The Plateau State Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carol drew an overwhelming crowd of over 40,000 people on the last day, celebrating in grand style at the 10 Commandments Altar, Doi, Du in Jos South Local Government Area. The event, which has become a major highlight of the festive season in Plateau, saw the convergence of Christian faithful from across the state, along with several prominent national figures.
Among the dignitaries 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 Chief Joshua Chibi Dariye Among others. Their presence added significance to the maiden event, which serves as a symbol of unity and peace among various religious denominations in Plateau State.
The carol, which featured uplifting worship music and choral performances, had the massive crowd singing along to hymns and carols that filled the air with joy and spiritual reflection. Speakers at the event emphasized the importance of peace, unity, and religious harmony, particularly in Plateau State, which has had its share of communal tensions.
In his exhortation, former Anglican Bishop Benjamin Kwashi emphasized the significance of the gospel’s deep roots in Plateau State and its transformative power in guiding people through hardships. Reflecting on the second coming of Jesus Christ, Kwashi urged believers to prepare for this eventuality. He highlighted the gospel’s role in overcoming sin, darkness, and suffering, while warning against rejecting Christ, as this leads to eternal damnation. Kwashi encouraged perseverance in faith amid persecution, assuring that the rewards in heaven far outweigh earthly suffering.
At the Plateau Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carol, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, expressed gratitude for the prominent figures who graced the occasion, including General Yakubu Gowon and Chief Olusegun Obasanjo. He emphasized the importance of unity and spiritual growth, stating that as the people come to maturity in their faith, it will become easier to achieve lasting unity. Governor Mutfwang expressed confidence that what God had started through the event would be perfected, impacting not only the church but also the state’s economy and relationships with both Christians and non-Christians alike.
General Yakubu Gowon praised Barrister Caleb Mutfwang for organizing the Unity Christmas Carol and Praise Festival, praising its unique program and large turnout. He emphasized the festival’s impact on unity and faith, predicting future editions.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo expressed gratitude for being part of the Plateau State Unity Christmas Carol and Praise Festival, noting that the event has sown a seed that will grow into an annual international occasion.
In his submission, former Plateau State Governor, Da Sen. Jonah David Jang, expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to witness the unity of the church in Plateau, which he believes will spread across Nigeria and the world. He emphasized that the current time is prophetic, aligning with God’s plan for a “new Plateau” and a “new Nigeria,” which will play a central role in the spread of the gospel worldwide before the return of Jesus Christ. Highlighting the importance of unity among Christians, Jang urged support for Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s leadership, believing that the unity witnessed is a foundation for divine transformation in the nation.
In his goodwill message, His Royal Majesty Da Jacob Gyang Buba emphasized the importance of peace in Plateau State, emphasizing the challenges faced by the governor and urging him to lead with justice and without fear. He called for people to remember lessons and support their leaders.
Former Governor of Plateau State, Chief Joshua Chibi Dariye, praised God and leaders like General Yakubu Gowon for their guidance. He commended Jonah David Jang for visionary leadership and emphasized the importance of translating ideas into tangible steps for state growth in building the 10 Commandments Alter.
Hon. Samuel Nanchang Jatau, in his appreciation speech, acknowledged the honor of having prominent leaders like General Yakubu Gowon and President Olusegun Obasanjo at the event. He reflected on the challenges of organizing the first Plateau Unity Interdenominational Christmas Carol, promising improvements for the next edition, including expanding the event internationally. He urged Plateau residents to leverage business opportunities arising from the event, emphasizing the Governor’s efforts to boost tourism and the economy. Jatau also highlighted the dedication of the choirs and expressed gratitude for the overwhelming turnout, aiming for an even larger crowd next year.
