The Plateau Unity Christmas Carols & Praise Festival 2025 opened on the evening of November 28th with an atmosphere heavy with praise, excitement, and an overwhelming sense of togetherness. The Ten Commandments Prayer Altar in Dwei-Du, Jos South, lit up as thousands of worshippers, dignitaries, choirs, bands, and ministers gathered with one purpose to celebrate unity in Christ and peace on the Plateau.
Jointly hosted by the Plateau State Government and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), this year’s edition promised to be bigger, deeper, and more spiritually stirring. Day One lived up to its expectation and more.
The opening day featured a vibrant lineup of cultural displays, mass choir renditions, and powerful band performances. Harmonious praise segments and soul-lifting ministrations set the tone for a sacred night of worship. From Batuu to Karu, from the Unity Choir to local ensembles, each group brought a unique sound, showcasing Plateau’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
A major musical highlight came from the legendary Buchi, whose spirit-filled reggae gospel electrified the crowd, drawing thousands into a unified river of worship.
Rev. Godwin Manzo delivered a deeply symbolic and emotional goodwill message. Drawing from Ephesians, he reminded the audience that Christ has already broken down walls of hostility dividing people, tribes, and regions. He emphasized unity and peace, referencing an overlooked symbolic image near the altar three people holding Plateau together.
“As Plateau people, we must declare boldly: We hold. We hold each other, and we pursue peace and unity. That is the only path,” he said, setting a spiritual foundation for the night.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang welcomed worshippers with heartfelt warmth, acknowledging distinguished elders, clergy, traditional rulers, and national guests. He paid special tribute to Mama Professor Mary Daushev Lab, the nearly 90-year-old former First Lady who traveled early that morning to be part of the event.
Other distinguished guests recognized included former ministers, legal luminaries, senators, retired and serving lawmakers, court judges, and senior military officers.
A memorable moment came when the Governor invited retired senior military officers to receive the night’s special guest Former President Olusegun Obasanjo. His arrival electrified the venue. Speaking with humor and fatherly grace, he saluted the retired officers:
“Old soldiers never die. Even when you can’t see them, they never truly leave the table.”
Obasanjo praised Plateau for hosting such a monumental event:
“For the first time, a state in Nigeria has hosted such a program in a way never done before. This is remarkable and must continue.”
He encouraged the Governor to place the festival on the global calendar, positioning Plateau as a yearly pilgrimage site for unity and Christmas worship. Though unavailable for Day Two, he promised to return next year:
“What I have seen this year has whetted my appetite for next year.”
Governor Mutfwang returned to close the night on a prophetic note of hope:
“Those who wish to see Nigeria destroyed will not succeed. God will help our leaders to do what is right.”
Day One concluded with bright lights, lifted hands, and grateful hearts. It was more than an event it was a renewed declaration of hope, unity, and Plateau’s unshakable identity as a beacon of peace and God’s glory.
Plateau is rising stronger, united, and firmly rooted in Christ.
