The maiden edition of the Plateau State Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carol concluded on Sunday, December 1, 2024, in an atmosphere of celebration, unity, and spiritual reflection. The three-day event, hosted at the iconic 10 Commandments Altar in Doi, Du, Jos South Local Government Area, drew a massive crowd of over 15,000 attendees, including dignitaries, religious leaders, and Christian faithful from across Plateau State and beyond.
The event, a flagship initiative of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has been widely praised for fostering unity and promoting peace among diverse communities in Plateau State, a region historically marred by communal tensions.
The carol witnessed the presence of notable national figures, lending the occasion both prestige and significance. Among those in attendance were former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon; former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo; former Plateau State Governor, Senator Jonah David Jang; the Gbong Gwom Jos, HRH Da Jacob Gyang Buba; and former Plateau Governor, Chief Joshua Chibi Dariye. Their participation underscored the importance of unity and reconciliation in Nigeria’s sociopolitical landscape.
The Unity Christmas Carol featured soul-stirring worship, hymns, and choral performances that filled the air with joy and spiritual reflection. Thousands joined in singing traditional Christmas carols, creating an atmosphere of reverence and celebration.
Renowned religious leaders delivered powerful messages emphasizing peace, unity, and the transformative power of faith. In his exhortation, former Anglican Bishop Benjamin Kwashi highlighted the significance of the gospel’s deep roots in Plateau State, calling on Christians to remain steadfast in faith amid challenges. Reflecting on the second coming of Jesus Christ, he urged believers to prepare for this reality while emphasizing the gospel’s power to overcome sin and suffering.
In his remarks, Governor Caleb Mutfwang expressed gratitude to the dignitaries and attendees who graced the event. He emphasized the carol’s purpose of fostering unity among the people of Plateau, irrespective of denominational differences.
“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,” Governor Mutfwang stated.
The governor expressed optimism that the initiative would become an annual event, bringing economic and spiritual growth to the state.
General Yakubu Gowon lauded Governor Mutfwang for organizing such a unique and impactful program. He described the carol as a unifying force and expressed confidence in its potential to grow into a globally recognized festival.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo echoed similar sentiments, describing the carol as a seed sown for the future. He envisioned the event becoming an international gathering of faith and unity.
Senator Jonah David Jang, a former Plateau governor, described the event as prophetic, aligning with God’s plan for a “new Plateau” and a “new Nigeria.” He emphasized that the unity demonstrated among Christians during the carol laid the foundation for divine transformation in Nigeria.
The Gbong Gwom Jos, HRH Da Jacob Gyang Buba, stressed the importance of peace in Plateau State, urging Governor Mutfwang to lead with justice and courage in the face of challenges. Similarly, Chief Joshua Chibi Dariye commended the visionary leadership that brought the Unity Christmas Carol to fruition, emphasizing the need for translating ideas into actions that drive growth and harmony in the state.
Hon. Samuel Nanchang Jatau, one of the event organizers, reflected on the challenges and successes of hosting the maiden edition. He promised that future editions would be even more impactful, with plans to expand the event internationally. Jatau encouraged Plateau residents to explore the business opportunities the carol has created, noting its potential to boost tourism and the local economy.
As the event drew to a close, it left a lasting impression on attendees, who departed with renewed hope for a peaceful and united Plateau State. The Plateau Unity Christmas Carol has set the stage for an annual tradition that celebrates the season and fosters reconciliation, faith, and collective growth among the people of Plateau.
