Organisation to unveil Africa’s tallest Christmas tree in Abuja

Organisers say the event is part of activities for the 2024 Christmas celebration in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that organisers of the annual show disclosed this at an event to flag-off preparations for this year’s fiesta on Thursday in Abuja.

According to the organisers, plans are underway to make the 2024 Christmas tree unprecedented, as it is meant to surpass the current tallest one in Africa,  South Africa’s  GST Beacon of Hope.

The South Africa’s GST Beacon of Hope, standing at a staggering height of 125 feet, unveiled in Dec. 2023, is acclaimed to be the present tallest Christmas light tree in Africa.

Mrs Jennifer Fatorisa, Co-founder/Director of Jav Christmas Village, said the goal is to make the village an end-of-year tourist hub in Africa, therefore this year’s tree would be taller than the existing Beacon of Hope.

“Today we gathered to celebrate a momentous occasion; the flag of the tallest Christmas tree in Africa.

“We embark on an adventurous journey to witness this creation of a wondrous tree and we call her the Tree of Joy.

“We do not want to disclosed the height now, but on December 7 the tallest Christmas light tree in Africa, which will surpass the current one with almost a hundred feet, will be unveiled.

“This majestic tree, a true giant in Africa, will bring together all tribes, religions, and people from all over the world.

“This beacon of joy symbolises unity, strength, and resilience in Africa, reminding us of our shared values and aspirations.

“Over the next four months, we will be working tirelessly in setting up JAV Christmas tree and the village, building this magnificent tree, and preparing to usher Nigerians and the world into yuletide,” she said.

Also, Mrs Valentine Ighure, Co-founder/Director of Jav Christmas Village, said the event has become a holiday hotspot in the FCT, and this year’s edition would run for one month at the Abuja Continental Hotel.

She said the initiative was to have a platform   to bring family together, adding that the event was not only for Christians but also for others, who are interested in having fun in Abuja.

In her goodwill message, the Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John,  thanked the organisers for the initiative, adding that the event represents a shining example of the innovative spirit that defines Nigeria.

Ade-John, who was represented by her Special Assistant on Medical Tourism, Kelvin Ikegwuonu, said the initiative would bring  joy to countless families and contribute  significantly to local economy.

“Since its inception, the Jav Christmas Village has become a beacon of joy and

unity,welcoming over 300,000 visitors from all walks of life.

“This year’s Christmas Village promises to be even more spectacular, featuring an array of exciting attractions that will transform Abuja into a winter wonderland.

“It shows our commitment to creating inclusive spaces that celebrate diversity and bring families together, regardless of tribe, religion, or age.

“For this, I must applaud the organisers – Jav Festive Destination for putting together such a memorable initiative,” she said.

NAN reports that the event had in attendance stakeholders in the creative and entertainment sectors, heads of organisations, top government functionaries  and members of the Diplomatic community.

Highpoint of the event was the official flag-off rite by the  FCT minister of state, Mariya Mahmoud.(NAN)