Plateau Launches Maiden Science, Technology Festival to Boost Innovation Economy
By Comfort Pius, Jos
The Plateau State Government has launched plans for the maiden edition of the Plateau State Science, Technology and Innovation Festival (PLASSTIFEST) as part of efforts to position the state as a leading hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology-driven development in Nigeria.
The Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Cletus Bako Shurkuk, disclosed this during a press briefing held on Friday, May 29, 2026, at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Secretariat, Plateau State Council, Jos.
Shurkuk said the three-day festival, scheduled to hold from June 1 to 3 at Crispan Suites and Event Centre, Jos, is designed to showcase local innovations, connect startups with investors, and promote sustainable economic growth through science and technology.
The festival is themed: “Reimagining Plateau: Driving Innovation and Technology for a Smarter and Sustainable Future.”
According to the commissioner, the initiative represents a major step towards transforming Plateau into a center of excellence in science, technology, and innovation.
“This festival is not merely an event; it is a landmark initiative designed to showcase Plateau’s creativity, connect innovators with investors, and chart a bold path toward a smarter, more sustainable future,” he said.
He noted that Plateau State faces challenges in education, agriculture, mining, youth unemployment, and infrastructure development, but stressed that innovation and technology remain critical tools for addressing those challenges.
“Our people are creative, resilient, and resourceful. What we need is a platform to channel this energy into solutions that improve lives, create jobs, and drive sustainable growth,” Shurkuk stated.
He explained that the festival would feature exhibitions by innovators and startups, keynote addresses, panel discussions, networking sessions, and innovation awards aimed at encouraging scientific and technological advancement in the state.
The commissioner further disclosed that the Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, alongside the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), are expected to attend the event.
According to him, their participation reflects Federal Government support for science, technology, and innovation and is expected to attract investors, development partners, and private sector collaboration to Plateau State.
Shurkuk added that PLASSTIFEST is designed as a year-long initiative that will continue beyond the launch through mentorship programmes, innovation support, and community outreach activities.
He said the state government is committed to building an innovation ecosystem where startups thrive, young people create jobs, and technology drives economic prosperity.
The commissioner commended Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for supporting the initiative and creating opportunities for youths and innovators to showcase their talents.
He called on students, researchers, entrepreneurs, investors, and members of the public to participate actively in the festival, describing innovation as a key driver of sustainable development in Plateau State.
