ABUJA (Sundiata Post) – As Nigerian Christians join their counterparts all over the world for this year’s Christmas celebrations, state governors in the country have sent out messages preaching love, peace and unity among the people.
Even as Nigerians grapple with difficult economic realities during the festivities, the governors noted that it is important to come together as a people to celebrate the joy, peace and hope that the season brings.
In his message, the governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, encourage the people to embrace tolerance, unity, and understanding with our neighbors, no matter our differences.
“Let’s take a moment to reflect on the values of love, compassion, and generosity, and strive to embody the true spirit of Christmas in our actions and interactions.
“As we celebrate, I encourage everyone to embrace tolerance, unity, and understanding with our neighbors, no matter our differences. Together, let’s work towards building a Lagos where harmony and progress flourish,” Sanwo-Olu said.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State called on Christians to use the opportunity of the festivity to pray for the state and Nigeria and to also spread love among the people. He also prayed for those mourning
He said: “I wish all Christians and residents of Oyo State a Merry Christmas.
“Christmas presents another opportunity to spread love and to make supplications for our state and our country.
“We should remember those mourning the loss of their children in the recent stampede and pray that God will console them and give them the fortitude to bear the loss.
“I also urge residents of the state to be observant and vigilant at this period. They should report any suspicion to security agencies through 615.
“As we always say, if you see something, say something and the government will do something.
“Merry Christmas and Happy New Year in advance.”
In his own message, Governor Usman Ododo of Kogi State reminded Christians that Christmas is a time to reflect on the boundless love of God.
“As we celebrate this season of joy, love, and hope, I extend my heartfelt Christmas greetings to you and your families. Christmas is a time to reflect on the boundless love of God, exemplified through the birth of Jesus Christ, whose life inspires us to embrace compassion, generosity, and unity,” Governor Ododo said.
Governor Duoye Diri of Bayelsa State Douye Diri admonished Christians and privileged individuals to reach out to those who do not have to enable them to celebrate Christmas.
The Bayelsa helmsman acknowledged the difficult economic times in the country but added that the period would soon be over.
His words: “Christians have reason to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. I also believe that no matter the hardship and hunger in the country, everyone will have something to eat this season if we learn to share even the little we have.
“For those who have, always give to those who do not have. If you are an official of government, please share with those who do not have.
“Everybody cannot reach the governor or the deputy governor. That is why we have over 5,000 appointees and if all of them open their hands, I am sure that 80-90 per cent of Bayelsans will have something to eat.”
In his festive goodwill message, Governor Soludo of Anambra State noted that “this special season reminds us of God’s boundless love and the enduring spirit of hope that the birth of Jesus Christ brings to humanity. Indeed, sharing love and embracing hope are the redeeming essence of Christmas.”
The Governor thus urged Anambra people and all Nigerians to demonstrate selfless love to one another and also keep hope alive in the face of challenges this season. At the same time, he wished the various families who lost their loved ones in the sad recent Okija stampede the strength to bear the loss.
In his Christmas message released by his Chief Press Secretary, Nsa Gill, Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State reminded everyone of the true spirit of Christmas, highlighting the importance of unity and love in overcoming challenges.
Acknowledging the economic challenges faced by individuals and families nationwide, he emphasizes that these difficulties are not unique to Cross River.
“We are planting seeds for economic turnaround and significant progress in our state and country,” he affirmed.
“As we celebrate this Christmas, let us spread love, kindness, and unity throughout our communities,” Governor Otu concluded. “Together, we can drive the continued development and prosperity of Cross River State and Nigeria as a whole. Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year to everyone!”
Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, has urged the Christians to use Christmas season to pray for prevailing peace across Nigeria as well as quick economic recovery.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary Ahmed Idris, the governor advised the Christians to see Christmas as a period of prayer, showing love and of course a period of sober reflection.
Ondo State governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, urged the people of the state to spread the virtues of love, kindness, and generosity at Christmas.
The governor stated this in a message to the people of the State in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan.
“Christmas is not just a day; it is a frame of mind. A good conscience is a continual Christmas. Our celebration must embody the virtues and principles of Christ, for Jesus Christ is the reason for this season.
“This season is a testament to divine goodwill towards mankind, unfolding the great plan of redemption, worship, and praise to the Almighty God for His benevolence,” he said.
