The Plateau State Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Hospitality has hosted the inaugural edition of the Plateau Creative Industry Engagement, themed “Unlocking the Creative Economy for Sustainable Tourism and Innovation.”
The landmark event convened 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 growth.
In his opening remarks, Hon. Cornelius Doeyok, Commissioner for Tourism, Culture and Hospitality, described Plateau’s creative sector as a “hidden goldmine” with immense untapped potential. He emphasized that while the state is abundant in talent, data, coordination, and strategic investment are critical to transforming creativity into real economic value.
According to him, the creative industry holds the power to reshape Plateau’s economy if harnessed effectively. However, he stressed that this transformation cannot be driven by government alone creatives must take ownership, turn their skills into viable businesses, and actively contribute to economic growth.
Doeyok reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for creatives to thrive. He explained that the engagement aims to generate fresh ideas and foster strong partnerships that will position Plateau as a hub for tourism, culture, and innovation.
A panel session featuring prominent stakeholders from both the public and creative sectors provided deep insights into how the industry can move forward. 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, Culture and Hospitality
Discussions focused on strengthening partnerships, enhancing government support, and making creativity a key pillar of Plateau’s economic development.
Gabriel Hodus (Elmore), Governor of PMAN Plateau State Chapter, commended the government for recognizing the creative sector’s value and giving artists a platform to thrive. He described the engagement as a “new dawn” and called for greater unity among creatives to advance the industry collectively.
Augusta Isaac, Chairman of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Plateau Chapter, highlighted Plateau’s resilience as a center of creativity despite insecurity challenges. She called on the government to support local filmmakers and prioritize homegrown talent in productions. She also announced a “Catch Them Young” initiative to discover and train young actors in schools, thereby rebuilding Plateau’s reputation as a creative hub.
Gospel singer Neken Chuwang emphasized the need for a fair reward system to encourage artists to excel. He also urged the government to review APCON’s taxation policy, warning that it could hamper the growth of the creative sector.
Content creator and comedian Sunday Agbaji (Hilarious Sunnie) described the engagement as a direction-setting initiative that showed the government’s genuine interest in supporting the industry. He encouraged creatives to participate actively in such forums to strengthen collaboration and collective growth.
In his goodwill message, veteran Nollywood actor Sani Muazu stressed the importance of transparency, clear policies, and improved security in revitalizing Plateau’s creative industry. He noted that insecurity had pushed many filmmakers out of Jos and urged the government to adopt film-friendly policies similar to those in Morocco and South Africa. He also revealed plans for the establishment of 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 the vote of thanks. He praised the Commissioner’s dedication and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to continuous engagement and capacity building, including upcoming seminars on taxation, content monetization, and legal frameworks to empower creatives across the state.
