- Let’s renew our hope, belief in Nigeria – Tinubu
- Akpabio urges Nigerians to show love, unity
- Celebrating Christ’s birth amid adversity a blessing – Atiku
- Omo-Agege, Kalu, Abiodun, Diri, Sanwo-Olu, Wike express optimism in Nigeria’s fortunes
President Bola Tinubu and other eminent Nigerians have called for tolerance, unity among the people, love and forgiveness as citizens of the country join Christendom to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.
President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, a former Deputy President of the Senate, Ovie Omo-Agege, governors and other eminent citizens in their separate seasonal messages to Nigerians, harped on the need for them to reflect on the occasion and imbibe the virtues of Jesus Christ, in whose honour Christmas is being celebrated.
Let’s renew our hope, belief in Nigeria, Tinubu preaches
President Bola Tinubu called on Nigerians to embrace love, peace, and unity during the festive season, urging citizens to remain hopeful about the nation’s future.
In his Christmas message released on Tuesday, the President described Christmas as a season of divine prophecy fulfilled, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and the enduring strength of humanity’s shared faith.
“Christmas embodies the fulfillment of divine prophecy and symbolizes the triumph of love, peace, and unity. It reminds us that light can emerge even in the darkest times, bringing solace and hope,” Tinubu stated.
The President expressed deep sorrow over recent tragic incidents in Ibadan, Okija, and Abuja, which claimed innocent lives.
“Our thoughts are with those who continue to suffer from these heartbreaking events. We pray that such misfortunes do not revisit our families and communities,” he said.
He also extended his sympathies to families who have endured pain and loss this year due to floods, fires, or accidents, calling on Nigerians to find comfort in faith and the support of loved ones.
“Our compassionate and merciful God stands with the weak, the brokenhearted, and the sick,” he added.
Tinubu urged Nigerians to support those facing difficulties, reminding citizens that acts of kindness need not be limited by financial status.
“Kindness transcends financial status. A smile or a word of encouragement can uplift even those with modest means,” he said.
The President also called for prayers and support for Nigeria’s troops, who risk their lives to protect the nation, as well as for leaders striving to foster national development.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring Nigeria’s prosperity, assuring citizens of a bright future.
“Nigeria is on a promising path of restoration and progress. Let us renew our hope and belief in a prosperous Nigeria,” he said.
Addressing Nigerians traveling for the festivities, the President wished them safe journeys and highlighted government efforts to ensure secure and convenient transportation.
“To ease your travels, we are providing free train services and subsidized road transport costs on 144 routes nationwide,” Tinubu disclosed.
Akpabio urges Nigerians to show love, unity
President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has also admonished Nigerians to use the occasion of Christmas as an avenue to exude peace, love and unity.
Akpabio in a Christmas message signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh, said the festive period calls for celebration and reflection.
He said, “In the spirit of the season, I encourage you all to spread love, kindness, and generosity. Let us remember those in need and offer a helping hand as much as possible.
“As we gather with family and friends, let us also remember the true essence of Christmas: peace, love, and unity. May these values guide us as we strive to build a better Nigeria for all.”
The Senate President noted that Jesus Christ was given to peace and love and therefore, very generous adding that his birthday should be an occasion of joy and merriment.
“This special time of the year is a moment for reflection, gratitude, and celebration”, he said.
On behalf of my family, constituents, the Senate and indeed the National Assembly, I extend my warmest wishes to all Nigerians and their loved ones.
“I wish you all a joyous and merry Christmas and God’s abundant blessings.”
Celebrating Christ’s birth amid adversity a blessing – Atiku
Also, the 2023 Presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, has extended heartfelt Christmas felicitations to the Christian community in Nigeria as they celebrate the 2024 commemoration of the birth of Jesus Christ.
The former Vice President, in a statement by his media adviser, Paul Ibe, on Tuesday, urged Nigerians to embrace a life of love and unity, drawing inspiration from the joyous spirit of the Christmas season.
The statement read in part, “Atiku Abubakar, the former Vice President of Nigeria and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, extends heartfelt Christmas felicitations to the Christian community in Nigeria as they celebrate the 2024 commemoration of the birth of Jesus Christ.
“In his message, Atiku implored Nigerians to embrace a life of love and unity, drawing inspiration from the joyous spirit of the Christmas season.
“He urged citizens to be guided by compassion and selflessness, encouraging them to cherish the significance of Christmas as a time for reflection and togetherness.
“Atiku reminded Nigerians, particularly Christians, to express gratitude for the arrival of the Christmas season despite the many challenges and hardships confronting the nation. It is a blessing that we can once again celebrate the events leading to the birth of Christ, despite the adversity we face.”
Atiku criticised the absence of effective leadership, which has led to widespread suffering and avoidable deaths throughout the country.
The statement continued, “The Waziri Adamawa, however, did not shy away from pointing out the failure of current political leaders to make the necessary sacrifices for the nation’s collective good. He condemned the lack of leadership, which has resulted in widespread suffering and preventable deaths across the country.
“Yet, despite these grave challenges, Atiku appealed to Nigerians to remain united, to embrace one another with love, and to confront the root cause of their struggles — poor leadership.
“With love and unity, there is no obstacle too great to overcome. Let us, therefore, come together to share love and joy with all people of goodwill.”
