An entrepreneurship and leadership trainer, Victor Kuchili, has disclosed that Africa’s tourism market is projected to exceed $2 trillion by 2032, advising youths in the country to strategically reposition themselves to benefit from the sector’s growth.
Kuchili made this known while speaking on “Accessing Funding for Tourism Start-ups” at the Plateau Youth Tourism Roundtable Discussion, themed “Empowering Youths Through Tourism Innovation and Entrepreneurship”, held in Jos at the weekend.
LEADERSHIP Weekend reports that the roundtable discussion was organised by the Plateau State Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Hospitality to engage young people in shaping the future of the state’s tourism and hospitality industry.
The event also brought together government officials, industry experts, and entrepreneurs for discussions on tourism development, funding opportunities, and youth-driven innovation to promote sustainability in the sector.
Kuchili further highlighted the importance of financial literacy in tourism business development and urged young entrepreneurs to manage funds prudently, emphasising that investors support ventures that offer real value and sustainability rather than quick returns.
The General Manager of the Plateau Tourism Corporation, Chuwang Pwajok, said the initiative aligns with Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s vision to build a sustainable tourism economy through active youth participation.
He explained that engaging young people is essential for long-term growth and innovation within the industry, adding that the state government is taking steps to revitalise tourism infrastructure, including the rehabilitation of the Hill Station Hotel, Plateau Hotel, and Jos Wildlife Park.
In his keynote address, the State Commissioner of Tourism, Culture and Hospitality, Hon. Cornelius Doeyok, explained that the Plateau Youth Tourism Roundtable represents a deliberate effort to reposition Jos and Plateau State as top destinations for local and international visitors.
Speaking on behalf of Governor Mutfwang, Doeyok emphasised that the programme seeks to change the narrative about Plateau’s tourism and “tell the Jos story” to the world, showcasing the state’s natural beauty, culture, and economic potential.
On her part, the State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Rt. Hon. Joyce Ramnap, applauded the Ministry and Tourism Corporation for fostering collaboration among stakeholders, noting that the state government is investing in digital and economic platforms to help young people showcase their creativity globally.
Dr Eddy Enenta, Director of Tourism at the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), Abuja, described the engagement as a timely platform for empowering youths to drive sustainable tourism development.
He called for the training of certified tour guides and hospitality professionals to strengthen the state’s tourism capacity, urging youths to embrace creativity and local participation to boost Plateau’s image as a preferred destination.
The Director General of PLASMIDA, Hon. Bomkam Wuyep, said the initiative is aimed at promoting peace and stability across Plateau communities, emphasising that peace remains vital for the growth of tourism and development.
