The University of Jos hosted its 2nd Annual Festival of Carols and Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 13, 2024, at the Akwe Doma Indoor Theatre. The event attracted senior academic and non-academic staff, university management, dignitaries from outside the university community, students, and well-wishers.
In his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Tanko Ishaya acknowledged the governing board, heads of departments, academic and non-academic staff, clergy, online viewers, students, and other well-wishers. He highlighted that the Christmas Carol, first held in 2023, marked a historic milestone for the university and pledged to make it an annual tradition, promising an even grander event next year. He also tasked the Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Abdullahi, with enhancing publicity to increase attendance beyond the university community.
The Vice-Chancellor commended the Music Department Choir for their outstanding performance at the Jos Choir Concert. He reiterated his commitment to equipping the department with essential resources, some of which were already procured and would soon be handed over. He urged attendees to embrace gratitude, peace, generosity, and spiritual reflection during the Christmas season.
The Nine Lessons were read by the Registrar, various deans, professors, and culminated with the Vice-Chancellor reading the ninth lesson. The students from the Department of Theatre and Film Arts captivated the audience with a play titled Jesus, The Reason for the Season, directed by Dr. Musa Yaki. The Music Department Choir delivered a breathtaking performance, while the Tanko Choir, led by the Vice-Chancellor, added a touch of humor to the evening.
Professor Danny McCain, Director of the Centre for Conflict Management and Peace Studies, delivered a special exhortation on the lessons of Christmas. Other highlights included performances by the Trumpeters of Jos, the Jos Music Choir, comedy by Noel King, and more, creating an unforgettable evening.
In his closing remarks, the Vice-Chancellor thanked everyone for attending and encouraged them to look forward to next year’s celebration. Reverend Sister Godan led the closing prayer, after which attendees moved to the Senate/Administrative Building at Naraguta Campus for the tree lighting ceremony.
In an interview, the Registrar, Dr. Rejoice James Songden, described the event as “a wonderful evening—refreshing, enlightening, and educational. I enjoyed every performance and was thrilled to see people come together to celebrate Christ. Indeed, we are all one in Christ.”
The Speaker of the House of Parliament, SUG, Danyil Nanman Samuel, noted that the Student Union Government collaborated with university management to ensure the event’s success, underscoring the harmonious relationship between students and administration. The SUG’s primary role was to mobilize students, while the management handled the bulk of the preparations.
Miss Chinyere James, Assistant Music Director of the Music Department, acknowledged challenges during rehearsals due to the late invitation. However, she expressed satisfaction with the performance, which exceeded her expectations despite the tight schedule.
Titus Emmanuel, a 400-level Theatre and Film Arts student who participated in the play, explained that their performance aimed to highlight the essence of Christmas and address different perceptions of the holiday while showcasing its true meaning.
Raymond Praise, a 300-level Biochemistry student, described the event as an “awesome experience” that taught him the essence of Christmas and emphasized that “Jesus is Christmas, reconciling the world.”
Patience Auta Nuhu, a 200-level Linguistics student, shared her enthusiasm for the performances, particularly the theatre presentation, stating, “The event was well-coordinated, the refreshments were tasty, and the play was captivating. The Theatre and Film Arts team did an excellent job.”
The ceremony was anchored by Professor Sarah Lahwas and Mr. Magaji, beginning with the National Anthem and the UniJos Anthem. Reverend Professor Pic Onwochei then led the opening prayer, followed by introductions of guests and a rundown of the program.
Prominent attendees included the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tanko Ishaya, accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Sharon Ishaya; the Registrar, Dr. Rejoice James Songden; the Director of the Centre for Peace and Conflict Resolution, Professor Danny McCain; the University Librarian, Dr. Thomas Akinbayo; the University Bursar, Mr. Fada Philip Umbugala; and Chief Benjamin Jang, the Galadima representing the Ujah of Jos North, among others.
Pictorial Excerpts
Reports by Elizabeth Abimbola Adepoju (Theatre Arts Correspondent) (5/5)
Edited by Isama Anyaole Peace
