Plateau Assembly calls for PLAFEST revival, highlighting its role in boosting tourism, revenue, and cultural unity in the state.

The Plateau State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Gabriel Dewan, has called for the revival and sustained celebration of the Plateau Festival of Arts and Culture (PLAFEST).

The resolution was adopted during a plenary session in Jos on Tuesday, following a motion by Mr Nanbol Daniel, representing Langtang North Central Constituency.

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Daniel emphasised that Plateau State is rich in tourist attractions across all its local government areas, which, if effectively harnessed, could reposition it as Nigeria’s premier tourist destination.

He argued that revitalising PLAFEST would not only showcase the state’s cultural heritage but also enhance its internally generated revenue, reducing reliance on federal allocations.

“The annual celebration of PLAFEST will attract and motivate tourists from across the globe to experience and consume the state’s tangible and intangible cultural attractions and products,” Daniel said.

He highlighted several benefits of PLAFEST, including its potential to:

– Promote peace and social justice, uniting the people of Plateau and Nigeria as a whole.
– Showcase the state’s diverse cultural heritage and tourist attractions.
– Garner international support to strengthen cultural tourism policies and frameworks.
– Foster economic development that benefits local communities.

Daniel suggested that the state government consider hosting PLAFEST in December 2024 or the first quarter of 2025. He also urged adequate funding for the festival and subsequent celebrations to ensure sustainability.

To amplify the festival’s impact, the legislator proposed designating a PLAFEST week where public and civil servants would wear traditional attire to further promote the state’s cultural richness.

Daniel expressed confidence that PLAFEST would attract global attention, motivating tourists to visit and strengthening Plateau State’s identity as a cultural and tourism hub. The House unanimously supported the motion, calling on the government to act swiftly to implement the resolution.

This initiative represents a significant step towards preserving Plateau State’s cultural heritage while boosting economic growth through tourism.