Jos, March 25, 2025 – The Plateau Special Day celebration at the ongoing Jos National Trade Fair was a grand occasion, attracting top government officials, local government chairmen, business leaders, and investors. The event, held at Jos Polo Field, highlighted Plateau State’s economic potential and investment opportunities.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang, represented by his Special Adviser on Special Duties and former Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Istifanus Mwansat, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to economic growth, innovation, and technology-driven development.
Speaking on behalf of the governor, Mwansat emphasized that trade fairs serve as a melting pot for innovation, collaboration, and business expansion. He noted that this year’s theme, “Driving Innovation and Technology to Unlock Hidden Potentials of MSMEs,” aligns with the government’s strategy to support Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Key initiatives highlighted by the governor’s representative include:
Duncan Fertilizer Blending Plant in Barkin Ladi, aimed at boosting agricultural productivity.
Plans for an international market to attract investors and enhance commerce.
Establishment of a Commodity Marketing Board to regulate agricultural trade and ensure fair pricing.
Ongoing road construction and rehabilitation projects to improve business operations.
Procurement of digital buses to modernize urban transport.
Plans to develop an international fresh food market to position Plateau as a commercial hub.
Governor Mutfwang also stressed the state’s tourism potential, announcing partnerships to revamp key attractions such as Hill Station Hotel, Plateau Hotel, and the Wildlife Park. In addition, he revealed plans to provide free internet services from JD Gomwalk House to support e-commerce and the digital economy.
“The time to invest in Plateau is now. Our doors are wide open, our policies are investor-friendly, and our resources remain untapped. I urge investors to seize the boundless opportunities Plateau has to offer,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, Hajiya Kadija, Permanent Secretary of the Nasarawa State Ministry of Trade and Investment, showcased Nasarawa’s industrial and agricultural strengths. She highlighted the state’s rich lithium deposits, emphasizing that the government has established processing industries rather than allowing raw lithium exports.
“Nasarawa is known for lithium, and we have ensured that investors establish lithium processing plants in the state. Today, we have industries that produce lithium batteries for automobiles, industrial, and domestic use,” she said.
She also highlighted the state’s strength in sesame seed farming, inviting investors to explore business opportunities in the sector.
The President of the Plateau Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (PLACCIMA), Elder Bulus Dareng, called for the establishment of a permanent trade fair site in Plateau State. He lamented that despite promises from past administrations, no permanent venue had been provided.
“We will engage the Governor and other stakeholders to ensure that industries are established in Plateau. The Governor has shown commitment, and I strongly believe that in the next one or two years, we will hold our trade fairs at a government-provided permanent site,” he said.
The Jos National Trade Fair continues, with the closing ceremony scheduled for Saturday, March 29, 2025, and final activities concluding on Sunday, March 30. The event remains a crucial platform for business networking, investment discussions, and showcasing the economic potential of Plateau State and beyond.
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