The 2025 Enchanting Plateau Exhibition officially opened at Jos’ Odilins Event Center, drawing artists, cultural figures, and creatives from across Plateau State for a week-long celebration of the region’s heritage. With the theme “One,” this year’s edition underscores the exhibition’s mission to unite communities through art, promote tourism, and strengthen cultural identity.
The event commenced with an impactful address by Chuwang Pwajok, who highlighted the exhibition’s growing significance in Plateau’s cultural landscape. He noted that the initiative has evolved beyond a mere gathering of artists, becoming a platform for societal reflection, pride, and healing. Pwajok emphasized that the creative works on display reflect the resilience, diversity, and communal spirit that define Plateau State. He commended young artists capturing local narratives stories of unity, beauty, struggle, and hope stressing that their creativity is a powerful force in shaping the state’s cultural future. According to him, Enchanting Plateau is steadily emerging as a signature cultural event that deserves continued support and expansion.
Visionary founder David Thomas delivered a heartfelt speech, sharing the origin of Enchanting Plateau as a dream to give Plateau artists a global stage and opportunities often unavailable to young creatives. He acknowledged the challenges faced by artists, including limited visibility, recognition, and funding, but highlighted the extraordinary talent within the state. Thomas described the exhibition as a bridge connecting art, culture, tourism, and economic development, urging government agencies, corporations, and private sectors to view art as an investment with long-term value. He extended gratitude to His Excellency Barr Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, his team, partners, and supporters, expressing hope that the exhibition will rank among Nigeria’s and Africa’s major cultural events in the future.
In his remarks, Hon. Dachung Bagos praised the initiative for inspiring young creatives and providing a platform to shine. He emphasized the economic potential of the creative industry, citing examples of artworks that have gained global recognition. Bagos encouraged artists to trademark their creations and embrace the business side of artistry, noting that Plateau’s art could become a major economic asset if properly nurtured.
Participating artists also shared their experiences. Naomi Adamu, exhibiting for the second time, described the event as an inspiring space that motivates continuous creation despite challenges in the art sector. Her featured piece, “Symbolic Identity,” crafted from natural seeds and gourds, reflects Plateau’s cultural roots, symbols, and traditional communication patterns, while strengthening unity and confidence among artists.
Similarly, David C. Nwadike expressed gratitude for the opportunity to showcase his work, noting that Enchanting Plateau provides critical visibility for young artists and fosters appreciation of local creativity. He emphasized that monetizing art starts with valuing it locally and called for sustained support for the platform.
Attendees toured the exhibition stands before the event concluded, admiring artworks that vividly portrayed Plateau’s rich culture, festivals, landscapes, and symbolic heritage, offering a deeper connection to the state’s identity and artistic brilliance.
The 2025 Enchanting Plateau Exhibition continues to position Plateau State as a growing creative hub and a true center of peace, culture, and tourism.
