In furtherance of the “Time is Now” Administration’s Pillar Thrust on Tourism, Hospitality, and Economic Diversification, the Plateau State Government has commenced a comprehensive assessment of key tourist and heritage sites within the Greater Jos Master Plan as part of a deliberate effort to preserve the state’s rich natural endowments and unlock their potential for sustainable development, job creation, and peace building.
The inspection tour was led on Tuesday by Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap (mni), Commissioner for Information and Communication and Supervising Commissioner for Tourism, Culture and Hospitality, in company of officials of the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Hospitality led by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Musa Nyam Agwom, as well as technical officials from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development and other relevant agencies.
The exercise reflects the commitment of His Excellency, Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, Executive Governor of Plateau State, to move governance from promises to action, and to ensure that Plateau’s identity as the “Home of Peace and Tourism” is not only remembered but restored for the benefit of present and future generations.
During the tour, the delegation visited the Gog and Magog rock formations at Shere Hills, the Unity Rock in Rayfield: which bears a natural resemblance to the map of Nigeria, the iconic Riyom Rock Formation: widely regarded as a symbol of Plateau State, and the historic Mado Tourist Village, a 50-room facility built in 1978 to accommodate visitors to the Jos Wildlife Park and Museum. The team expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of some of the sites, particularly at Gog and Magog where quarrying activities have reportedly destroyed sections of the natural landscape once popular for hiking and picnics.
Speaking to journalists after the inspection, Rt. Hon. Ramnap described Plateau State as richly endowed with natural tourism assets that require deliberate protection and visionary development. She said the purpose of the tour was to identify heritage sites and ensure they are fully integrated into the Greater Jos Master Plan so that development is comprehensive and sustainable. According to her, the state government is working towards developing a tourism policy that will preserve these heritage sites while unlocking their economic potential. “It is not just about identifying these locations. We want to establish policies that will protect them, assess their strengths and threats, and create long-term development strategies that will stand the test of time,” she said.
Ramnap expressed disappointment over the apparent destruction at Gog and Magog, noting that government will investigate the activities of the quarry company operating at the site. “It is sad to see such an important natural attraction being tampered with. From what we have seen, it appears the level of devastation goes beyond what could have been approved. Government will look into the matter and take appropriate steps to protect the site,” she stated. She also appealed to tourists, hikers and residents to continue exploring Plateau’s natural attractions, describing the state’s environment as both therapeutic and economically valuable. “There is so much to offer on the Plateau. These natural sites provide recreation, healing and opportunities for economic growth through tourism,” she added.
Responding to concerns about poor road access and encroachment around some of the tourist locations, the Commissioner explained that the ongoing assessment will guide the development of policies addressing infrastructure, conservation and community partnerships. “The purpose of this exercise is to gather firsthand information. We are working with consultants, and the findings will help shape policies that include road development and other infrastructure needed to improve access to these sites,” she said.
Also speaking, Architect Joseph Yakwan, Director of Building at the Plateau State Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, said the tourism inspection will support the preparation of the Greater Jos Master Plan. “The Greater Jos Master Plan is being developed by our ministry, and part of our responsibility is to ensure that tourism assets are adequately captured so they can contribute to the city’s future development,” he noted.
At the Riyom Rock Formation, community representative Hon. Terry Davou called on the state government to revitalise the site and restore its status as one of Plateau’s leading tourist attractions. He recalled that the landmark attracted visitors from across Nigeria and abroad during the 1970s and 1980s, contributing significantly to tourism in the area. “This rock has become one of the symbols of Plateau State. Although there are different stories about its origin, what is important today is preserving it and developing it into a world-class tourist destination. Our community will be delighted if government invests in its restoration and promotion,” he said.
This inspection marks the beginning of a broader strategy by the “Time is Now” Administration of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang to integrate tourism development into the Greater Jos Master Plan, protect the state’s natural heritage, and create opportunities that will directly impact our people.
Our administration remains committed to governance that restores pride, protects public assets, and delivers prosperity. The time to act for Plateau is now.
