Plateau’s Untapped Tourism Goldmine
By Billa Pius
On a clear morning in Jos, the mist slowly lifts over the rocky landscape of Shere Hills, revealing one of the most breathtaking views in Nigeria. The rolling hills, cool climate and dramatic rock formations give the Plateau a rare natural charm that many destinations across the world would envy. Yet despite this remarkable beauty, the vast tourism potential of Plateau State remains largely underdeveloped.
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For decades, Plateau proudly carried the identity of the “Home of Peace and Tourism.” Visitors once travelled from different parts of the country to experience the serenity of Jos and its surrounding attractions. Hotels were lively, markets thrived and tourist sites bustled with activity. Today, however, many of those attractions exist more as reminders of what once was rather than what they could still become.
The reality is simple: Plateau State possesses one of the richest tourism landscapes in Nigeria, yet this natural advantage has not been fully harnessed to drive economic growth and employment.
Natural Attractions Waiting to Be Developed
Few regions in Nigeria enjoy the natural beauty found in Plateau State. The famous Shere Hills remains one of the highest mountain ranges in the country. Its rugged terrain and sweeping panoramic views make it ideal for mountain climbing, hiking and adventure tourism. Across the world, destinations with similar landscapes attract thousands of visitors each year and generate significant revenue for local communities.
Equally captivating is Assop Falls, a picturesque waterfall located along the Jos–Abuja highway. The site offers breathtaking scenery that could easily become a major recreational centre if equipped with modern tourism facilities such as picnic areas, viewing platforms and eco-resorts.
Another remarkable site is Kurra Falls, historically associated with one of Nigeria’s earliest hydroelectric power developments. With its blend of natural beauty and history, Kurra Falls has the potential to become both a heritage and eco-tourism destination.
Within the city itself lies the Jos Wildlife Park, one of the oldest wildlife parks in Nigeria. Once a favourite destination for families and school excursions, the park still retains enormous potential to become a vibrant recreational hub again if revitalised and properly maintained.
These sites show clearly that Plateau does not lack tourist attractions; what it lacks is sustained investment and strategic planning to transform these natural assets into a thriving tourism industry.
Human Stories Behind the Decline
Beyond the statistics and scenic landscapes are real people whose livelihoods have been affected by the decline of tourism.
Mr Tony, a hotel owner in Jos, recalls the days when his establishment regularly hosted tourists travelling to explore the Plateau’s famous attractions. According to him, weekends and festive seasons used to bring a steady stream of visitors to the city. In recent years, however, tourist numbers have dropped significantly, leaving many hotels struggling to maintain the same level of business.
Similarly, Azi Izang, a local craft seller who operates near Jos Wildlife Park, says tourist visits once provided a steady source of income for artisans producing handmade crafts and souvenirs. Today, the stalls that once attracted curious visitors often remain quiet, reflecting the broader slowdown in tourist activity.
These personal stories illustrate a simple truth: when tourism declines, the impact is felt not only at the attractions but also across the local economy.
Culture as a Tourism Asset
Beyond its natural scenery, Plateau State is also one of the most culturally diverse regions in Nigeria. With more than fifty ethnic groups, the state possesses a rich heritage of traditional music, dances, festivals and crafts that could serve as a strong foundation for cultural tourism.
Around the world, cultural festivals have become powerful tools for promoting tourism and preserving heritage. Plateau could leverage its diversity to host annual cultural festivals that celebrate its traditions while attracting visitors from across Nigeria and beyond.
Security and Infrastructure Challenges
However, tourism cannot flourish without peace and stability. Recurring security concerns in parts of the state, particularly in communities such as Mangu, Bokkos, and Barkin Ladi, have negatively affected the state’s image and discouraged potential visitors.
Tourism thrives where travellers feel safe and welcome. Restoring lasting peace therefore remains essential for rebuilding confidence in Plateau as a tourist destination.
Infrastructure also requires urgent attention. Some tourist sites lack proper access roads, visitor facilities and effective promotion. In an increasingly competitive global tourism environment, destinations must invest deliberately in infrastructure, marketing and visitor experience.
Reviving Tourism for Economic Growth
Globally, tourism contributes significantly to economic growth and employment. Across many countries, eco-tourism and cultural tourism generate revenue while creating jobs for local communities.
For Plateau State, revitalising tourism could open new economic opportunities for young people, support local businesses and increase internally generated revenue.
The administration of Caleb Mutfwang has an opportunity to reposition tourism as a central pillar of the state’s development strategy. Through strategic partnerships with private investors, improved infrastructure and deliberate tourism promotion, Plateau could reclaim its reputation as one of Nigeria’s most attractive travel destinations.
A Future Waiting to Be Realised
Plateau’s hills, waterfalls, wildlife parks and vibrant cultures are far more than scenic attractions; they are economic opportunities waiting to be unlocked. With vision, sustained peace and deliberate investment, the state can once again transform these natural treasures into engines of growth.
If that happens, Jos could once again welcome visitors from across the country and beyond, restoring the pride associated with Plateau’s enduring identity as the true Home of Peace and Tourism.