The 2025 Nzem Berom Festival made a powerful impact as it showcased the beauty of Berom culture and honored the enduring strength of Berom women. With the theme “Celebrating the Prowess, Gallantry and Resilience of Berom Women: Past and Present,” this year’s edition brought together dignitaries, cultural performers, and guests in a glamorous celebration of heritage and unity.
This year’s Festival proudly recognized and celebrated the gallantry and resilience of Berom women, past and present. Among those honoured were iconic figures such as Ngo Naomi Vou Jugu, Ngo Hannatu Chollom, Ngo Josephine Chundung Piyo, Justice Jummai Chundung Sankey, Ngo Sarah Reng Ochekpe, Ngo Sarah Dagah (De Sele), Suga Vera Pam, among those whose contributions in various fields have inspired generations and upheld the strength of the Berom Nation.
Chairman of the Main Planning Committee and former Senate Minority Leader, Senator Simon Mwadkwon, warmly welcomed guests to the 2025 Nzem Berom Festival, describing it as a historic platform to showcase Berom culture and unity.
In his welcome address, he appreciated Senator Oluremi Tinubu for honouring the event through the presence of the Speaker’s wife and thanked His Majesty, Da Jacob Gyang Buba, CFR, for the privilege of leading the planning committee for the second time.
Mwadkwon emphasized the theme of this year’s festival, “Celebrating the Prowess, Gallantry and Resilience of Berom Women” as a tribute to the vital roles of Berom women in nation-building. He called for continued unity, resilience, and government support in addressing security challenges while commending all contributors to the festival’s success.
Representing the Chairman of the Occasion, Governor Dr. Kefas Agbu, Arc. Samuel Nanchang Jatau praised the Nzem Berom Festival for honoring the legacy and resilience of Berom women. He emphasized their pivotal role in shaping society, highlighting personal experiences and celebrating notable Berom heroines like Justice Jummai Sankey, and former Minister Sarah Reng Ochekpe.
He also acknowledged unsung women whose daily struggles symbolize the strength of the Berom spirit. He urged the people to protect their rich heritage and maintain peace, expressing solidarity with the Berom nation as they celebrate their culture.
The Gbong Gwom Jos, His Majesty Da Jacob Gyang Buba, praised the exceptional courage and resilience of Berom women during the Nzem Berom celebration. He presented certificates of honor to deserving women and used the moment to bestow a noble title, De Teyei, on Nigeria’s First Lady, Her Excellency, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu in recognition of her humanitarian efforts across the state and Nigeria. He acknowledged the many Berom women, past and present, who have left lasting impact in society.
The Gbong Gwom expressed concern over the growing menace of child trafficking in Plateau State, describing it as shameful and alarming. He called on the government to empower the Ministry of Women Affairs to tackle the issue and urged traditional rulers to actively participate in ending this societal decay. He also questioned the lack of tracking systems in orphanages, warning that many may be involved in trafficking under the guise of caregiving.
The Special Guest of Honour, Governor Caleb Mutfwang, praised the gallantry, resilience, and rich legacy of Berom women: past and present, highlighting their vital role in preserving culture, promoting peace, and driving grassroots development.
The Governor acknowledged the contributions of Berom women in agriculture and enterprise, aligning their efforts with his government’s people-focused development agenda. He prayed that the festival would usher in a peaceful and productive farming season, in line with the hopes of the Berom people.
Represented by Hajiya Fatima Tajudeen Abbas, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu applauded the Nzem Berom Festival for celebrating the strength and resilience of Berom women. She praised their vital role in agriculture, peacebuilding, and cultural preservation.
She also commended the Gbong Gwom Jos for his leadership and prayed that the festival would not only inspire a peaceful and fruitful farming season but also align with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, especially in the areas of food security and women empowerment.
In a goodwill message on behalf of Dr. Ima’an Suleiman Ibrahim, Minister for Women Affairs, the Plateau State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hon. Caroline Panglang Dafur, said the Nzem Berom Festival reflects the resilience and cultural pride of the Berom people. She emphasized that culture is not just a reflection of the past but a guiding light for the future, urging everyone to protect heritage while promoting peace, justice, and inclusion.
In his vote of thanks, Da Gyang Dudu Dalyop, President of BECO, expressed deep gratitude to all dignitaries, guests, and supporters of the Nzem Berom Festival. He highlighted the unity and cultural pride demonstrated throughout the event, announced progress on the Berom Technology Hub, and praised contributions from leaders and youth alike. He emphasized the recognition of women and girls in Berom society and looked forward with hope and excitement to the 2026 celebration.
