The Chairman Organizing Committee of Plateau State 2016 Carnival, Eric Takon, has underscored the role of the tourism sector as a valuable and sustainable source of livelihood for millions of citizens of the State.
Takon disclosed this during the inauguration of the committee for the 2016 Plateau State Peace Carnival.
The inauguration was held at the Plateau State Ministry of Tourism.
Takon encouraged the people to add their voices to various calls made across the state on the need for the Plateau State Government to put greater emphasis on the development of its tourism sector.
According to him: “The Corporation under Governor Simon Lalong administration is leaving no stone unturned to ensure practical development and promotion of domestic tourism, which will propel job creation, develop the state’s economy and raise social awareness on cultural preservation and environment protection.
He expressed optimism that with the return of peace to Plateau State and its environ, the federal and state governments stand to improve internal revenue generation through the tourism sector.
Tanks said: “Plateau State has a better advantage over so many other states to benefit from tourism.
“We have the advantage of weather and population.
“Tourism contributes 50 per cent to the global GDP but as at now, Plateau State is going to be benefiting from tourism with festival organized to sensitize people.
“I need to emphasize that Plateau has the best of the ingredients of tourism.
“We have fascinating tourist sites, enviable cultural festivals, good weather, good and hospitable people.”
The Commissioner for Tourism in Plateau State, Hon. Peter Mwankon, said the Jos carnival committee has the primary purpose of planning, developing and delivering high quality carnival and using the underlying values as a vehicle to engage and advance community cohesion to drive tourism.