Plateau State: Nigeria’s Tourism, Untapped Potential and The Struggle for Peace – Imagine a place where the air is crisp, the landscapes are breathtaking, and history whispers through ancient rocks. Welcome to Plateau State, Nigeria’s “Home of Peace and Tourism.” Nestled in the heart of the Middle Belt, this state is a mesmerizing blend of natural wonders, diverse cultures, and untapped economic opportunities.
But Plateau State is more than just picturesque scenery—it’s a land of contrasts. While it boasts serene waterfalls, wildlife reserves, and rich mineral deposits, it also faces challenges like communal conflicts and underdeveloped tourism. So, what makes Plateau State truly unique? Why should investors, tourists, and adventure seekers pay attention?
In this deep dive, we’ll explore Plateau’s geography, history, tourism potential, conflicts, and future prospects. Whether you’re a traveler, investor, or just curious about Nigeria’s hidden treasures, this guide will give you an insider’s look at one of the country’s most fascinating states.
Geography: Where Nature Paints Its Masterpiece
A Land of Granite and Green
Plateau State is named after the Jos Plateau, an elevated region with stunning rock formations, rolling hills, and deep valleys. The altitude ranges from 1,200 meters to 1,829 meters above sea level, giving it a near-temperate climate—a rare escape from Nigeria’s typical tropical heat.
The state is bordered by:
- Bauchi (Northeast)
- Kaduna (Northwest)
- Nasarawa (Southwest)
- Taraba (Southeast)
Climate: Nigeria’s “Little England”
Thanks to its elevation, Plateau enjoys cooler temperatures (13–22°C) and lower humidity. The Harmattan winds (December–February) bring chilly mornings, while March and April are the warmest months. Rainfall peaks between July and August, feeding rivers like the Kaduna, Gongola, and Hadeja.
Read: Plateau Governor Declares War on Killings, Unveils Tough New Security Measures
Geological Wealth: A Miner’s Paradise
Plateau’s landscape was shaped by volcanic activity over 50 million years ago, leaving behind tin, columbite, and other minerals. Decades of mining have carved deep gorges and lakes, adding to its rugged beauty.
Tourism: Nigeria’s Best-Kept Secret
Wildlife Safari Park – A Walk on the Wild Side
Located just 4 km from Jos, this 8 km² savanna reserve is home to lions, elephants, and rare bird species. It’s a must-visit for nature lovers.
Assop Falls – Nature’s Staircase
This breathtaking waterfall, about 64 km from Jos, is a favorite for filmmakers and photographers. The cascading waters against lush greenery make it a perfect getaway.
Wase Rock – Africa’s Pelican Sanctuary
Rising 450 meters high, this inselberg is one of only five white pelican breeding sites in Africa. The surrounding 321-acre sanctuary protects these rare birds.
Shere Hills – Hiker’s Paradise
For adrenaline junkies, the Shere Hills offer rock climbing and panoramic views of Jos. It’s the highest point in the state, standing at 1,829 meters.
National Museum & Traditional Architecture Village
Step back in time with Nok terracotta artifacts (500 BC–200 AD) and life-size replicas of traditional Nigerian homes.
Natural Resources: The Untapped Goldmine
Plateau is sitting on a fortune:
- Tin & Columbite (once the backbone of Nigeria’s mining industry)
- Bauxite, Barite, Lead, Zinc, and Marble
- Emeralds, Topaz, and Tantalite
Yet, despite these riches, mining remains underdeveloped due to poor infrastructure and security concerns.
Plateau State Snapshot
- Total land area: 27,147 Km2
- Capital: Jos
- Local Government Areas: 17 LGAs: Jos North, Jos South, Jos East, Bassa, Kanam, Barakin Ladi, Quai’an-Pam, Wase, Langtang North, Langtang South, Pankshin, Shendam, Riyom, Mikang, Kanke, Mangu and Bokkos.
