The vibrant city of Jos came alive as the 2024 Nzem Berom cultural festival commenced 17th May, 2024 at the Rwang Pam Township Stadium, drawing attendees from across Plateau State and beyond. Themed “The Future of Berom Land: Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, Reorientation,” the festival highlighted the significance of preserving cultural heritage amidst contemporary challenges.
In his welcome address, the Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Gyang Buba, underscored the importance of culture and tradition in defining a people. “A people without a culture, without traditions, are a lost people,” he remarked, calling upon the attendees to remember their roots and uphold the rich cultural heritage of the Berom nation to the glory of God.
Da Buba expressed gratitude for divine protection amidst ongoing adversities and urged his people to intensify their farming activities to ensure a bountiful harvest. He noted that this year’s festival was subdued in honor of those who have lost their lives due to insurgent attacks, specifically mentioning the late Justice Gabriel Ada Musa. A minute of silence was observed in their memory.
“We have deliberately continued to host this cultural festival to remind our detractors and those who think they can intimidate us that, by the grace of God Almighty, we shall not be vanquished,” Da Buba asserted. He reiterated the Berom people’s determination to protect their land and uphold their traditions against any form of intimidation.
The Gbong Gwom also touched on historical and biblical perspectives, asserting that the Berom people’s current land was divinely allocated and emphasizing their resilience in the face of adversity. He assured the Plateau State government and the Federal Government of the Berom nation’s continued cooperation in seeking solutions to national challenges and fostering peace.
Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, attended the festival and advocated for ethnic unity as a means to foster peaceful coexistence. He commended the Berom nation for its efforts in promoting peace, tolerance, and solidarity, and praised Da Buba on his 15th anniversary as the Gbong Gwom Jos. The Governor announced a personal donation of N10 million to the Berom Legacy Trust Fund aimed at training 75 young men and 75 young women to reduce youth restiveness.
Governor Mutfwang emphasized the necessity of ethnic unity and highlighted the government’s efforts to resettle Internally Displaced Persons and enhance security in rural areas. He announced plans for the 2025 Plateau Cultural Day and an Interdenominational Christmas Carol in December to celebrate cultural heritage and collective prayers for the state’s prosperity and security.
Representing the Senate President, Senator Diket Plang praised the industrious nature and peaceful disposition of the Berom people. Former Governor of Plateau State, Da Jonah David Jang, encouraged reliance on divine guidance, while former Chief of Army Staff, Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (Rtd), stressed the importance of maintaining peace and unity in Plateau State and Nigeria. Prayers were offered for the leadership, security, and prosperity of Plateau State and Nigeria.
Senator Simon Mwadkwon, chairman of the organizing committee, noted the unique aspects introduced in this year’s festival and expressed optimism that the donations received would significantly contribute to the goals of the Berom Legacy Trust Fund.
The festival concluded with various donations from sons and daughters of the Berom land, special invited guests, and well-wishers towards the Berom Legacy Trust Fund. These contributions are intended to support youth development and preserve the rich cultural heritage of the Berom people.
In his closing remarks, Da Buba thanked everyone for their participation and urged them to continue respecting their cultural traditions and laws, which define them as a people. He also appealed for law-abiding behavior to ensure the security and well-being of all. The celebration was set to continue with further festivities at the nearby venue of Landfill.
The 2024 Nzem Berom cultural festival showcased the resilience, unity, and rich cultural heritage of the Berom people, highlighting their commitment to peace, development, and the preservation of their traditions for future generations.
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