Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has officially declared December 2024 as Tourism Month.
The celebration will kick off with the Plateau State Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carols and Praise Festival, an event aimed at fostering unity and showcasing the state’s cultural and religious heritage.
The festival, organised by the Plateau State Government in collaboration with the Plateau State Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria is designed to unite the people of Plateau State under the banner of God through songs of praise and worship.
Distinguished personalities, including former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon (retd.) and former President Olusegun Obasanjo, are expected to grace the occasion.
A statement released by the Secretary to the Government of the State and Chairman of the Planning Committee, Samuel Jatau, highlighted the significance of the season and the state government’s objectives:
“Christmas, celebrated across the globe, is a sacred and joyful season commemorating the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ—the Son of God who came to redeem humanity from sin and its grave consequences. It is a time that embodies love, kindness, and generosity—values that Christ exemplified.
“Under the visionary leadership of Governor Caleb Mutfwang, the Plateau State Government is committed to fostering these noble virtues by promoting compassion, sharing with those in need, and strengthening bonds of love among families and communities. In line with this vision, Governor Mutfwang has declared December 2024 as a Tourism Month in Plateau State.
“This significant month, marked by the birth of Jesus Christ, will commence with the Plateau State Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carols and Praise Festival. This event, organised by the Plateau State Government in collaboration with the Plateau State Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), seeks to unite the people under the banner of God through songs of praise and worship.
“The maiden edition of the festival will be graced by eminent Nigerians who have contributed immensely to the peace and unity of the nation. Special Guest of Honour: Gen. Yakubu Gowon, GCFR; Guest of Honour: Gen. Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR; Mother of the Occasion: Professor Mary Lar, wife of the first civilian Governor of Plateau State, the late Chief Solomon Lar; Chief Host: Governor Caleb Mutfwang.”
Jatau also provided details about the event’s schedule. He said, “The event will take place from November 29 to December 1, 2024, at the Ten Commandments Prayer Altar, Du, Jos South Local Government Area, starting at 3:30 PM daily.
“This festival is a reflection of Governor Mutfwang’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and inclusiveness, guided by shared values rooted in faith and unity. By celebrating the essence of Christmas—the birth of Jesus Christ—the event seeks to elevate Plateau State as a premier Christmas destination in Nigeria and beyond.
“Attendees can expect an extraordinary experience that will captivate families, tourists, and visitors from across the nation. Throughout the season, the city of Jos will shine brightly with twinkling lights and the joyous sounds of carols, providing an opportunity to celebrate shared values and embrace the fascination of Christmas.”
The Plateau State Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carols and Praise Festival promises to set a new benchmark for Christmas celebrations in the region, blending faith, culture, and tourism to foster unity and promote Plateau State as a destination for holidaymakers.
