Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has called on citizens to embrace unity and peaceful coexistence as the Mupun people celebrated the annual Vwang Cultural Festival in Lankang, Pankshin Local Government Area of the state.
Mutfwang, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Ngo Josephine Piyo, said cultural festivals play an important role in strengthening social harmony, preserving traditions, and encouraging peaceful living among communities.
Speaking at the event organised by the Mupun Cultural and Development Association (MUCDA), the governor noted that culture remains a foundation upon which societies build their identity and sustain continuity across generations.
“This festival represents far more than a cultural celebration. Through music, dance and artistic expression, it preserves the values and traditions that define the Mupun Nation and reinforces the shared heritage that binds communities together,” he said.
He urged citizens of Plateau State to reject division, bitterness and violence, while embracing dialogue, tolerance and brotherhood.
“Peace remains the cornerstone of sustainable development, and it is a responsibility shared by government, traditional institutions, religious leaders, youths and every member of society,” the governor added.
Also speaking, the chairman of the occasion and Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District, Simon Bako Lalong, commended the improved security situation in the state, noting that peace has enabled communities to celebrate their cultural heritage more freely.
“In the past, when people gathered to dance, they were often afraid and constantly looking back. Today, with the peaceful atmosphere we are experiencing, people can proudly wear their traditional attire and celebrate without fear,” he said.
Lalong also encouraged organisers of cultural festivals to place greater emphasis on promoting cultural heritage, noting that such events offer opportunities to showcase Plateau State’s rich traditions to a wider audience. He further announced a donation of ₦3 million to support Mupun cultural activities.
In his remarks, the Plateau State Commissioner for Tourism, Culture and Hospitality, Cornelius Doeyok Dongnaan, said the government is working to transform cultural festivals into major tourist attractions capable of boosting the local economy.
According to him, traditional dances, indigenous cuisine and cultural attire displayed during the festival represent valuable cultural assets that can attract tourists and investors if properly packaged.
“When festivals are well organised and culturally rich, people from different parts of the world will want to come and experience what we have. Our goal is to continually rebrand these festivals so they attract visitors and stimulate economic opportunities,” he said.
The Paramount Ruler of Mupun land, Da Yusuf Walleng Fwangbring, also called on his subjects to sustain the spirit of peace and unity, noting that the festival symbolises harmony among the people.
He urged Mupun sons and daughters living in the diaspora to remain connected to their roots and contribute to the development of their ancestral communities.
Earlier, the President of the Mupun Cultural and Development Association, Haruna Tanko Walleng, said the annual Vwang Festival serves as a reminder to younger generations about the importance of preserving their cultural heritage.
He noted that the celebration also provides an opportunity for Mupun people living in different parts of Nigeria and abroad to reconnect with their traditions.
The festival attracted dignitaries from across the country, with guests dressed in colourful traditional attire while indigenous dishes and cultural displays highlighted the rich heritage of the Mupun people.
As part of activities marking the celebration, a medical outreach programme was organised ahead of the main event, during which many community members—particularly the elderly and children—received free medical treatment.
The three-day Vwang Festival, which began with the outreach programme, will conclude with a church thanksgiving service to express gratitude for peace, unity and progress within the Mupun Nation.
