’s approach through three interconnected pillars: people, planet, and prosperity. He said the tourism industry must be people-driven, ensuring that local communities benefit directly through dignified employment, cultural preservation, and ownership of tourism enterprises.
He stressed the need for environmental stewardship, describing Plateau’s natural attractions such as Shere Hills, Wase Rock, Pandam Game Reserve, and Jos Wildlife Park as priceless assets that must be fiercely protected.
“We are promoting eco-friendly practices in our hospitality industry—encouraging responsible waste management, reducing single-use plastics, and conserving our water bodies.
“Low-impact tourism such as hiking, birdwatching, and agro-tourism are being promoted to ensure our natural environment is preserved for generations to come.”he stated
On economic sustainability, the Commissioner said the state is supporting local entrepreneurs and encouraging restaurants to source ingredients locally through the “Taste of Plateau” initiative.
He noted that the administration is working to attract high-value, responsible tourists who appreciate meaningful and sustainable travel experiences.
“Our strategy under the leadership of Governor Caleb Mutfwang includes a review of the tourism master plan to embed sustainability into the foundation, We are improving infrastructure with sensitivity to host communities, training our service providers to global standards, and fostering partnerships that combine government oversight with private investment and community ownership.”He declared.
Doeyok called on stakeholders to support the state’s vision, urging tour operators to include community visits and cultural exchanges in their packages. He appealed to the media to help tell what he described as “the new story of Plateau State—a story of resilience, beauty, and shared progress.”
He further encouraged citizens to take pride in their environment and culture, noting that every Plateau resident is a frontline ambassador of sustainable tourism.
Also at the event, Chairman of the House Committee on Tourism and Culture, Owen Dakogol, pledged legislative support for the sector, while the General Manager of the Plateau State Tourism Corporation, Chuwang Pwajok, spotlighted signature events such as the Unity Carols, PRTV Christmas tree-lighting, and the New Year countdown fireworks, calling on private investors to scale up the attractions.
World Tourism Day, celebrated globally on September 27, honors tourism’s economic, social, and cultural impact. Plateau’s 2025 celebration featured cultural dances, music, cuisine exhibitions, and other displays, reinforcing the state’s brand as Nigeria’s Home of Peace and Tourism.
