The Plateau State Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Hospitality has successfully hosted the inaugural Plateau Creative Industry Engagement, themed “Unlocking the Creative Economy for Sustainable Tourism and Innovation.”
The landmark forum brought together key players in the creative sector, policymakers, and tourism stakeholders to explore strategies for leveraging Plateau’s rich cultural heritage and creative talents to drive innovation and sustainable economic transformation.
In his opening remarks, Hon. Cornelius Doeyok, Commissioner for Tourism, Culture and Hospitality, described Plateau’s creative industry as a “hidden goldmine” with immense untapped potential. He emphasized that while talent abounds in the state, data, coordination, and strategic investment are critical to turning creativity into real economic value.
He noted that the creative industry has the power to reshape Plateau’s economy if effectively harnessed. However, he stressed that government alone cannot drive this transformation creatives must take ownership, build sustainable businesses, and actively contribute to economic growth.
Doeyok reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for creatives to thrive, explaining that the engagement aims to generate fresh ideas and foster strong partnerships to position Plateau as a hub for tourism, culture, and innovation.
A robust panel session featuring prominent stakeholders from both the public and creative sectors provided deep insights into the industry’s growth potential. Panelists included:
• Bomkam Wuyep, Director General, PLASMIDA
• Dr. Jim Pam Wayas, Executive Chairman, Plateau State Internal Revenue Service
• Owen Dagogot, Chairman, House Committee on Tourism
• Suka Andrew, renowned sound engineer
• James Laman, project management consultant
• Chuwang Pwajok, General Manager, Plateau Tourism Corporation
• Hon. Cornelius Doeyok, Commissioner for Tourism
Discussions centered on strengthening partnerships, enhancing government support, and making creativity a core pillar of Plateau’s economic development.
Creative voices also took center stage at the forum.
• Gabriel Hodus (Elmore), Governor of PMAN Plateau Chapter, commended the government for recognizing the sector’s value, describing the event as a “new dawn” for creatives.
• Augusta Isaac, Chairman of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (Plateau Chapter), highlighted Plateau’s resilience as a creative hub and called for more support for local filmmakers. She also announced a “Catch Them Young” initiative to discover and train young actors in schools.
• Gospel singer Neken Chuwang emphasized the need for fair compensation for artists and urged a review of APCON’s taxation policy to support industry growth.
• Sunday Agbaji (Hilarious Sunnie) described the forum as a direction-setting initiative that shows genuine government interest in the creative economy.
In his goodwill message, veteran Nollywood actor Sani Muazu underscored the importance of clear policies, transparency, and improved security in revitalizing Plateau’s film and entertainment landscape. He revealed plans for a Jos Film Village, which would promote local film production and attract investors.
Closing the event, Barr. Ezra Jinang, Senior Special Assistant on Creativity to the Governor, delivered a vote of thanks. He praised the Commissioner’s leadership and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to continuous engagement and capacity building through upcoming seminars on taxation, content monetization, and legal frameworks to empower creatives across the state.
