The Plateau State Government and the Republic of Namibia have begun discussions on a strategic partnership covering tourism, mining, wildlife conservation, livestock development and intra-African trade.
- +Plateau, Namibia explore tourism, mining, livestock partnership
The talks took place on Thursday when the Namibian High Commissioner to Nigeria, H.E.
The talks took place on Thursday when the Namibian High Commissioner to Nigeria, H.E. Walde Natangwe Ndevashiya, visited Governor Caleb Mutfwang at the New Government House, Rayfield, Jos.
The meeting brought together senior government officials and stakeholders, despite the public holiday, which both sides said reflected a strong commitment to governance and cooperation.
Ndevashiya commended the state government’s engagement, noting that the level of attendance demonstrated seriousness about development partnerships.
“I did not expect to meet such a large gathering of leaders, especially on a public holiday when many would ordinarily be with their families.
“Your presence here is a strong demonstration of commitment to service, and we are impressed by what we have seen,” he stated.
He described Plateau State as “a true home of peace and tourism,” noting its hospitality, favourable climate, and significant tourism potential.
According to him, Namibia is seeking to expand cooperation with Nigerian states in key sectors including mining, tourism, agriculture, wildlife management and the creative economy.
“We are here to move from rhetoric to action. Africa must begin to trade meaningfully with itself. Plateau State and Namibia can lead that process through practical cooperation in mining, tourism, wildlife development, agriculture, and the creative economy,” Ndevashiya said.
Mutfwang described the engagement as a milestone in efforts to position Plateau State as a destination for investment and tourism development.
He recalled a 2012 visit to Namibia, saying it influenced his administration’s interest in adopting best practices in wildlife conservation and tourism development.
“When we began to think seriously about rebuilding and enhancing our wildlife park, Namibia naturally came to mind because of the remarkable success they have achieved in conservation and tourism,” the governor said.
Mutfwang said Africa has the capacity to build strong economies through intra-African trade and strategic partnerships, adding that Plateau State was ready to take advantage of such collaborations.
He pledged the state’s readiness to support policy coordination and investment frameworks that would translate the discussions into concrete projects.
Also speaking, former Nigerian Ambassador to Namibia and former Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bagudu Hirse, described Namibia as a strong model in tourism and wildlife management, and commended efforts to deepen bilateral relations.
He also praised Mutfwang for pursuing international partnerships aimed at boosting Plateau State’s economy.
