Month: December 2024

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Plateau Unity Christmas Carol Concludes in Splendor, Earning Acclaim for Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s Peace Efforts

The maiden edition of the Plateau State Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carol concluded on Sunday, December 1, 2024, in an atmosphere of celebration, unity, and spiritual reflection. The three-day event, hosted at the iconic 10 Commandments Altar in Doi, Du, Jos South Local Government Area, drew a massive crowd of over 15,000 attendees, including dignitaries, religious leaders, and Christian faithful from across Plateau State and beyond.

The event, a flagship initiative of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has been widely praised for fostering unity and promoting peace among diverse communities in Plateau State, a region historically marred by communal tensions.

The carol witnessed the presence of notable national figures, lending the occasion both prestige and significance. Among those in attendance were former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon; former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo; former Plateau State Governor, Senator Jonah David Jang; the Gbong Gwom Jos, HRH Da Jacob Gyang Buba; and former Plateau Governor, Chief Joshua Chibi Dariye. Their participation underscored the importance of unity and reconciliation in Nigeria’s sociopolitical landscape.

The Unity Christmas Carol featured soul-stirring worship, hymns, and choral performances that filled the air with joy and spiritual reflection. Thousands joined in singing traditional Christmas carols, creating an atmosphere of reverence and celebration.

Renowned religious leaders delivered powerful messages emphasizing peace, unity, and the transformative power of faith. In his exhortation, former Anglican Bishop Benjamin Kwashi highlighted the significance of the gospel’s deep roots in Plateau State, calling on Christians to remain steadfast in faith amid challenges. Reflecting on the second coming of Jesus Christ, he urged believers to prepare for this reality while emphasizing the gospel’s power to overcome sin and suffering.

In his remarks, Governor Caleb Mutfwang expressed gratitude to the dignitaries and attendees who graced the event. He emphasized the carol’s purpose of fostering unity among the people of Plateau, irrespective of denominational differences.

“As we grow in our faith and spiritual maturity, achieving unity will become easier. This event is not just about celebrating Christmas; it is about planting seeds of peace and reconciliation that will transform not only the church but also the state’s economy and our relationships with one another,” Governor Mutfwang stated.

The governor expressed optimism that the initiative would become an annual event, bringing economic and spiritual growth to the state.

General Yakubu Gowon lauded Governor Mutfwang for organizing such a unique and impactful program. He described the carol as a unifying force and expressed confidence in its potential to grow into a globally recognized festival.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo echoed similar sentiments, describing the carol as a seed sown for the future. He envisioned the event becoming an international gathering of faith and unity.

Senator Jonah David Jang, a former Plateau governor, described the event as prophetic, aligning with God’s plan for a “new Plateau” and a “new Nigeria.” He emphasized that the unity demonstrated among Christians during the carol laid the foundation for divine transformation in Nigeria.

The Gbong Gwom Jos, HRH Da Jacob Gyang Buba, stressed the importance of peace in Plateau State, urging Governor Mutfwang to lead with justice and courage in the face of challenges. Similarly, Chief Joshua Chibi Dariye commended the visionary leadership that brought the Unity Christmas Carol to fruition, emphasizing the need for translating ideas into actions that drive growth and harmony in the state.

Hon. Samuel Nanchang Jatau, one of the event organizers, reflected on the challenges and successes of hosting the maiden edition. He promised that future editions would be even more impactful, with plans to expand the event internationally. Jatau encouraged Plateau residents to explore the business opportunities the carol has created, noting its potential to boost tourism and the local economy.

As the event drew to a close, it left a lasting impression on attendees, who departed with renewed hope for a peaceful and united Plateau State. The Plateau Unity Christmas Carol has set the stage for an annual tradition that celebrates the season and fosters reconciliation, faith, and collective growth among the people of Plateau.

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Plateau State University Unveils Pioneering Student Guidance and Counseling Initiative

Plateau State University has taken a significant step towards enhancing the academic and professional journey of its students by launching a rare initiative to offer free guidance and counseling services on career choices. The initiative makes the university one of the first ten Nigerian universities to establish a career service center and receive funding from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund).

Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Shedrack Best, on November 29 launched the initiative, which kicked off with a crucial workshop for faculty officials. This followed the establishment of the center last March, which paved the way for its funding by TETFund under its 2024 Allocation to Tertiary Institutions in Nigeria.

The three-day workshop held from November 27-29 aimed to build the capacity of Deans, Directors, and Heads of Department to effectively guide and counsel students.

Prof. Best emphasized that the career service center is designed to prepare students and university staff to face the future and their careers in a guided manner.

“It is aimed at developing the university community from the key principal organs of the universities to the major administrators of the university into the students’ body in order to prepare our graduates for careers that are fruitful and to prepare them to contribute to the development of the nation in different ways,” Prof. Best stated.

