As the nation marks the Christmas season, Nigerian leaders from various sectors have come together to offer messages of hope, unity, and compassion, urging citizens to remain resilient despite ongoing challenges. In their separate Christmas statements, governors, ministers, and prominent figures called for collective support for the government’s efforts, particularly the Renewed Hope Agenda led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State Calls for Optimism Amid Economic Challenges
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, in his Christmas message, urged Nigerians to look beyond the current economic difficulties and focus on the future, which he believes holds better prospects. Abiodun emphasized the need for unity and tolerance, calling for respect towards people of different religious beliefs, a vital element for peace in a diverse nation like Nigeria.
“We must support all the reforms embarked upon by President Bola Tinubu towards the revitalization of our hitherto weak economy and ensure prosperity,” Abiodun said. He also encouraged Ogun residents to approach the holiday season with moderation, reflecting on the bigger picture of hope and development in the nation.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State Prays for Peace and Calls for Vigilance
In Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde used the occasion of Christmas to call on Christians to pray for the state and the nation, particularly during this period of mourning for the families affected by the recent tragic stampede at a children’s funfair in Ibadan. He urged Oyo State residents to be vigilant, reminding them to report suspicious activities to security agencies through the State Emergency Number, 615.
Makinde also called for the responsible celebration of Christmas and extended his heartfelt sympathies to those grieving during this festive period. “Christmas presents another opportunity to spread love and to make supplications for our state and our country,” he said.
Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State Advocates Economic Turnaround and Unity
Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State also sent a message of hope, encouraging residents to spread love, kindness, and unity during the holiday season. Otu acknowledged the economic challenges facing the people of the state but assured them that his administration is working towards an economic turnaround, focusing on long-term progress for the state and the nation.
“We are planting seeds for economic turnaround and significant progress in our state and country,” Governor Otu said, emphasizing that policies designed for sustainable development would soon begin to yield positive results.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State Encourages Generosity and Reconciliation
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State used the opportunity of Christmas to remind residents of the importance of love, generosity, and unity, drawing on the example set by Jesus Christ. “Christmas is a season of love, selflessness, and generosity,” Mutfwang said, urging people to embrace these virtues as they celebrate. He called for prayers for peace, unity, and progress in both the state and the nation, hoping the season inspires citizens to foster understanding and reconciliation.
Ministers Encourage Reflection and Support for Economic Reforms
Several ministers also took part in the national reflection on the Christmas season, stressing the importance of selflessness and unity in overcoming national challenges.
Minister Nyesom Wike of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) called on residents of Abuja to rededicate themselves to God, reminding them of the importance of keeping God’s commandments, particularly the commandment of love. “Christians must show love to people around us and teach others to do the same,” Wike said, also reiterating his belief in the potential of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, urged Nigerians to reflect on the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, stressing that his selflessness should inspire everyone to support the nation’s economic reforms. “We are encouraged by this huge and monumental sacrifice of Jesus Christ, to also key into this sacrifice, in giving our support to the economic reforms by President Tinubu,” Adelabu stated.
The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Isiaq Salako, reassured Nigerians that President Tinubu’s reforms would soon yield tangible results, urging citizens to be patient and supportive as the government tackles national challenges.
Prominent Figures Echo Messages of Love and Unity
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, former Governor Chris Ngige, and other prominent leaders joined the chorus of calls for unity and love. Atiku Abubakar reminded Nigerians that despite the adversity the nation faces, Christmas offers a moment to reflect on the hope that Jesus Christ’s birth brings to the world. He appealed for unity and collective sacrifice from political leaders for the greater good of the country, saying, “With love and unity, there is no obstacle too great to overcome.”
Chris Ngige, former Minister of Labour and Employment, also called for prayer for the nation, asking citizens to reflect on their lives and the future of Nigeria during this solemn period. Ngige emphasized that Christmas, despite the struggles, is a global celebration of hope, which Nigerians should embrace.
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, added his voice to the celebrations, urging Nigerians to emulate the virtues of Jesus Christ, including love, forgiveness, provision for the needy, and peace. He noted that lack of genuine love is a significant issue in society, and the nation needs a Christ-driven love to address the vices and injustices that persist.
NACA Director-General Calls for Health Awareness During the Holiday Season
Temitope Ilori, the Director-General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), reminded Nigerians to prioritize their health during the Christmas holiday. He encouraged citizens to take advantage of the free and confidential HIV testing services available across the country, emphasizing the importance of making informed health decisions during the festive period.
Chief of Defence Staff Praises Troops for Their Resilience
General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), praised Nigerian troops for their resilience and commitment in the fight against terrorism. Musa acknowledged the sacrifices made by soldiers and reminded them to use the Christmas period to reflect on the immeasurable love of God for them and their families. “We do remember with a heavy heart that some of our colleagues who started the year with us, lost their lives in the process of keeping our nation safe,” he said.
Musa expressed hope for positive changes in security in 2025, urging troops to remain focused on their mission to protect the country from all forms of insecurity, including terrorism, banditry, and other threats.
Conclusion: A Unified Call for a Better Future
As Nigeria celebrates Christmas, the messages from leaders reflect a collective call for unity, hope, and resilience. Despite the economic, security, and social challenges, the overarching message is clear: Nigerians are encouraged to embody the values of love, forgiveness, and selflessness, as exemplified by Jesus Christ. Through support for the government’s reforms, mutual cooperation, and a focus on peace, Nigerians are urged to remain hopeful for a better tomorrow. The government’s Renewed Hope Agenda remains at the forefront of this vision, with leaders reiterating their commitment to the country’s growth and development.
Comments