- Population: 4,433,501 (Male- 2,261,086 and Female- 2,172,416)
- Vegetation: Tropical Savannah
- Major crops: Maize Guinea Corn, Cassava, Yam, Grain, Cow Peas, Rice, Fonios Acha, Monumental Crops, Mango, Straw Berries, Flowers. Vegetables, Tomatoes, Onion, Cabbage, Carrot, Cucumber.
- Solid minerals: Tin, Columbite, Lead, Coal, Clay, Kaolin, Marble, Gemstone, Barytes and Zinc.
Main Investment Opportunities
Opportunities for investment exist in:
- Agribusiness
- Light Manufacturing
- Healthcare
- Tourism
- Mining
History & Conflicts: The Struggle for Peace
From Colonial Rule to Statehood
- 1926: British carved Plateau out of Bauchi Province.
- 1967: Merged with Benue to form Benue-Plateau State.
- 1976: Became a standalone state.
- 1996: Lost its western half to form Nasarawa State.
21st Century: A Battleground of Ethnic Tensions
Plateau has faced violent clashes between:
- Farmers vs. Herders (over land and resources)
- Ethnic militias (reprisal attacks)
- Boko Haram & Bandit Incursions
In 2023 alone, over 200 people were killed in attacks. While often framed as religious or ethnic conflicts, the root causes include:
✔ Climate change (shrinking grazing lands)
✔ Political neglect
✔ Economic inequality
Recent Overnight Attack on Plateau Community
At least 40 people have been killed after armed men stormed Zike community in the Kwall district of Bassa Local Government Area, Plateau State, in North-central Nigeria. The brutal assault began shortly after midnight on Monday, 14 April, and lasted nearly two hours, leaving dozens dead, homes in ruins, and survivors in mourning.
Joseph Chudu Yonkpa, National Publicity Secretary of the Irigwe Youth Movement (IYM), a local youth organisation, confirmed the incident to HumAngle. He said many of the injured are receiving treatment at the Jos University Teaching Hospital and other nearby medical facilities.
“There is outrage in the land at the moment,” Yonkpa told HumAngle.
IYM said hours before the attack, it had raised the alarm about a potential threat, alerting residents and security operatives stationed there. However, despite the warning, the gunmen were neither intercepted nor confronted during the assault. “The security people only showed up this morning,” he added.
HumAngle reached out to Alfred Alubo, the spokesperson of the Plateau State Police Command, for comment, but he did not respond.
Kwall, located about an hour’s drive from Jos, the Plateau State capital, is also home to the Nigerian College of Accountancy, an educational institution managed by the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria.
The community has faced a spate of violent incidents in recent weeks. Over the past month alone, at least ten people have been killed in separate attacks across Bassa, some while tending to their farms, others ambushed on the road. The pattern, residents say, is disturbingly familiar.
Despite these challenges, Plateau remains resilient, with its people striving for lasting peace.
Government & Economy: Pathways to Progress
Leadership & Administration
- Governor: Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang (since May 2023)
- 17 Local Government Areas (LGAs)
- Key Economic Drivers: Agriculture, Mining, Tourism
Education: A Hub of Learning
Plateau hosts prestigious institutions like:
- University of Jos
- Plateau State University
- Federal College of Education, Pankshin
Final Thoughts: Will Plateau Rise Again?
Plateau State is a land of contradictions—stunning yet troubled, rich yet underdeveloped. Its tourism potential is enormous, but security and infrastructure must improve. Its mineral wealth could drive Nigeria’s economy, but investment and regulation are lacking.
The question is: Can Plateau overcome its challenges and reclaim its title as Nigeria’s “Home of Peace and Tourism”?
For now, one thing is certain—Plateau State is a hidden gem waiting to shine.
What’s Next?
- Tourists: Visit before the world discovers it.
- Investors: Explore untapped mining and agribusiness.
- Government: Prioritize peace and infrastructure.
The future of Plateau lies in unity, development, and sustainable growth. Will it rise to the occasion? Only time will tell.