Dr. Anna Fakah, the head of the center, explained that the center provides various career and employment-related services to enable students and alumni to make informed choices and find job placements that match their skills.

“This will ensure effective service delivery, national development and global competitiveness of both beneficiaries and the nation,” Dr. Fakah said.

The workshop was the first of three planned by the center this year. Renowned speakers, led by Prof. Grace Momoh, shared insights on the theme “The Roles of Career Guidance and Counseling in Fostering Various Career Alternatives”.

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Yusuf Ahmed Appointed as Community/Partnership Manager for Plateau State to Drive AI Growth

Yusuf Ahmed, a seasoned digital marketing professional and community builder, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. As the Founder/COO of Thrive Media Africa, he has successfully helped numerous businesses grow their online presence and achieve their digital marketing goals.

In his new role at AI in Nigeria, Yusuf will be responsible for fostering a vibrant AI community in Plateau State. He will be involved in various initiatives, including:

  • Developing and implementing community strategies
  • Building strong partnerships with local businesses and organizations
  • Organising and moderating community events and webinars
  • Creating and curating valuable content for the community
  • Analysing community metrics to inform strategic decision-making

“We are thrilled to have Yusuf join our team,” said Dotun Adeoye, Co-Founder of AI in Nigeria. “We are excited about the potential impact his experience and network will add to AI in Nigeria Community mission in Jos and Plateau State in General.”

In his new role, Yusuf will focus on growing the AI community in Plateau State, fostering local partnerships, and supporting initiatives like the InnovateAI Conference. His responsibilities include curating valuable programs for community members, organising events, and showcasing how AI can transform sectors such as education, agriculture, and healthcare.

“This role is a unique opportunity to bring AI closer to the communities and businesses that stand to benefit the most. I am excited to work with local leaders and innovators to unlock the transformative potential of AI in Plateau State,” Yusuf shared.

About AI in Nigeria
AI in Nigeria is on a mission to empower the country through artificial intelligence. The organisation offers a range of services, from AI readiness assessments and strategic planning to training and product development. With a vision to make AI accessible and beneficial to all Nigerians, AI in Nigeria aims to drive innovation and inclusivity while creating lasting societal impact.

What This Means for Plateau State
Yusuf’s appointment is expected to energize the tech and AI ecosystem in Plateau State. His vast experience, combined with his passion for community development, positions him as a catalyst for change. Under his leadership, the region is set to benefit from expanded opportunities in AI education, partnerships, and business growth.

For organisations and individuals in Plateau State looking to explore the possibilities of AI, Yusuf Ahmed’s leadership marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter.

About Yusuf Ahmed
Yusuf Ahmed is a digital marketing expert and community developer with a passion for promoting economic growth and development. He is the Founder/COO of Thrive Media Africa and has worked with various organisations to provide digital marketing solutions and training.

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Obasanjo Calls for Love as a Unifying Force at Plateau State Christmas Carol Festival

The Plateau State Interdenominational Christmas Carols and Praise Festival entered its second day with a profound message from former Nigerian President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, who emphasized the pivotal role of love in fostering peace and unity.

Speaking at the iconic 10 Commandments Altar in Du, Jos South Local Government Area, Chief Obasanjo highlighted love as the foundation for harmonious coexistence and a solution to conflicts. “Where there’s love, there won’t be conflict,” he stated, urging attendees to embrace love as a transformative force.

The former president attributed many of Nigeria’s challenges to the lack of compassion and understanding. He stressed that love fosters appreciation of diversity and shared values, saying, “God’s gift of diversity is for identity, but our common humanity is what unites us.” Drawing on John 3:16, Obasanjo encouraged Nigerians to live out God’s love, promoting peace and understanding nationwide.

Obasanjo also commended Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang for establishing the Christmas Carol Festival, which he described as a meaningful platform for unity and spiritual reflection. He praised the governor’s peacebuilding efforts and called on other leaders to prioritize initiatives that unite communities.

Governor Mutfwang, in his address, reiterated the festival’s mission to unite people around a vision of peace and progress. He urged Plateau residents to overcome divisions and focus on building a prosperous future. The governor also acknowledged national figures like General Yakubu Gowon and Chief Obasanjo for their lasting contributions to peace and stability in Nigeria.

Reverend Polycarp Lubo, Chairman of the Plateau State Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), added a spiritual perspective, citing Isaiah 7:14 to emphasize the fulfillment of God’s promise through Christ’s birth. He encouraged Christians to live as “lights of the world” and use worship and singing as symbols of faith and hope.

The festival, organized by the Plateau State Government in partnership with CAN, continues to unite Christians from diverse denominations for worship, prayer, and celebration, strengthening community bonds and reinforcing faith.

The event has drawn widespread acclaim for its role in fostering unity and spiritual rejuvenation, serving as a beacon of hope during the Christmas season.