Plateau, Namibia Seal Strategic Partnership On Tourism, Livestock Development

The Plateau State Government and the Republic of Namibia have commenced high-level discussions aimed at establishing a strategic partnership in tourism, mining, wildlife conservation, livestock development and intra-African trade.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang hosted the Namibian High Commissioner to Nigeria, H.E. Walde Natangwe Ndevashiya, at the New Government House, Rayfield, Jos.

According to a statement by the Director of Press and Public Affairs, Dr. Gyang Bere, the diplomatic engagement, which attracted top government officials and stakeholders despite a public holiday, underscored Plateau State’s growing profile as a destination for international collaboration and investment.

Speaking during the visit, the Namibian High Commissioner commended Governor Mutfwang and members of his cabinet for their commitment to governance and public service.

“I did not expect to meet such a large gathering of leaders, especially on a public holiday when many would ordinarily be with their families. Your presence here is a strong demonstration of commitment to service, and we are impressed by what we have seen,” the envoy said.

He described Plateau State as “a true home of peace and tourism,” praising its hospitality, climate and tourism potential.

Ndevashiya said the visit followed directives from the President of Namibia, Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, after discussions with former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo during events marking her first anniversary in office.

He said Namibia was seeking stronger partnerships with Nigerian states in key areas of economic diversification and continental integration.

“We are here to move from rhetoric to action. Africa must begin to trade meaningfully with itself. Plateau State and Namibia can lead that process through practical cooperation in mining, tourism, wildlife development, agriculture, and the creative economy,” he said.

He also disclosed that Namibia was considering expanding its premium beef export market to Nigeria, noting that the country already exports high-quality beef to Europe and the United States.

The envoy added that Namibia’s expertise in wildlife conservation and fisheries could support Plateau State’s efforts to revitalise its tourism and livestock sectors.

Governor Mutfwang described the visit as a major diplomatic milestone aligned with his administration’s drive to reposition Plateau State as a hub for investment, tourism and economic growth.

He recalled his visit to Namibia in 2012, saying it exposed him to the country’s successful wildlife conservation model, which inspired Plateau’s renewed push to rehabilitate its wildlife park and tourism assets.

He expressed optimism that the partnership would yield tangible economic benefits for both sides, stressing the need for African countries to strengthen intra-African trade and reduce dependence on external economies.

“Africa has enough capacity and resources to build prosperous economies if we look inward and mobilise our strengths effectively. Plateau State is ready to lead the pace in building stronger economic and cultural ties between Nigeria and Namibia,” he said.

Former Nigerian Ambassador to Namibia and ex-Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bagudu Hirse, also commended the initiative, describing Namibia as one of Africa’s most successful tourism and wildlife economies.

He praised President Nandi-Ndaitwah for supporting stronger bilateral relations and lauded Governor Mutfwang for prioritising strategic international partnerships to boost Plateau’s economy.