Plateau State Unveils PLASSTIFEST 2026: A Bold Leap Toward Tech-Driven Economic Revival

Timescope News 

The Plateau State Government has announced the launch of the maiden edition of the Plateau State Science, Technology and Innovation Festival (PLASSTIFEST), a major initiative aimed at positioning the state as a leading hub for innovation, entrepreneurship and technological advancement in Nigeria.

Speaking during a press briefing at the NUJ Press Centre, Jos, the Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Cletus Bako Shurkuk, said the festival will take place from June 1 to 3, 2026, at Crispan Suites and Event Centre, Jos.

According to the commissioner, PLASSTIFEST is designed to showcase the creativity and ingenuity of the people of Plateau, connect innovators with investors, and create opportunities for sustainable economic development.

"This festival is not merely an event; it is a landmark initiative to showcase Plateau's creativity, connect innovators with investors, and chart a bold path toward a smarter, more sustainable future," Shurkuk said.

He noted that Plateau State faces challenges in education, agriculture, mining, youth unemployment, and infrastructure development, but stressed that these challenges also present opportunities for innovation-driven solutions.

The festival, themed "Reimagining Plateau: Driving Innovation and Technology for a Smarter and Sustainable Future," seeks to encourage citizens—especially young people—to embrace science and technology as tools for development and economic transformation.

Shurkuk said the initiative aligns with Governor Caleb Mutfwang's vision of empowering citizens through innovation and building a productive economy driven by creativity and technology.

"The time is now to change the narrative of Plateau State: to move from dependency to creativity, from consumption to production, and from challenges to opportunities," he stated.

The commissioner disclosed that the festival will feature exhibitions by local innovators and startups, keynote presentations, panel discussions, innovation awards, and networking sessions aimed at linking innovators with investors, mentors, and development partners.

He also revealed that the event will attract key federal government officials, including the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, as well as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI).

According to Shurkuk, the participation of federal agencies and development partners is expected to strengthen Plateau's innovation ecosystem and attract investments into the state.

He explained that PLASSTIFEST is not a one-off event but the beginning of a year-long programme that will include mentorship initiatives, innovation support programmes, and community outreach activities to sustain a culture of innovation across the state.

Describing the festival as a movement to create a new identity for Plateau State beyond its natural attractions, he said it aims to position the state as a centre of excellence in science, technology, and innovation.

The commissioner called on students, entrepreneurs, researchers, small and medium-scale enterprises, investors, and policymakers to participate actively in the festival, noting that it offers a platform for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and business growth.

He expressed appreciation to Governor Caleb Mutfwang for supporting the initiative and providing opportunities for young innovators to showcase their talents, while also thanking partners and sponsors for contributing to the programme's success.

Shurkuk urged young people across the state to seize the opportunity presented by PLASSTIFEST to showcase their ideas and innovations, emphasizing that their creativity has the power to transform Plateau State and secure a brighter future for generations to come.