Event Draws Local, Foreign Visitors
Shendam Local Government Area of Plateau State has taken a major step toward promoting tourism, youth engagement, and peaceful coexistence with the successful hosting of the 2025 Shendam Hike and Sports Competition, held on Saturday, December 27, at Jalbang Mountain.
The event, which attracted participants from across Plateau State, other parts of Nigeria, and the international community, also featured a tour of the almost-completed Shendam Sports Centre, showcasing the local government’s growing investment in sports and recreation.
Speaking during the hike, the Executive Chairman of Shendam Local Government, Hon. Dr. Kemi Nicholas Nshe, described the initiative as a deliberate effort to position Shendam as a tourism hub while fostering unity among diverse groups.
According to him, the presence of participants from Mangu, other parts of Plateau, and countries such as Italy, Spain, Switzerland, and Syria underscores the inclusive nature of the programme.
“This is about tourism, unity, and progress. We are showcasing Shendam to the world and bringing people together irrespective of background. It is not about politics; it is about peaceful coexistence and development for Plateau State, Nigeria, and beyond,” Nshe said.
He added that such activities help bridge divides, build relationships across communities, and channel youth energy into productive ventures.
The Plateau State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Musa Ibrahim Ashoms, described the hike as a landmark initiative that aligns with the state government’s vision of youth empowerment and tourism development.
Ashoms noted that the event provided a healthy platform for young people to engage positively, especially during the Yuletide season.
“This is not just a Shendam programme; it is a Plateau programme. Activities like this help youths channel their energy positively, promote tourism, and project Plateau as the Home of Peace and Tourism,” he said.
He commended Governor Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for creating enabling platforms that encourage grassroots development and applauded the Shendam council for expanding recreational opportunities beyond Jos.
Also speaking at the event, the Plateau State Director of Liaison, MDAs and Security Agencies, Abuja, Hon. Ziphion Terkop Chrysanthus Bala, described the Shendam Hike as timely and symbolic, especially coming during the Christmas season and amid evolving political dynamics in the state. He said the hike reflects the spirit of love, unity, and peaceful coexistence associated with the birth of Jesus Christ, while also serving as a reminder for political actors and citizens to prioritize peace and development over division.
“This season symbolizes love, and this hike gives us the opportunity to share that love among ourselves,” Bala said. “Politics is meant to deliver the dividends of democracy, so I urge everyone to remain calm, understand that politics is just a game, and ensure that the path we take leads to peace and progress for Plateau State.”
Participants expressed excitement over the experience, describing the hike as both refreshing and unifying.
Ibrahim Mangset, a participant from Mangu, said the presence of foreigners and diaspora visitors showed that Plateau State remains attractive and peaceful.
“This is tourism in action. People from different parts of the world are here, and it shows that Plateau is truly a home of peace and tourism,” he said.
A Syrian-born Nigerian biker, Omar Da-homs, who attended the event for the second time, described the Shendam Hike and related festivals as some of the highlights of Plateau’s tourism calendar.
“It’s beautiful, healthy, and brings people together. I came from Abuja with friends to experience another side of Plateau, and it’s amazing,” he said.
Other participants, including Goeboro Gift Naanpoe and Bawa Justina, praised the initiative for promoting fitness, social interaction, and unity among youths.
During the tour of the sports centre, Hon. Dr. Nshe explained that his administration’s strong focus on youth development is aimed at reducing crime and building a productive society.
“When youths are engaged through sports and recreation, society becomes safer. That is why we are investing in facilities for football, basketball, volleyball, swimming, and more,” he said.
Reaffirming this position, Commissioner Ashoms described the Shendam sports infrastructure as a model of purpose-driven leadership, noting that the facilities would attract athletes, create employment, and place Shendam firmly on Plateau State’s tourism and sports map.
The 2025 Shendam Hike and Sports programme was widely applauded as a unifying initiative that blends tourism, youth empowerment, and community development, reinforcing Plateau State’s image as a destination for peace, recreation, and cultural exchange.
