The Plateau State Government has officially launched the maiden edition of the Plateau State Science, Technology and Innovation Festival (PLASSTIFEST 2026) in Jos. The three-day event, running from today through June 3, aims to connect local innovators and startups with investors while positioning Plateau State as an emerging technology and innovation hub in Nigeria.
The Plateau State Government has commenced the first-ever Plateau State Science, Technology and Innovation Festival (PLASSTIFEST 2026), a major initiative designed to accelerate innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology-driven development within the state.
The festival brings together innovators, startup founders, investors, policymakers, researchers, students, and technology stakeholders to showcase ideas and explore opportunities for collaboration.
A key focus of the event is connecting promising startups and innovators with venture capital providers and funding partners capable of supporting the growth of scalable businesses.
The initiative reflects growing efforts to expand Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem beyond traditional technology centers and create new opportunities for entrepreneurs in emerging regional markets.
PLASSTIFEST 2026 is taking place in Jos, Plateau State, and will run from today through June 3, 2026.
The event is expected to attract participants from across Nigeria, particularly innovators working in sectors with strong relevance to Plateau State’s economy and development priorities.
The festival is organised by the Plateau State Government and is headlined by the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Kingsley Udeh.
Participants include:
Technology startups
Young innovators
Venture capital firms
Academic institutions
Government agencies
Industry leaders
The programme places particular emphasis on startups operating in:
Agriculture technology (AgriTech)
Mining technology (MiningTech)
Education technology (EdTech)
Science and innovation-driven enterprises
The launch of PLASSTIFEST 2026 is significant because it supports efforts to decentralise innovation and entrepreneurship opportunities across Nigeria.
For years, much of Nigeria’s startup funding, incubation programmes, and technology investments have been concentrated in Lagos.
By creating a dedicated innovation festival in Plateau State, the government hopes to attract investment, encourage local talent development, and build a stronger regional technology ecosystem.
The initiative could also help create sustainable jobs by supporting startups capable of solving local challenges through technology and innovation.
For Plateau State, the festival represents an opportunity to strengthen its position as a destination for technology investment and entrepreneurship.
OFFICIAL STATEMENT
Speaking at the event, organisers said PLASSTIFEST 2026 was created to provide a platform where innovation, investment, and entrepreneurship can intersect to drive economic growth.
The festival's focus is on helping young innovators transform ideas into viable businesses while creating stronger links between startups and funding opportunities.
Stakeholders believe the initiative could play a key role in developing a more geographically diverse innovation ecosystem across Nigeria.
The three-day festival includes activities such as:
Startup showcases
Innovation exhibitions
Investor engagement sessions
Technology demonstrations
Networking opportunities
Panel discussions and workshops
Participants will have opportunities to present solutions addressing challenges in agriculture, mining, education, and other sectors important to regional economic development.
The event also aligns with broader national efforts to promote science, technology, and innovation as drivers of economic growth.
PLASSTIFEST 2026 presents significant opportunities for Nigerian innovators and entrepreneurs.
Benefits include:
Access to venture capital and investors
Exposure for startups and new technologies
Networking with industry leaders
Opportunities for partnerships and mentorship
Increased visibility for regional innovation projects
The festival is especially valuable for young entrepreneurs outside Lagos who may have limited access to major startup events and funding networks.
By bringing investors closer to local innovators, the initiative could accelerate startup growth and contribute to job creation across Plateau State and beyond.
Interested innovators, startup founders, and technology enthusiasts should:
Attend festival activities in Jos
Participate in networking and investor sessions
Showcase innovative products and solutions
Engage with potential partners and funding organisations
Event Location: Jos, Plateau State
Eligibility: Open to innovators, startups, students, investors, and technology stakeholders
Registration: APPLY HERE
Event Dates: Running through June 3, 2026
PLASSTIFEST 2026 signals a growing commitment to building innovation ecosystems across Nigeria and creating new pathways for technology-driven economic growth outside traditional startup hubs.