Plateau, Namibia Govt Seal Partnership On Tourism, Livestock Devt

Plateau State government and the Republic of Namibia have commenced high-level discussions to establish a strategic partnership in tourism, mining, wildlife conservation, livestock development, and intra-African trade.

The state governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, hosted the Namibian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Walde Natangwe Ndevashiya, at the New Government House, Rayfield, Jos.

According to a statement issued by the director of Press and Public Affairs, Dr Gyang Bere, the diplomatic engagement, which attracted top government officials and stakeholders despite the public holiday, underscored the state’s growing emergence as a destination for international collaboration and investment.

Speaking during the courtesy visit, the Namibian High Commissioner commended Governor Mutfwang and members of his cabinet for their exceptional commitment to governance and public service.

“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,” the High Commissioner stated.

He described Plateau State as “a true home of peace and tourism,” praising its hospitality, serene climate, and vast tourism potential.

The envoy disclosed that the visit followed directives from the President of Namibia, Her Excellency Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, after discussions with former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo during activities marking the first anniversary of her administration earlier this year.

According to him, Namibia is seeking stronger relationships with Nigerian states, particularly in areas critical to economic diversification and continental integration.

“We are here to move from rhetoric to action. Africa must begin meaningful trade within itself. Plateau State and Namibia can lead that process through practical cooperation in mining, tourism, wildlife development, agriculture, and the creative economy,” he said.

The High Commissioner further revealed that Namibia is considering expanding its premium beef exports to Nigeria, noting that it already exports high-quality beef products to Europe and the United States.

He also highlighted Namibia’s globally recognised expertise in wildlife conservation and fisheries, pledging technical cooperation that could support Plateau State’s ongoing efforts to revitalise its tourism and livestock sectors.

Meanwhile, Governor Mutfwang, in his remarks, described the visit as a significant diplomatic milestone that aligns with his administration’s vision of repositioning Plateau State as a hub for investment, tourism, and economic growth.

The Governor recalled his 2012 visit to Namibia, which exposed him to the country’s globally acclaimed wildlife conservation model and inspired his administration’s renewed commitment to rehabilitating Plateau State’s wildlife park and tourism assets.

“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 expressed optimism that the partnership would yield tangible economic benefits for both parties.

He stressed the importance of African nations strengthening economic ties through intra-African trade, local industrial capacity, and strategic partnerships to reduce over-dependence on foreign economies.

“Africa has enough capacity and resources to build prosperous economies if we look inward and mobilise our strengths effectively. Plateau State is ready to lead the pace in building stronger economic and cultural ties between Nigeria and Namibia,” the Governor declared.

He pledged the full cooperation of the Plateau State Government to facilitate policy coordination, technical exchanges, and investment opportunities to accelerate the implementation of agreements reached during the visit.

Also speaking, former Nigerian Ambassador to Namibia and former Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bagudu Hirse, described Namibia as one of Africa’s most successful tourism and wildlife economies.

He praised President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah for supporting stronger bilateral relations with Nigeria and commended Governor Mutfwang for prioritising strategic international partnerships that can transform Plateau State’s economy.

المصدر: Leadership (Nigeria)