By 
By Nana Theresa Timothy
Jos, the Plateau State capital, became the heartbeat of innovation over the weekend as it hosted DevFest Jos 2025, the largest gathering of developers, tech enthusiasts, and problem-solvers across Nigeria. Organized under the umbrella of Google Developer Groups (GDG), the annual festival brought together experts, startups, and community leaders to explore how technology can unlock Plateau’s potential in tourism, creativity, and entrepreneurship.
With a theme focused on “Building Plateau’s Tourism, Technology, and Talent to Scale Globally,” this year’s edition was not just about technology, but also about positioning Plateau State as a hub of innovation that can compete on a global stage.
RELATED: SeerBit lights up DevFest Lagos 2024, showcasing innovation and commitment to developers
A Gathering of Builders and Innovators
Loreta Tohomdet, The Lead Organizer, GDG Jos, Delivering the welcome address at the Devfest Jos 2025
The event opened with a welcome address from Loreta Tohomdet, GDG Jos Lead Organizer, who emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for young developers and innovators in Plateau State. She described DevFest as more than just a conference, but as a movement that empowers local communities with global knowledge.
She also appreciated sponsors; Kora-Dickson Nsofor and Startup Lab-Moses Amama for their massive support towards DevFest2025
Participants experienced a blend of activities including:
- Technical talks from Google experts and industry leaders
- Hands-on codelabs and workshops designed to sharpen skills
- Live demos showcasing solutions built with Google technologies
- Networking opportunities with developers, startups, and tech community leaders
Whether beginners or seasoned developers, attendees left with new skills, connections, and ideas.
Sponsors Driving Innovation
DevFest Jos 2025 was proudly supported by Kora and Startup Lab, two key organizations committed to empowering Africa’s tech ecosystem.
These sponsors enabled DevFest offer participants high-quality workshops, hands-on sessions, and networking opportunities, reinforcing the festival’s mission to equip developers with the tools, knowledge, and connections needed to thrive. Their support highlighted the importance of collaboration between tech communities and organizations invested in Africa’s growth.
Keynote and Featured Speakers
The keynote address was delivered by Sodiq Akinjoba, Google Developer Ecosystem Community Manager. He underscored the transformative power of technology, urging participants to build solutions that not only solve local problems but can also scale globally.
Other speakers included Johnstone Kpilaakaa, Daser David (President, Digital Bridge Institute), Samuel Gwott, Moses Amama, and Kefiano Kefas Ropshik. Collectively, their presentations touched on the future of digital economies, the importance of collaboration, and how Plateau’s growing tech ecosystem can drive job creation.
Panel Session One: Tech for Tourism
The first panel session, moderated by Nana Theresa Timothy, centered on the theme: “Building Plateau’s Tourism and Scaling It Globally Through Technology.”
Panelists included:
- Tabitha Hris (HrisHub Int.)
- Longji Theodore (nHub Nigeria)
- Datong Dominic Gwaman (PICTDA)
- Stephen Sunday Kusu (PLATEC)
- Timothy Kunat (Founder, Discover Jos)
Discussions revealed how Plateau’s rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and unique identity as the “Home of Peace and Tourism” could be amplified through technology. For instance, ideas included creating tourism apps for booking experiences, in addition, deploying virtual reality platforms to showcase scenic locations to global audiences, and furthermore, building digital marketplaces to connect local artisans with international buyers.
Ultimately, “Tourism is no longer just physical,” one panelist noted. “Technology allows us to export the Plateau experience to the world without borders.”
A Thriving Tech Community
The atmosphere at DevFest Jos 2025 was described as truly inspiring.
Moreover, the massive turnout confirmed Plateau’s tech ecosystem is thriving and dynamic.
With developers, students, and entrepreneurs present, the festival clearly showcased a hunger for knowledge and innovation.
In addition, one recurring theme was the importance of mentorship and continuous skills development.
Speakers emphasized that sustained growth depends on consistent training through workshops and structured masterclasses.
Furthermore, incubation programs were highlighted as vital for preparing local talent to compete effectively on a global scale.
Building a Sustainable Tech Ecosystem
Beyond individual skills, participants and speakers alike called for a structured support system to strengthen the Plateau tech ecosystem. They emphasized:
- Access to capital through dedicated startup funds and pitch events, supported by Nigeria’s Startup Act
- Incubation programs to nurture aspiring founders
- Government partnership in creating an enabling policy environment and investing in digital infrastructure
- Collaboration with other tech hubs across Nigeria to share knowledge and attract investment
“Building a successful ecosystem requires collaboration,” one speaker said. “Government, private sector, and the tech community must work together to create an environment where innovation thrives.”
Technology as a Tool for Growth
Panelists and speakers repeatedly emphasized one central idea: technology is the key to unlocking Plateau’s economic future.
For example, e-commerce platforms can showcase local crafts and agricultural products to buyers across the globe.
In addition, digital solutions can connect tourists with guides and cultural experiences, expanding Plateau’s reach and visibility.
Therefore, technology presents limitless possibilities for growth and long-term sustainability in the state.
By integrating tech-driven solutions into tourism and the creative economy, Plateau can diversify revenue streams and strengthen resilience.
Moreover, this integration can generate employment opportunities for youth while positioning the state for international recognition.
AI Prompt Battle
A standout highlight of the lead-up to DevFest was the Prompt Battle, held on 16th September. Participants competed to craft the most innovative and compelling prompts using Gemini and Firebase Studio. The competition tested creativity, technical skill, and the ability to think critically in real time.
Contestants ranged from students to experienced developers, all eager to showcase their AI expertise. The winners were announced and celebrated during DevFest Jos 2025, receiving recognition and exciting prizes for their outstanding work.
- 1st Place – Zion Gonet
- 2nd Place- Eseoghene Cristine Otuaga
- 3rd Place – Oluwapelumi Folarin
The Prompt Battle demonstrated the growing enthusiasm for artificial intelligence in Plateau’s tech community. It also highlighted the potential of AI tools to solve problems, inspire creativity, and drive innovation across industries.
A wake-up call
The energy and discussions at DevFest Jos 2025 highlighted a clear vision for Plateau State: a future where tourism, technology, and talent intersect to create global opportunities. The event was more than just talks and workshops it was a call to action.
“Come with your curiosity, leave with new skills, ideas, and opportunities,” participants were told at the start. By the close of the event, it was evident that many had done exactly that.
With the right partnerships, infrastructure, and continued commitment to skills development, Plateau State can cement its place not only as a center of peace and tourism but also as a global hub for technology and innovation.
Conclusion
DevFest Jos 2025 proved to be a landmark event for Plateau’s tech ecosystem. From powerful keynote speeches and engaging panel sessions to inspiring workshops and networking, the festival successfully brought together the best of innovation and vision.
Furthermore, it reaffirmed that Plateau State has the talent, creativity, and resilience to harness technology for economic growth and global relevance. However, what remains is to build on this momentum through policy support, investment, and collaboration to ensure that the ideas sparked at DevFest become realities that transform lives and communities.
In the end, as the curtains closed on DevFest Jos 2025, one message resonated clearly: Plateau’s journey to global impact has only just begun.
