In a jubilant celebration of two decades of divine grace through music, the Rhythm of Praise Festival gears up for its landmark 20th anniversary edition, scheduled for Sunday, March 24th, 2024. Originating in 2004 under the divine mandate of God, PST Jerry Ogbeba and King Benny Bello set forth to create one of the largest gospel music concerts across the Middle Belt and Northern Nigeria, which soon became the esteemed RHYTHM OF PRAISE Festival.
Speaking on behalf of the organizers, King Benny Bello recounted the first edition which was hosted by Fountain Music Bauchi and NuGroove Multimedia Jos, powered by Panam Music World through the visionary leadership of committed musicians, countless youths have found mentorship, and many individuals have embraced the saving knowledge of Christ, illuminating lives with melodies of love, peace, and hope.
King Benny said that this year’s milestone edition holds special significance, themed “PEACE IN THE STORM,” in response to recent tragedies such as the Christmas Eve killings in Bokkos and Barkin Ladi, coupled with the unrest in Mangu, underscoring the urgent need for divine intervention. Inspired by 1 Thessalonians 5:18, the festival aims to provide a platform for collective worship and supplication, seeking peace amidst turbulent times.
Headlining the event are esteemed ministers including Dr. Panam Percy Paul and Ebuka Songz, alongside Gad, Nugroove, PST Jerry Ogbeba, Jos Community Mass Choir, Jos Gospel All Stars, and other seasoned ministers, promising an unforgettable musical experience.
The festival remains inclusive and accessible to all, with no gate fees. To alleviate transportation challenges, free shuttle buses will be provided to and from the venue, stationed at major locations in Jos.
In closing, the organizers call upon individuals and organizations to support the “PEACE IN THE STORM” Musical Concert, uniting in faith and expectation for God’s remarkable intervention in the nation and this generation.
Adding weight to the call for support, Pastor Jerry Ogbeba emphasized the festival’s humble beginnings and appealed for increased partnership and support to ensure its continued success.
Comrade Humphrey Color, Governor of the Plateau State Chapter of the Performing Musician Association Of Nigeria (PMAN), lent his insights and support, highlighting the unifying power of music and the potential of events like Rhythm of Praise to foster community and promote peaceful coexistence in Plateau State.
Representing the Fellowship of Gospel Music Ministers of Nigeria, Minstrel Jid, Chairman of the Plateau state Chapter, echoed the commitment to promoting excellence in gospel music, stressing the importance of events like Rhythm of Praise in uplifting the standard of gospel music production.
The event reached its pinnacle with the unveiling of the festival’s posters by Revrend Mrs. Tina Panam, symbolizing a beacon of hope and unity amidst challenging times.