In a vibrant unveiling ceremony held in Jos on Thursday, organizers of the 3rd edition of the Jos Family Christmas Festival officially flagged off preparations for what is expected to be the most exciting and expansive edition yet. The event brought together top government officials, tourism stakeholders, creatives, media partners, and private investors in a show of unity and anticipation for the December celebration.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Chuwang Pwajok, General Manager of the Plateau State Tourism Corporation, emphasized the state’s renewed commitment to positioning tourism as a major economic driver through deliberate planning and public-private partnerships.
“This unveiling is a critical step in building a homegrown festival that reflects the spirit and potential of Plateau. We’re deliberately starting early, engaging corporate bodies, community stakeholders, and tourism operators to co-create something big,” Pwajok said.
He noted that the Festival is part of broader efforts to designate December as a month of tourism in Plateau State, anchored on citizen participation and private sector investment. Pwajok added that ongoing redevelopment projects at key tourism facilities—such as the Hill Station Hotel, Plateau Hotel, and Jos Wildlife Park—are being executed through successful public-private partnerships, with phases of the projects scheduled for delivery by December 2025.
“We are building confidence in the sector, and the enthusiasm from investors shows we’re on the right path,” he affirmed.
Rume Ogane, CEO of Ecosystems Africa and lead consultant for the festival, outlined expanded activities for this year’s edition. Highlights include the return and expansion of the Hot Air Balloon experience, the introduction of a city-wide Christmas float parade, and collaborations with local creatives, event planners, and indigenous media houses.
“We are consolidating on past gains, expanding our programming, and creating more ownership among Plateau citizens. This is not just a festival—it’s an economic opportunity,” Ogane said.
He added that the festival will now include four major themed bands: the Governor’s Band, the Tourism Band, the Local Government Band, and the House of Assembly Band, all participating in the planned float parade.
The unveiling also spotlighted strategic efforts to attract international tourists and national tour operators. According to Ogane, discussions are ongoing to bring the National Association of Tour Operators annual conference to Jos, positioning the city as a viable destination for domestic and international holidaymakers.
Local government leaders present also echoed strong support for the festival. Hon. John Kyoro Christopher, Chairman of Jos North LGA, and Hon. Patrick Silas Dung of Jos South emphasized the role of the festival in changing the narrative around Plateau State.
“Despite security challenges in some rural communities, events like this showcase our resilience. We weep, we rise, and we celebrate. This is how we show the world that Plateau is peaceful and full of life,” said Hon. Kyoro.
“When people visit and see the hospitality, beauty, and cultural wealth here, they take a different story back home. That’s what this festival is about—telling our own story,” Hon. Dung added.
With preparations already in motion and new elements being added to the lineup, the 2025 Jos Family Christmas Festival is positioned to become a landmark celebration of resilience, unity, and tourism-driven development in Plateau State.
Organizers say the months ahead will involve widespread stakeholder engagements, media partnerships, and rollout of detailed programs to ensure that this December, Jos becomes Nigeria’s number one holiday destination.