In a heartfelt Christmas message, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has extended his felicitations to Christians across Nigeria, placing a poignant emphasis on the need for collective prayers for peace and for the nation’s leaders. The message, delivered against the backdrop of the state’s and nation’s complex challenges, reframes the festive season as a crucial moment for reflection and communal solidarity.
The governor’s statement, issued in Jos by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Dr. Gyang Bere, congratulates the global Christian community. Governor Mutfwang described Christmas not merely as a celebration, but as a profound “season of reflection, thanksgiving and renewed hope for humanity.” This framing is particularly significant in Plateau State, a region with a rich cultural tapestry that has, at times, been strained by conflict. His call goes beyond seasonal goodwill, tapping into the core Christian narrative of Christmas as the arrival of divine light—a symbol of hope, redemption, and reassurance for a “weary world.”
Central to the governor’s appeal is a dual call to prayer. First, he urges citizens to offer “fervent prayers for peace nationwide.” This is a direct acknowledgment of the security challenges plaguing not just Plateau but many parts of Nigeria. Second, he specifically requests prayers for leaders at all governance levels, including President Bola Tinubu, seeking for them “divine wisdom, courage, sound health and guidance.” This highlights a recognition that effective leadership, especially in turbulent times, requires more than political strategy; it necessitates moral and spiritual fortitude.
The governor’s message did not shy away from the harsh realities on the ground. He expressed deep sympathy to families affected by recent violent attacks, a sobering reminder of the persistent insecurity. Furthermore, he acknowledged the widespread “economic pressures and insecurity” facing citizens. In doing so, he directly connected the spiritual themes of Christmas—compassion, forgiveness, and selfless service—to the practical responsibilities of governance. “Your government is not oblivious,” he stated, affirming a commitment to protecting lives and property and “working tirelessly with security agencies to restore peace and create pathways for sustainable development.”
Governor Mutfwang also praised the people of Plateau for their “steadfast support” and “collective commitment to peace, unity and harmonious coexistence.” This serves as both a commendation and a subtle reinforcement of desired social behavior, encouraging residents to see themselves as active architects of peace in their communities. The message concludes by rooting the call to action in the essence of the season: the reflection of “God’s boundless love,” which inspires the very values needed to navigate current trials.
Ultimately, this Christmas message transcends a routine holiday greeting. It is a strategic communication that leverages the unifying power of faith to address secular crises. It seeks to mobilize spiritual capital—prayer—toward the tangible goals of peace, wise leadership, and communal resilience, making the governor’s plea for a prayerful Christmas a deeply relevant and contextualized appeal for the state and the nation.
