Odo Akaji

PLATEAU STATE: RECLAIMING OUR TOURISM POTENTIAL THROUGH NATIONAL UNITY, A SECURE ENVIRONMENT, AND INCLUSION Today, Tuesday, 10th November 2026, I arrived in Jos, Plateau State, as part of our ongoing nationwide series of town hall meetings. During our visit to Jos, we paid a courtesy call on the highly respected Gbong Gwom Jos, His Royal Majesty, Da (Dr.) Jacob Gyang Buba, CFR. We briefed him on our town hall meeting in Plateau State, which was convened to engage with our people and gain a deeper understanding of their most urgent concerns. His Royal Majesty received us warmly, offered his prayers and wise counsel, and expressed his hopes for a successful programme. He reaffirmed that traditional rulers serve as fathers to everyone and called for peace, mutual respect, and harmonious coexistence as the next elections draw near. Following our visit to the palace, I proceeded to Rhythm 93.7 FM Jos, where I participated in an interview programme. We discussed the challenges confronting our beloved country, Nigeria, as well as the plans Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and I have developed to address these issues decisively when elected into office. I also visited the section of Terminus Market that was destroyed by fire several months ago. There, I spoke with business owners, traders, sellers, and buyers to learn firsthand how they were coping and rebuilding amid the prevailing economic conditions. I assured them that, under our leadership, we would work to ease the devastating economic hardship that the current administration’s policies have inflicted on Nigerians. At our town hall meeting, participants brought forward several pressing concerns, including the worsening security situation in Plateau State, safeguarding the integrity of the vote, youth unemployment, and access to financing for small businesses. One participant living with a disability also asked how our administration plans to support vulnerable groups and persons living with disabilities. In response, I stressed that fulfilling our plans for Nigeria would first require us to secure the nation and unite our people behind a shared purpose. In particular, I assured the people of Plateau State that we would confront insecurity decisively and enable citizens displaced by violence who are currently residing in IDP camps to return safely to their communities. To our brothers and sisters living with disabilities, I reaffirmed our commitment to their care, inclusion, and wellbeing. A nation’s true measure of compassion is found in the way it treats its most vulnerable citizens. I also reiterated that Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and I are committed to making substantial investments in vital areas of development, especially healthcare and education, while lifting our people out of poverty. In conclusion, I recalled the time when Jos and Plateau State more broadly ranked among the foremost tourism destinations for Nigerians and visitors from around the world. I reaffirmed our determination to revive the state’s tourism potential and restore it to its rightful place of prominence. I extend my special appreciation to His Royal Majesty, the Gbong Gwom Jos, for his gracious hospitality, prayers, and valuable counsel. I also commend our dedicated party faithful in Plateau State for organising this program, as well as the people of Plateau State for their participation, warmth, and hospitality. A New Nigeria is POssible, and Nigeria will be OK! -PO