By Ezekiel Dontinna
Plateau Unity Christmas Carols and Praise Festival initiated by Governor Caleb Mutfwang, of Plateau State in Jos, truly defines and exposes the hidden love and a collective drive toward bringing back a united “Plateau of our dream”
Being the first of its kind in the history of Plateau State and Nigeria, it is mind blowing to believe that government could take the task of hosting and funding such a groundbreaking event for the unity of its citizens.
The show of interest by people in this three days event, really depicted how prepared Plateau is to reclaim its lost old glory of being “The Home Of Peace and Tourism”.
The idea behind this special day celebration, no doubt, demonstrated the importance in unity. We must commend Governor Caleb Mutfwang, for identifying this critical driver for peaceful cohesion.
Noting how important it is to the unity of Plateau State and Nigeria, two former Nigeria’s Head of States–General Yakubu Gowon and Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, left all schedules to be part of this occasion.
This truly added a significant colour to the event.
To say the least, these two Nation’s great leaders did not only attend the opening ceremony, but were throughout part of the event from Friday November 29 to Sunday December 1, 2024.
While at the Ten Commandments Arena in Doi, Jos-South LGA, venue of the occasion, one could see people from all walks of life trooping in daily to be part of this special day.
To explain how dear this Festival was the government and people of Plateau State, the State Secretary to the Government of the State (SGS), Arc Samuel N Jatau, chaired the Central Planning Committee and was co-chaired by Bldr Jeremiah Satmak, the Chief of Staff to Governor Caleb Mutfwang, respectively.
However, it was all through quite busy for the security personnel as they struggled to control the mammoth crowd. It was like never before seen in recent times, such an event attracting population of this magnitude.
The traffic this event drew was unimaginable as motorists struggled their ways from PRTVC Round about in Rayfield to the venue. This, apart from those who live around the area, there were people who opted to trek to just have feel.
People were not mindful of the chilly and hash weather Jos is known for. Majority came prepared with their winter jackets to keep themselves warm as they enjoy the beautiful and wonderful voices echoed under the Doi rock.
In fact, the beautiful sight attraction of the Festival was how colourful the venue appeared. The Choir rendition, had another thrilling performances from COCIN United Choir, ECWA Jos DCC Women Fellowship, Ngas Christian Traditional Choir, Catholic Combined Choir, Plateau Unity Choir and Plateau Carol Trumpeters.
Also displayed at the occasion, were the Mwagavul Traditional Christian Choir, the Berom Traditional Christian Choir, Jos University Orchestra and Very Rev. Prof. Pic Onwochei and the legendary gospel musician, Panam Percy Paul in that order.
It was more or less a music festival as gospel musicians like Pam Monday, Ezra Jinang, Solomon Lange, Tapshak Timothy, Neken Chuwang, Kate Miri, Nenfort James, Solomon Damulak, Job Manja, Gloria Ejembi, Jid Vocals, Margret, Sammy Brass, Misse Adams, Gold Sax, Manzing Sanda and Kespan among others.
Reflecting on the old ugly days of crises, General Gowon, commended Governor Caleb Mutfwang, for bringing back the hope the Plateau man saying, “let us pray to God that we are now beginning to see the end of all these crises.
Pray to God so that God can touch the hearts of all those who are that way inclined to create problems. For Nigeria, pray to God, for God to touch their hearts, change them and make them contribute to peace and wellbeing of one another, and of Nigeria”, he prayed.
Also pouring praises on Governor Mutfwang, former President Olusegun Obasanjo said. “I thank God Almighty for making it possible for us to be part of this Unity Christmas Carol and Praise Festival.
“I appreciate Governor Caleb Mutfwang for this godly initiative. It is evident that this idea came from God, and I believe He will continue to nurture it through you, Governor.Your commitment to peace, security, stability, prosperity, and progress in Plateau State is evident in this initiative”, he commended.
Meanwhile, Governor Caleb Mutfwang, thanked the dignitaries who came from far and hear to part of the memorable occasion.
“As we grow in our faith and spiritual maturity, achieving unity will become easier.
“This event is not just about celebrating Christmas; it is about planting seeds of peace and reconciliation that will transform not only the church, but also the state’s economy and our relationships with one another,” he emphasized.
The occasion was graced by prominent dignitaries among whom were, former Governor Jonah David Jang, of Plateau State, Ambassador Mary Lar, Wife of the pioneer National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), who was the Mother of the Day, former Chief of Defence Staff, Martin Luther Agwai, Former Governor of Adamawa State, Boni Haruna, former Plateau State Governor, Chief Joshua Dariye, former Military Administrator, Bitrus Atikum, among several others.
Streetbell Online 