The 2025 Enchanting Plateau Exhibition opened in Jos, Odilins Event Center with renewed excitement, drawing artists, cultural figures, and creatives from across the state for a week-long celebration of Plateau’s heritage. With the theme “One,” this year’s edition reinforces the exhibition’s mission of uniting communities through art, promoting tourism, and strengthening cultural identity.
The event began with an impactful address by Chuwang Pwajok, who highlighted the exhibition’s growing importance in the Plateau cultural landscape. He noted that the initiative has become more than a gathering of artists, it is a platform for societal reflection, pride, and healing. Pwajok emphasized that the creative expressions on display mirror the resilience, diversity, and communal spirit that define Plateau State. He commended the young artists whose works capture local narratives—stories of unity, beauty, struggle, and hope, stressing that their creativity is a powerful tool for shaping the state’s cultural future. According to him, Enchanting Plateau is gradually emerging as a cultural signature event that the state must continue to nurture and expand.
Visionary and Founder David Thomas followed with a deeply heartfelt speech that set the tone for the exhibition. He explained that Enchanting Plateau was born out of a simple but powerful dream, to give Plateau artists a global stage and create opportunities that many young creatives lack. Thomas highlighted the challenges artists often face, including limited visibility, lack of appreciation, and financial constraints, noting that despite these obstacles, Plateau remains home to extraordinary talent. He described the exhibition as a bridge between art, culture, tourism, and economic development, calling on government agencies, corporate organizations, and the private sector to see art not just as entertainment but as an investment with long-term value. Thomas thanked His Excellency Barr Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, his team, partners, and supporters for believing in the vision, expressing hope that the exhibition will one day rank among Nigeria’s and Africa’s major cultural events.
In his remarks, Hon. Dachung Bagos praised the initiative for inspiring young creatives and giving them a platform to shine. He emphasized that the creative economy holds enormous potential for wealth creation, citing examples of art pieces that have gained global value over time. Bagos encouraged artists to trademark their works and embrace the business side of creativity, stressing that Plateau’s art can become a major economic asset if properly harnessed.
One of the exhibiting artists, Naomi Adamu, shared her joy at participating for the second time. She described the exhibition as an inspiring space that motivates artists to keep creating despite the challenges within the art sector. Naomi discussed her featured piece, “Symbolic Identity,” made from natural seeds and gourds to reflect the deep cultural roots of Plateau people, including their symbols, values, and traditional communication patterns. She noted that the exhibition strengthens unity among artists and boosts their confidence.
Artist David C. Nwadike also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to showcase his work. He said Enchanting Plateau provides essential visibility for young artists and encourages appreciation of local creativity. Nwadike emphasized that monetizing art begins with valuing it locally and called for continuous support for the platform.
Before the event concluded, attendees toured the exhibition stands, admiring artworks that vividly portrayed Plateau’s rich culture, festivals, landscapes, and symbolic heritage. The displays offered visitors a deeper connection to the state’s identity and artistic brilliance.
The 2025 Enchanting Plateau Exhibition continues to reinforce Plateau State as a growing creative hub and a true home of peace and tourism.
