News Room Tourism stakeholders in Plateau State have expressed concerns over the recent appointment of the Commissioner for Tourism, Culture, and Hospitality, questioning the government’s commitment to developing the sector.
In a recent cabinet reshuffle, Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, appointed Cornelius Doeyok, a native of Qua’an Pan Local Government Area in Plateau State, has been appointed as the new Commissioner for Tourism, Culture, and Hospitality. In his new role, Doeyok is expected to oversee the identification, development, preservation, documentation, and promotion of the state’s tourism resources, arts, and cultural heritage.
In an open letter to the Plateau State Government, tourism promoter Ephraim Freezle highlighted the importance of expertise in steering the industry forward. He noted that while the appointment was not a critique of the individual’s integrity, their lack of experience in tourism could hinder progress.
“Tourism is a highly specialised sector that demands expertise, industry knowledge, and strategic planning,” Freezle wrote. “Assigning someone without relevant tourism experience will limit the sector’s progress.”
Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s administration has made strides in agriculture, urban development, security, infrastructure, and investment promotion. However, Freezle argued that the tourism sector had not been given the professional leadership and strategic attention required.
Plateau State, known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has long been recognised for its tourism potential. But realising this potential, Freezle contended, demands leadership with a track record in state, national, or international tourism development.
“The previous appointment of Jamila Tukur as Commissioner for Tourism showed limited sectoral progress, largely due to a lack of industry experience,” he noted. “Unfortunately, there is concern that this new appointment may follow a similar trajectory.”
Freezle also pointed out a pattern in the government’s selection process, noting that both the former and newly appointed tourism commissioners hail from Quan’Pan Local Government. He questioned whether these appointments were driven by political considerations rather than merit.
“Domestic tourism is a multi-billion naira industry with the potential to boost Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), create jobs, attract investment, and position Plateau as Nigeria’s leading travel destination,” he said. “But this can only happen when the sector is treated as a professional industry, not a political portfolio.”
A review of the newly appointed commissioner’s background, Freezle stated, showed no history of involvement in tourism development, destination marketing, or strategic planning—raising doubts about the likelihood of meaningful transformation.
Doeyok has previously served as a state lawmaker, representing Plateau State in the legislature, and was one of the lawmakers under the ruling Peoples Democratic Party who were sacked by the Appeal Court. In addition to his political career, he has worked as a Trade Activation Manager at Guinness Nigeria and as a Relationship Manager at Stanbic Bank, with an academic and research background in public policy and political science.
He called on the Plateau State Government to reconsider its approach to tourism governance and ensure that leadership positions in the sector are entrusted to professionals with the expertise and vision to drive growth.
“This submission is not political criticism but a genuine call for strategic action to secure the future of Plateau’s tourism industry,” he added.
