Former President Olusegun Obasanjo and a former military Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (retd.), and other dignitaries are expected at the Christmas carols and praise festival in Plateau State.
The Secretary to the State Government, Samuel Jatau, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday as part of the event to be held between November 29 and December 1.
He said that while Gowon would serve as the special guest of honour, Obasanjo would serve as the guest of honour.
According to the statement, the interdenominational unity Christmas carols and praise festival being organised by the Plateau State Government in collaboration with the Plateau State Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria seeks to unite the people under the banner of God through songs of praise and worship.
The statement noted that 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 adding that. It is a time that embodies love, kindness, and generosity—values that Christ exemplified.
It read, “Under the visionary leadership of Governor Caleb Manasseh 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. Dr. Yakubu Gowon, GCFR, Former Head of State of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Guest of Honour: His Excellency, Gen. Olusegun Aremu Obasanjo, GCFR, Former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Mother of the Occasion: Amb. Prof. Mary Lar, wife of the first civilian governor of Plateau State, the late Chief Solomon Lar. Chief Host: His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, Executive Governor of Plateau State. Music Minister: Renowned Christian gospel artist, Solomon Lange.
“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.
“Plateau State is delighted to host you!”