The Plateau Investment and Property Development Company (PIPC) Limited, in collaboration with PLASMIDA and supported by GIZ, hosted the Business Community Dialogue and Dinner at the Banquet Hall, New Government House, Jos. The event brought together government officials, private sector stakeholders, and investors to discuss ways to create a more conducive business environment in Plateau State.
In his welcome address, Mr. Danlami Jelka, MD/CEO of PIPC Ltd, emphasized the need for government-business collaboration to address challenges, implement sustainable reforms, and promote inclusive growth. Structured into panel discussions, stakeholder presentations, and remarks by Governor Caleb Mutfwang, the dialogue aimed to align policies with business needs and unlock the state’s economic potential.
Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, addressing stakeholders at the Business Community Dialogue and Dinner, emphasized his administration’s unwavering commitment to fostering economic growth and creating a sustainable future for Plateau State. He acknowledged the significant contributions of the business community in driving development and expressed gratitude for their resilience despite challenges.
Highlighting Plateau’s potential, he outlined strategies to boost key sectors like agriculture, energy, and transportation. Plans include expanding commodity markets, promoting innovative farming techniques, and encouraging agro-processing to position Plateau as a national and global food hub. He emphasized the importance of unlocking arable land, improving storage facilities, and developing crop-specific champions to maximize agricultural output.
On energy, the governor announced ongoing reforms, including upgrading infrastructure, developing mini-grids, and revitalizing NESCO to provide stable and sustainable power for businesses. Transportation initiatives include subsidized services and rural road construction under the RAM initiative to improve market access.
Governor Mutfwang also stressed the need for public-private collaboration, local content promotion, and restructured tax systems to increase internally generated revenue. He reaffirmed his vision for a self-reliant Plateau State, urging stakeholders to remain committed to partnerships that will overcome challenges and build a resilient economy.
He concluded with festive wishes and optimism for a prosperous Plateau State in the coming year.
The Secretary to the Government of Plateau State, Architect Sam Jatau presented the state’s economic outlook, noting its ₦2.4 trillion GDP driven by agriculture, trade, tourism, and MSMEs, which employ over 70% of the workforce. Despite growth constraints, the government has introduced reforms, including digitalization of services, infrastructure investments, and financial support for small businesses.
Business stakeholders, including Multi Choice, Kefiano Motors, and Hamtul Printing Press, identified key challenges such as unstable electricity, multiple taxation, and low government patronage. Mr. Akin Omoare of GIZ provided insights into creating a more profitable business environment, emphasizing innovation and collaboration.
The event featured a robust panel discussion with representatives from key government agencies, including the Plateau State Ministry of Justice, PLASMIDA, and JMDB, who shared achievements and future plans to bolster business growth. Governor Mutfwang reaffirmed his vision for a resilient, self-reliant Plateau State and urged continued partnership to overcome challenges.
The evening concluded with a call to action for sustained collaboration between the government and private sector to drive Plateau State’s economic transformation.
