2024 Nzem Berom Festival: Governor Mutfwang promises to increase security of farmlands, announces 2025 Plateau Unity Cultural Festival

The 2024 Nzem Berom, the cultural festival of the Berom Nation in Plateau State came with a lot of style and exquisite cultural display. For the Berom Nation, it marks the beginning of the farming season, while for others it is an avenue for the rich cultural display of the endowed people who are are found in their numbers, spread across 4 local government areas in Plateau North Senatorial Zone and in dotted settlements in Plateau Central Zone.

The event usually attracts distinguished and notable personalities from across Nigeria, this year’s edition is not an exception. The event had in representative attendance the Senate President God’swill Akpabio, Secretary to the Government of the Federation Senator George Akume, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, Elder Statesman General TY Danjuma among many other dignitaries.

Speaking at the event on Friday 17th May, 2024, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barrister Caleb Mannaseh Mutfwang highlighted the spirit of independence and commitment to public good demonstrated by Plateau’s people, stating, “Even if no one supports us, we will be able to keep going.” He praised the resilience of Plateau State in the face of adversity, emphasizing the state’s crucial contribution to Nigeria’s food security, “If not for the food that comes from Plateau State, Nigeria will know hunger.”

The Governor promised to ensure increased security of farmlands during this year’s farming season in order to boost food production. “This year, we are making arrangements to beef up the security around our farmlands. I therefore urge you to go back to the farms. We will not surrender the farmland to anyone. We are trusting God that security will begin to move around and make sure that our people go to the farm and return safely.”

“We will continue to work with the security agencies on the ground and make sure that they do their jobs better and better.”

He also spoke against and discouraged the resale of subsidized fertilizers which have been provided for farming. He stressed that the fertilizers be put to proper use and not to be sold. “I want to appeal to those of you who got fertiliser. Please, let’s not resell the fertilisers. Let’s make sure we put them to good use. We are expecting a little more from the federal government. And when it comes, we are going to make sure that those who are verified as farmers will have access to those fertilisers,”

The Governor also used the opportunity to appeal to community leaders to respect lands donates for educational purposes and avoid seeking compensation for the lands. Governor Mutfwang also announced plans by his administration to organize the first ever Plateau Unity Cultural Festival in 2025 and a unified Christmas carol event in December. He mentioned efforts to attract investors and revitalize hospitality infrastructure like Hill Station Hotel and Plateau Hotel, aiming to boost the state’s appeal to visitors.

The Governor called for unity among ethnic nationalities within Plateau, stressing that the well-being of one group should concern all. “What happens to the Berom man must be of concern to the Anaguta man…because we are all in this matter together.” He reaffirmed the state’s openness to visitors who seek peace, warning that troublemakers will be troubled by God.

He praised the establishment of a legacy fund, announcing to fulfill the state’s previous pledge of 25 million naira. He also pledged personal support for training 75 young men and women, committing at least 10 million naira for this purpose.

In conclusion, Governor Mutfwang urged continued unity and peace, emphasizing the importance of maintaining Plateau’s cultural diversity and readiness to welcome visitors. He thanked the planning committee for their efforts in organizing the festival, celebrating it in peace and harmony.