Jos Hosts Miss & Mister Tourism Africa International, Spotlighting Continental Unity and Creative To

The city of Jos in Plateau State has firmly placed itself on the map of Africa’s premier event destinations by hosting the Miss and Mister Tourism Africa International 2025 World Finals. This high-profile gathering drew contestants from 23 African nations, transforming Jos into a vibrant epicentre of culture, creativity, and tourism advocacy.

Orchestrated in partnership with the Plateau State Government under Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s stewardship, the event signalled Jos’s growing stature as a go-to location for continental events. The city’s cool climate, breathtaking scenery, and signature hospitality have long attracted visitors, but its successful stewardship of this international pageant has cemented its place as Nigeria’s “tourism hub.”

The competition saw Reyna Amboorallee of Mauritius crowned Miss Tourism Africa International 2025, captivating the judges with her poise, intelligence, and passionate advocacy for sustainable tourism. Neolin Jacob from Botswana and Margaret Abbah from Nigeria secured the first and second runner-up positions, reflecting the diversity and depth of talent across Africa’s tourism ambassadors.

In the men’s category, Ednilton Delgado Da Cruz Silva of Cape Verde clinched the Mister Tourism Africa International 2025 title. He was closely followed by Takunda Ryan Chitope of Zimbabwe and Nigeria’s Evans Ezekiel as first and second runners-up. The event also honoured Jenna Decastel of Gabon and Zamzam Godana of Kenya as Miss Tourism Africa International Ambassadors in recognition of their leadership and commitment to uplifting Africa’s tourism profile.

Beyond the glamour, the finals showcased Jos as a microcosm of Africa’s potential for hosting world-class gatherings that blend tradition with modernity. Local businesses experienced an economic uplift as visitors explored the region’s natural beauty, sampled its cuisine, and engaged with its heritage. The event gave the Plateau State economy a visible boost, reinforcing its moniker as the “Home of Peace and Tourism.”

The World Finals were more than a beauty pageant—they became a powerful platform for continental storytelling and collaboration. Ambassador Santiago Roberts, Founder and President of the Miss and Mister Tourism Africa International Organisation, emphasized that the initiative is anchored in “tourism, talent, and trade.” He articulated a vision where Africa’s youth, culture, and innovation are at the forefront of a new narrative: “This platform was built to give Africa a voice—one that speaks through our youth, our culture, and our innovation. Every contestant here represents a living story of Africa’s potential. Through tourism, we’re not just showcasing destinations; we’re showcasing who we are and who we can become.”

Roberts’ message resonated strongly with industry leaders and policymakers. He called for deeper partnerships among African governments and the private sector, urging a shift toward a unified, continent-wide approach to developing the tourism sector. “It’s time for a continental effort. If our governments and corporate partners join hands, Africa can rise as the world’s most preferred tourism destination. The beauty, the stories, the people—everything the world is seeking is already here.”

The event’s success in Jos has wider implications for Africa’s travel industry. It highlights the power of creative events in driving destination branding, boosting local economies, and fostering regional integration. By leveraging the energy and vision of young tourism leaders, Africa can tell its own story—one that is aspirational, inclusive, and firmly rooted in the continent’s rich heritage and future possibilities.

For Jos and Plateau State, hosting the finals provided not only international exposure but also a practical demonstration of what investment in event tourism can achieve. Visitors left with memories of stunning landscapes, cultural performances, and the warmth of local hospitality, while local stakeholders gained valuable experience in event management and cross-cultural engagement.

As the 2025 World Finals drew to a close, the spirit of unity and optimism was palpable. The event ended with a call for African nations to harness their collective creative and tourism potential, reinforcing the notion that when Africa stands together, it can command the world’s attention for all the right reasons. The success of Jos is a timely reminder that the continent’s future as a tourism powerhouse rests not only on its destinations, but also on its ability to tell compelling stories and create unforgettable experiences through collaboration and innovation.