Preparations for the inaugural Plateau State Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carols and Praise Festival have officially begun, marked by a vibrant roadshow that kicked off on Sunday, November 24, 2024, at the State Secretariat Flyover in Jos. The roadshow, featuring a colorful procession and live band, signals the start of an event set to bring together Christians from across the state in a celebration of unity and faith.
The festival, which will run from November 29 to December 1, 2024, at the 10 Commandment Prayer Altar in Doi, Jos South Local Government Area, is a collaborative effort between the Plateau State Government and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Plateau State Chapter. Each day of the event will begin at 3:30 PM, with attendees gathering for an inclusive celebration of Christmas carols and praise.
Speaking during the roadshow’s launch, Hon. Yiljab Abraham, Chairman of the Media and Publicity Sub-Committee, highlighted the significance of the event, emphasizing that it is part of the state government’s effort to foster unity across Plateau. “This initiative, championed by Governor Caleb Mutfwang, aims to mobilize people from all walks of life in Plateau to engage in discussions on strengthening unity and promoting peace. The goal is not only to celebrate the season but to bring together all denominations and ethnic groups under one umbrella,” Abraham said.
Governor Mutfwang’s vision for the festival is clear: to unite people through shared worship and to promote religious tourism. “We want Plateau State to be recognized as a destination for religious tourism, just like Mecca or Jerusalem. This festival is an opportunity to show that Plateau is a place for spiritual reflection, not a carnival or a display of cultural spirits,” he stated.
The festival will feature a powerful choral performance, with plans to build a 1,000-member strong choir known as the Plateau Unity Choral Group. Initially, the group will begin with 300 members, with hopes to expand significantly by the end of the festival.
For attendees, transportation to the venue will be provided free of charge, with designated buses covering various routes. Security measures have been put in place to ensure the safety of all participants, with prayer warriors available for both physical and spiritual protection during the event.
The planning committee, led by Plateau State’s Secretary to the Government, Architect Saminu Jatto, and supported by the Chief of Staff, Builder Jerry Sattva, is confident that the festival will not only strengthen religious unity but also help reposition Plateau State as a hub for peaceful coexistence and spiritual reflection.
Rita Kachollom Pam, General Manager of Plateau Radio Television Corporation, and Barr. Ezra Jinan, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Entertainment and Creativity, both expressed optimism that the event will leave a lasting impact, creating unity and fostering a sense of pride for Plateau State.
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