The Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) has partnered with the Plateau Hikers and Tour Association (PHATA) to promote tourism awareness among Nigerian youths.
Mrs. Ruth Ndam, Director of the Humanitarian Technology Transfer (HTT) Department at NTDA, represented the Director-General at the event. She emphasized that the partnership aims to create awareness and encourage Nigerian youths to embrace tourism through campaigns.
During the closing ceremony of a hike in parts of Plateau State, Mrs. Ndam noted that hiking is an excellent way to discover the state’s tourism potential. “Plateau State, blessed with mountains, valleys, and waterfalls, is the hiking hub of Nigeria and has produced the first and only hikers association in the country.”
The Chairperson of PHATA and Zonal Coordinator of NTDA, Mrs. Nanna Dashe Yakubu, appreciated the efforts of trustees, hikers, patrons, and collaborators who supported PHATA in achieving a successful hike and ending the 2024 season. She announced that a training program would be organized in the first quarter of 2025 to upskill all hikers.
The 2024 hike, which covered six kilometers, attracted 210 hikers who climbed Maza hills and enjoyed a picnic at the waterfalls. The hikers were entertained with food, drinks, and snacks. PHATA also donated toiletries, soap, petroleum jelly, and sanitary towels to the local Maza community.
PHATA appreciated the support of its patrons, including Dr. Jim Wayas, Chairman of the Plateau State Internal Revenue Service, and Dr. Muhammed Yusuf, General Manager of the Bauchi State Tourism Development Corporation/Yankari, with gifts.
The hikers were entertained with food, drinks, and snacks. PHATA also donated toiletries, soap, petroleum jelly, and sanitary towels to the local Maza community.
