By SN24.com 
By Peter Akpah.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang opened the second edition of the Plateau State Unity Christmas Carols and Praise Festival at the Ten Commandments Prayer Altar in Rayfield, Jos, describing the three‑day gathering as a shining testimony to the state’s collective aspiration for peace and progress. He noted that the convergence of denominational choirs, women’s fellowships, singing groups, musicians, church leaders, political figures, and captains of industry from across Nigeria and abroad exemplified “unity in diversity” and the enduring spirit of brotherhood that defines Plateau. The festival, which featured electrifying exhortations by Pastor Dr. Paul Enenche and performances by artists such as Sinach, Pastor Buchi, and Pastor Uche Etiaba, culminated in a fireworks display that lit up the night sky, underscoring the joyous and unifying nature of the celebration.
The governor emphasized that the Christmas season is a time of joy, love, and togetherness, reminding participants of the birth of Jesus Christ and the hope He brings to a weary world. He expressed delight in seeing the faithful gather as one family to offer praise, worship, and thanksgiving under the banner of God’s boundless love, and he urged that the festival rekindle hope, strengthen unity, and position Plateau State as a premier Christmas destination, not only in Nigeria but worldwide. Mutfwang called on all attendees to create cherished memories with their loved ones and to spread the joy of Christmas far and wide, declaring that “Plateau is rising steady, strong, and radiant in the light of Christ.”
In his closing remarks, Governor Mutfwang thanked the planning committee, led by Architect Samuel N. Jatau, FCIA, FCIML, Secretary to the Government of Plateau State, for their dedication, and he expressed appreciation to all sub‑committees, dignitaries, and participants who contributed to the success of the event. He highlighted the support of former CDS General Christopher Musa, former Benue Governor Samuel Ortom, and other notable guests, and he reiterated his administration’s commitment to fostering peace, progress, and spiritual renewal across the state.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo used the occasion to issue an urgent call for decisive action against Nigeria’s escalating insecurity, warning that the nation can no longer afford excuses as citizens continue to be victims of banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes. Speaking to a crowd of government officials, religious leaders, and dignitaries, Obasanjo expressed frustration over what he described as the government’s failure to adequately protect its people, asserting that every Nigerian life—regardless of religion or ethnicity—matters and that the country has the right to seek international assistance if domestic capacity falls short.
Obasanjo condemned the ongoing cycle of violence, citing rampant banditry and the abduction of schoolchildren, and he questioned why advanced technologies such as satellite imaging and drone operations are not being fully utilized to track and neutralize criminals. He urged Nigerians to remain prayerful but stressed that prayer must be backed by deliberate action and accountability from leaders at all levels, rejecting excuses rooted in ethnicity, religion, or regionalism.
While criticizing the security situation, the former president praised Governor Caleb Mutfwang for sustaining the Unity Christmas Carols, describing the programme as divinely inspired and capable of promoting peace and social cohesion. He suggested that the state work towards placing the festival on the global tourism calendar to attract international visitors, thereby turning a spiritual gathering into a catalyst for economic development and national unity.
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