EAGLE EYE
Christmas is in the air. And Plateau State is wearing it boldly. It shimmers in the streets, echoes in the air and settles warmly in the heart.
Anyone in Jos and its environs can feel it. The transformation began as early as the second week of November, when the government started refreshing the city’s roundabouts, giving them a stunning festive glow. From Mararaban Jema’a to Farin Gada, the streets were cleaned, flowers and other ornamental plants were trimmed and adorned with brilliant colours that radiated joy and lifted the spirit. Approaching any roundabout, one almost instinctively begins to hum a Christmas tune as the lights dance across the night, creating a beauty that words can hardly capture.
A visitor recently captured the moment perfectly. Driving into Jos around 8:00 p.m., she exclaimed in excitement as she saw the first, then the second roundabout. “Your governor must love Christmas. He must love spreading joy,” she said, overwhelmed by the display. Then, approaching Old Airport Junction, she declared, “I love Jos!” enchanted by its glow and the calm bustle so unlike the usual chaos of many Nigerian cities.
Can a city be reborn in a day? Plateau often feels like that—renewed, uplifted and shielded by grace. Just as the mountains surround Jerusalem, so Plateau stands embraced, protected and strengthened by the invisible arms of God.
We have seen difficult days. But we look to the hills from where our help comes. These beautifully decorated roundabouts symbolise hope, like the ribbon on a present or the icing on a cake. They announce bigger gifts ahead—and the unveiling has already begun.
On November 28, the Plateau State Government kicked off the second edition of the Annual Christmas Carols at the Ten Commandments in Du, Jos South LGA. The government provided free buses, and the excitement was infectious. It felt like Christmas morning itself.
People came with Christmas caps, hats and wide smiles, eager for the ride. At the venue, it seemed like the whole of Jos was present. Business owners, ever alert, capitalised on the moment and set up their stalls not far from the car park, turning the place into a cheerful marketplace of food, gifts and festivity.
Restaurants—mostly the beloved ‘Mama puts’—bustled with activity. One woman pounded yam vigorously as her assistants served plates piled high with delicacies. Others sold fried yam dotted with eggs, sesame-coated meat (nama ridi), kunu, puff puff, fish rolls, freshly baked bread and popcorn popping nonstop. Vendors sold floating balloons, Christmas caps, shoes and all sorts of colourful festival items.
Inside the Ten Commandments grounds, the buzz was even stronger. On the left side of the entrance, mai shayi, certified food vendors, snack sellers and drink vendors filled the space. People poured in by the hundreds, their faces glowing with anticipation.
The entire area—from the surrounding mountain tops to the stage—radiated with colourful lights that made the night feel magical. A garden near the entrance became a favourite photo spot, artistically recreating the story of Christmas through carefully arranged lights. It was something to experience, not to merely describe.
Those who attended last year but missed this one truly missed out. Everything was bigger, better and more captivating. Sinach, the world-renowned music minister, performed live and gave her absolute best, joined by Buchi and other gifted song ministers.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo also attended and delivered words of exhortation. One of Nigeria’s greatest preachers was the guest minister, adding depth to the spiritual experience. A particularly memorable moment was when a four-year-old girl recited 138 Bible memory verses, followed by others during the second day of the programme.
Meanwhile, the Jos Business Women hosted a vibrant trade fair at Tamarald Event Centre. It was a gathering of Plateau’s brightest female entrepreneurs—fashion designers, cosmetics sellers, textile dealers, caterers, bakers, drink makers, food vendors and specialty meat sellers. Those in fashion filled the hall indoors, while food vendors took over the outdoor space. Each group had a DJ, blasting music, advertising products and drawing customers with a mix of rhythm and persuasion. No one could leave without buying food—the aroma alone was impossible to resist.
Unfortunately, the trade fair and the Christmas Carols held simultaneously, causing people to rush between the two events. This reduced patronage for the businesswomen compared to last year. It would be helpful for the Commissioner of Women Affairs, Mrs Caroline Dafur, who represented the governor at the fair, to advise on better scheduling in future so both events can shine without clashing.
For now, it is only fitting to join millions of Plateau residents in saying a heartfelt thank you to Governor Mutfwang for making this Christmas season truly unforgettable. His love for beauty, unity and celebration is evident. And, certainly, the people can feel, touch and luxuriate in it.