The Plateau Cultural Carnival 2024 brought Jos, Plateau State, to life on December 30 and 31, with the theme “Celebrating Unity in Diversity.” The two-day cultural extravaganza showcased the state’s rich cultural heritage and commitment to fostering peace and unity among its people.
The event commenced with a colorful carnival procession and parade on December 30. Participants, dressed in vibrant traditional attires, walked from the State Secretariat Junction to Crest Hotel Gardens, where a series of activities, including cultural performances, dance dramas, and local food tasting, enthralled attendees.
The grand finale on December 31 featured an awards ceremony that recognized individuals and organizations for their contributions to arts, culture, and tourism. Notable recipients included: Lifetime Achievement Award: Da Senator Jonah David Jang, Arts and Culture Award: Filmmaker Dumbo Atiya, Cultural Icon Award: Dantala Jatau, Tourism Development Award: Godwin Nenpan Goyang Recognition Award: Princess Nwakego Ibrahim-Pam others include Kenneth Gyang, PRTV, Plateau Express Service, and Integrated Dairies Ltd.
Debrah Jalmat, the convener and founder of the Plateau Cultural Carnival, expressed pride in the event’s success, describing it as a transformative platform for celebrating Plateau’s cultural wealth and promoting unity.
“The Annual Plateau Cultural Carnival is not just an event; it is a movement that unites communities, celebrates our unparalleled cultural heritage, and drives economic growth through cultural tourism. By immersing ourselves in vibrant parades and captivating performances, we preserve our heritage while unlocking opportunities for global recognition,” Jalmat stated.
She also announced the theme for the 2025 edition, “Discover Plateau: Cultural Adventure,” scheduled for December 20-21, 2025, inviting attendees to explore the state’s hidden treasures and opportunities.
Representing former Governor Jonah Jang, Senator Simon Mwadkwon highlighted the carnival’s role in uniting Plateau’s diverse ethnic groups.
“Culture is the totality of who we are – our food, clothing, language, and way of life. Events like the Plateau Cultural Carnival preserve our roots, promote unity, and encourage young people to embrace their heritage,” Mwadkwon said.
Telzing Piya Nden, Director of Arts and Culture at the Plateau Ministry of Tourism, emphasized the carnival’s role in promoting peace and tourism. She lauded the government’s support for the event and called for more private initiatives to complement government efforts in developing the tourism sector.
The event featured special appearances by actor Kalu Ikeagwu, Ummi Baba-Ahmed, Tony Goodman, and Prince Daniel Aboki. Lonny John and Queen Pyenmwa were the Carnival King and Queen, adding glamour to the festivities.
The Plateau Cultural Carnival 2024 successfully showcased the state’s cultural diversity, reaffirming its status as the “Home of Peace and Tourism.” It served as a unifying platform for celebrating heritage, fostering peace, and promoting Plateau State’s immense cultural and tourism potential.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General W. Shaibu NAM, on Thursday, May 28, 2026, hosted a special Eid el Kabir luncheon for frontline troops in Plateau State in recognition of their sacrifices and sustained efforts in maintaining peace and security across the Joint Operations Area.
The event, organised by Headquarters 3 Division Nigerian Army in collaboration with the Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP), held at the Operation ENDURING PEACE headquarters in Jos and brought together officers, soldiers, their families, and invited guests in a festive atmosphere.
Major General U.B. Abubakar
Representing the Chief of Army Staff, the Commander Armour Corps, Major General U.B. Abubakar, delivered the COAS’s goodwill message, describing Eid el Kabir as a reminder of faith, sacrifice, obedience, and devotion to duty.
He commended troops for their resilience in the face of security challenges across the country, noting their contributions to ongoing operations against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, oil theft, and other forms of criminality.
According to him, the Nigerian Army remains proud of the commitment and professionalism of its personnel, adding that their sacrifices continue to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
He also paid tribute to fallen heroes who paid the ultimate price in service to the nation, describing their memory as a source of inspiration for serving troops. He extended condolences to their families and assured them of continued support and welfare attention from the Army.
The COAS, through his representative, reaffirmed his commitment to improving troops’ welfare, noting that ongoing infrastructure projects, housing schemes, healthcare support, and educational initiatives for personnel and their families remain a priority under his command philosophy.
He urged troops to remain disciplined, professional, and united, while using the festive period to reflect on the values of sacrifice, loyalty, and service to the nation. He also emphasized the importance of inter-agency collaboration in sustaining operational success.
General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander, Operation ENDURING PEACE, Major General Folunsho Oyinlola
Speaking at the event, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander, Operation ENDURING PEACE, Major General Folunsho Oyinlola, said Eid el Kabir symbolizes sacrifice, obedience, and devotion—values he noted are deeply reflected in military service.
He commended troops operating under challenging conditions, describing their resilience and professionalism as vital to ongoing peace efforts in the region.
Oyinlola also observed a moment of remembrance for fallen personnel, stating that their sacrifices must continue to inspire commitment to mission success. He urged troops to remain vigilant and dedicated to sustaining gains in security operations.
The event was attended by senior security officials, including representatives of the Special Adviser on Security to the Plateau State Government and Coordinator of Operation Rainbow, heads of security agencies, senior military officers, and other stakeholders.
High-ranking officers also took part in serving meals to troops, a gesture that highlighted camaraderie and appreciation, while cultural performances and entertainment added colour to the celebration.
The luncheon ended with renewed calls for unity, discipline, and continued dedication to national service as troops marked the Eid celebration with their families and colleagues.
Jos is set to come alive in Arsenal colours as fans across Plateau State prepare for the much-anticipated Jos Arsenal Victory Parade, UEFA Champions League Watch Party, and Arsenal Awards Night in what promises to be one of the biggest fan gatherings in the city.
The event, described as the ultimate Gooners’ link-up, will bring together Arsenal supporters from across the state for an evening packed with celebration, entertainment, and football passion — with free entry for everyone.
Activities kick off on Saturday, May 30, with the Victory Parade scheduled to begin at 3:00 PM sharp from Terminus, by Zenith Bank, as fans are expected to flood the streets in Arsenal jerseys to celebrate in style.
The celebration will then move to Tamarald Event Centre (Outdoor), off Old Airport Junction, from 4:00 PM, where guests will enjoy an exciting lineup of activities.
Organisers have promised premium entertainment featuring free party jollof for the first 50 attendees, sizzling barbecue, music performances, comedy, dance showcases, special Arsenal awards presentations, and the official launch of a brand-new Arsenal-themed song.
Supporters are simply encouraged to show up in their Arsenal jerseys and be part of the unforgettable experience.
The event is supported by Areo Global Services, Malangwa Media Empire, Nugroove Multimedia, Grace Dimensions Ministries, Dabels Cakes and Catering, Jos Metro Foods, Da Zone Concepts, Joe B Entertainment, Royal K.O.C, and the Gunners Rhythm Gang.
For enquiries, support, and table reservations, interested participants can contact:
07031001105
08126007839
For Jos Gooners, this is more than an event — it is a celebration of football, community, and Arsenal pride.