As the festive season reaches its peak, Plateau State is positioning itself as Nigeria’s premier Christmas destination. The Plateau Tourism Corporation has announced ambitious plans for a major 10-day family funfair in Jos, with projections of attracting 20,000 visitors. This initiative represents a strategic pivot to capture a share of the lucrative global Christmas tourism market, which generates billions of dollars annually.
Mr. Chuwang Pwajok, General Manager of the Plateau Tourism Corporation, provided detailed insights in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN). The event, which commenced on Sunday, December 21st, will run through New Year’s Eve, December 31st, 2025.
Beyond a Single Event: A Strategic Rebranding of Plateau
Pwajok emphasized that the funfair is not an isolated occurrence but a cornerstone of a broader strategy. “This event is designed to project Plateau, especially Jos, as Nigeria’s preferred Christmas holiday destination,” he stated. The move aligns with the state governor’s declaration of December as ‘Plateau Tourism Month,’ a policy aimed at creating sustained, tourism-driven economic activity beyond the festive period.
The vision extends to changing national perceptions. For years, headlines from Plateau have often been dominated by security challenges. This festival is a concerted effort to rebrand the state as a “safe, vibrant, and welcoming destination” for leisure, leveraging its natural cool climate and renowned hospitality.
Economic Catalyst and Community Ownership
The anticipated influx of 20,000 tourists is expected to create significant economic ripple effects. Pwajok highlighted the direct benefits for the local economy:
- Hospitality Boost: Hotels, guest houses, and resorts are likely to see full occupancy.
- Entrepreneurial Opportunities: Local vendors, food sellers, artisans, and transport operators will experience increased demand.
- Revenue Generation: The state expects enhanced internally generated revenue (IGR) from tourism-related taxes and fees.
A critical long-term objective is sustainability. “We expect citizens, corporate organisations, and the private sector to gradually take ownership of this festival,” Pwajok explained. The design philosophy is for the event to become a cultural institution that “outlives any administration,” ensuring it is a community asset rather than a government project. This is evidenced by private individuals and organizations already organizing complementary events across the state.
What Visitors Can Expect: A Family-Centric Experience
The Jos Family Funfair is curated as an all-day, family-friendly experience. Activities are designed to offer opportunities for relaxation and bonding. While specific details were broad, Pwajok mentioned “heavy entertainment, including live bands at night.” Typically, such fairs in this context could include:
- Amusement rides and games for children.
- Cultural performances and carol concerts.
- Food courts showcasing local Plateau delicacies and festive treats.
- Arts and crafts markets for holiday shopping.
- Photography spots with festive decorations.
Leveraging Natural Endowments for Lasting Impact
Plateau State is famously blessed with breathtaking tourist sites—from the Wase Rock and Riyom Rock Formation to the Shere Hills and Kurra Falls. This funfair acts as a gateway, introducing visitors to Jos who may then extend their stay to explore these natural wonders. The goal is to create a holistic tourism circuit where festive events and natural attractions reinforce each other, enhancing Plateau’s image nationally and internationally as a year-round destination.
If successful, the 2025 Jos Family Funfair could mark a turning point, demonstrating how Nigerian states can strategically develop niche tourism markets. By focusing on family, safety, and festive cheer, Plateau is not just hosting a party; it is making a calculated investment in its economic future and national reputation. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
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Edited by Peter Amine
