The annual cultural celebration, Nzem Berom 2024, marked a significant milestone as the Berom nation celebrated 15 years of Da Jacob Gyang Buba’s reign as the Gbong Gwom Jos, a first-class chief on the Plateau.
The event, chaired by Senator Simon Mwadkwon, former Senate Minority Leader, featured a grand highlight with the launch of the Wurom Legacy Trust Foundation. The foundation aims to establish a technological village, an agricultural extension hub, an economic empowerment center, a heritage village, a cultural museum, a library, and an educational endowment with a fundraising goal of 10 billion naira.
In his keynote speech, Gbong Gwom Jos Da Jacob Gyang Buba expressed profound gratitude to all who attended, emphasizing the importance of cultural preservation.
He remarked, “A people without a culture, without traditions, are a lost people,” underlining the significance of the event in celebrating and preserving the rich heritage of the Berom nation.
He also paid homage to the victims of insurgent attacks in Plateau State and the late Justice Gabriel Adamusha, asking attendees to observe a minute of silence in their memory.
His speech also highlighted the ongoing efforts to defend their land and traditions against external threats, with a call for unity and resilience among the Berom people.
Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, also addressed the gathering, commending the spirit of independence and community exhibited by the Berom people.
He highlighted the resilience of the Plateau people despite numerous challenges, stating, “The contribution of the people of Plateau State to the national food basket cannot be underestimated.”
Governor Mutfwang emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation to overcome adversity, promising enhanced security measures for farmers and pledging support for the Wurom Legacy Trust Foundation.
He announced substantial donations and plans for future cultural and developmental projects, including a Plateau Unity Cultural Festival in 2025 and a Unity Christmas Carol event in December.
The event also saw inspiring speeches from other dignitaries, including Rev. James Momoh, who encouraged the Gbong Gwom Jos to remain steadfast in his faith and leadership.
The former Governor Da Sen. Jonah David Jang, who praised the governor’s administration and the unity displayed by the Berom nation.
The Nzem Berom 2024 celebration not only honored cultural heritage but also set the stage for future community development and empowerment initiatives.
