By CHRISTIANA LOT, Jos –
The Plateau State Government has been commended for fostering peace and creating a conducive environment for business and tourism as the second edition of the Strongest State Nigeria (SSN) reality show kicks off in Jos.
Describing Plateau as the “safest state in Nigeria,” the Director-General and founder of the reality show, Chief Solomon Francis, urged Nigerians to visit, invest, and dismiss negative perceptions about insecurity in the state.
Speaking during the event’s opening ceremony, Francis said, “The government has done excellent work in securing the state, and the people are peaceful and accommodating. I have been in Plateau for over a month, and it is the safest place in Nigeria. Let Nigerians know they can come here to do business, invest, and live without fear.”
Francis further explained the concept of the Strongest State Nigeria reality show, noting, “This is a 60-day competition aimed at promoting unity by celebrating Nigeria’s cultural diversity. It was launched on December 6 at the Presidential Villa in Abuja to spotlight the richness of our nation.”
He added, “This year’s edition features 74 contestants from all 36 states and the FCT. Contestants will participate in tasks to earn points while viewers vote to keep them in the competition. At the end of the show, the winner will receive the prestigious Trophy of Unity and a cash prize of N20 million.”
Highlighting Plateau’s significance as the host state, Francis described it as the “Home of Peace and Tourism,” stating that its peaceful environment aligns perfectly with the show’s mission of fostering harmony and coexistence.
Similarly, Ambassador Dr. Kirti Sudhanshu, a guest and judge at the event, praised the initiative for its focus on cultural preservation and leadership development. “This program is a message of unity—One Love, One Nation—bringing Nigerians together as one family while celebrating our rich diversity,” she said. Dr. Sudhanshu, who leads Kirti’s Care Foundation, emphasized that empowerment and dignity are central to the show’s objectives. “It’s about creating a unifying vibe because your vibe attracts your tribe,” she added.
Elder statesman Senator Davou D. B. Zang also commended the organizers for creating a platform that fosters peace and unity. “This initiative comes at the right time when our country needs to come together as one. I did not hesitate to support it because I believe in the unity it represents,” he stated. Zang encouraged participants to embrace the competition with grace, urging those evicted to see it as a learning experience and those remaining to give their best.
On his part, the host coordinator, Alfred Baker Mgbejume, described the show as a unifying platform promoting coexistence and cultural exchange. “This reality TV show is deeply rooted in the concept of unity. It showcases our rich cultural heritage by bringing together contestants who share values, exchange traditions, and coexist peacefully. This is our vision of one indivisible Nigeria,” he said.
The event has also drawn praise from other notable figures. Lugnan Sebastian Jubril, who works with Plateau Radio Television Corporation (PRTVC), described it as the first of its kind in Plateau State, fostering collaboration between youths and elders. “This event encourages synergy, promoting togetherness and cultural development. It’s a positive step towards national unity,” he said.
Contestants highlighted the cultural significance of the show. Queen Patience Itohu, representing Benue State, described it as a “glamorous celebration of Nigeria’s cultural diversity.” Similarly, King Duru H.F. Nwachukwu, representing Ebonyi State, expressed excitement about using the platform to learn from other cultures. “This platform allows us to explore and appreciate the richness of each culture. It’s a journey of growth, understanding, and unity through cultural exchange,” he emphasized.