Omo-Agege expresses optimism in Nigeria’s fortunes
Despite the lingering economic challenges facing Nigeria, the immediate past Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, has affirmed his conviction that the economy is already turning the corner and returning to prosperity.
In his Christmas message he personally signed, Senator Omo-Agege acknowledged that the recent reforms introduced by the federal government have caused hardship for many Nigerians. However, he noted that the economy is already witnessing positive gains, including improved growth rates.
Omo-Agege who was the APC flag bearer in the 2023 governorship election in Delta State decried the “unacceptable” numerous challenges facing the state.
“We acknowledge that the recent reforms have caused hardship for many Nigerians, particularly with the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of the naira’s multiple exchange rates. Nonetheless, it’s essential to recognize that these reforms are designed to address decades of economic mismanagement and put Nigeria on a path to sustainable growth.
“The reforms are crucial for transitioning our economy from import-dependent to self-sufficient, productive, and job-creating. Achieving this ambitious long-term goal requires patience and perseverance. “Encouragingly, we are already witnessing positive gains, including improved growth rates, reduced imports, increased exports, higher incomes for farmers, and increased FAAC allocations to state and local governments.
“These gains demonstrate that the reforms are yielding positive results, and with continued patience and perseverance, Nigeria can overcome current challenges and emerge stronger, more resilient, and more prosperous,” he noted.
However, he declared his optimism about the country’s future. “The government’s economic reforms, although challenging, are a necessary step towards a more prosperous future.”
Omo-Agege restated his displeasure with the performance of Sheriff Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State.
“Delta State continues to face numerous challenges, including insecurity, poor infrastructure, inadequate healthcare, a struggling economy, and underpaid workers. The failure of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration to effectively utilize the over N900 billion revenue to cushion the inevitable pains of economic reforms is unacceptable. Many communities are left in dire need due to the lack of transparency and accountability in fund allocation.
“Despite its huge potential, agriculture has been neglected, unlike in many other states. This sector is crucial for providing food, creating jobs, and stimulating economic growth. In fact, agriculture contributes significantly to the global economy, providing employment, raw materials, and economic development opportunities.
“Through prioritizing agriculture, Delta State can unlock its economic potential, reduce poverty, and improve the livelihoods of its citizens. This misalignment between the Governor’s priorities and the people’s needs must be addressed to ensure a brighter future for Delta State,” the Obarisi of Urhoboland declared.
He reiterated his commitment to “driving change and ushering in a new era of progress and prosperity for our beloved state.” According to him, “As your opposition leader, my vision is for a Delta State where every citizen has access to quality education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and a living wage. Let’s work together to make this vision a reality.
“As we move forward, it is crucial that we collaborate to build a brighter future for our nation. With perseverance and collective support, we can overcome current hardships and emerge stronger, more resilient, and more prosperous.”
As 2025 rolls in, he urged Nigerians to “rally behind President Tinubu’s administration as they steer Nigeria through a critical economic restructuring process and implement the Budget of Restoration: Securing Peace, Rebuilding Prosperity. Let’s remain optimistic and supportive as Nigeria navigates this critical phase of economic transformation.”
He wished Deltans and Nigerians “Merry Christmas, and may the New Year bring us peace, prosperity, and happiness.”
Deputy speaker urges Christians to show love
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has urged Nigerians, particularly Christians to spread love and acts of kindness as they celebrate this year’s Christmas.
In a message issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Speaker, Levinus Nwabughiogu on Tuesday, Kalu emphasised the significance of Christmas and called on Nigerians to use the occasion to show empathy, love and generosity to one another.
Kalu, who represents Bende Federal Constituency, Abia State, noted that Christmas represents a time of hope, renewal, and celebration, reminding mankind of the importance of kindness, compassion, generosity, and love.
“As we mark the birth of Jesus Christ, who brought light and redemption to humanity, let us reflect on the values that he embodied: love, forgiveness, and selflessness.
“May His example inspire us to spread love, kindness, and compassion to all those around us, especially those who may be struggling,” Kalu said.
Kalu also expressed his confidence in the government of President Bola Tinubu, assuring Nigerians that the future looks promising.
He urged the citizens to remain steadfast in their faith and to continue praying for the country’s leadership, stressing that in no distant time, the country would prosper on all fronts.
Stay hopeful, support Tinubu’s reform, Abiodun urges Nigerians
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has equally extended his felicitations to Christians on this year’s Christmas celebrations while urging Nigerians to look beyond the current economic challenges and remain optimistic about a brighter future.
The governor emphasised the importance of all Nigerians rededicating themselves to the growth and development of the nation and demonstrating patriotism by supporting the reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu.
In his Christmas message to the people of Ogun State on Tuesday, Abiodun assured them that “there is certainly light at the end of the tunnel” for all Nigerians.
He also called on the state’s residents to exhibit tolerance, regardless of religious differences, as a means of fostering harmony and sustainable peace.
Abiodun highlighted the positive effects of President Tinubu’s economic reforms, noting that these measures are already yielding encouraging results, with signs of recovery in the economy.
The governor further detailed the proactive steps his administration has taken to combat inflation, including the distribution of palliatives, the adoption of Compressed Natural Gas, the introduction of electric-powered bicycles, and various support initiatives for farmers across the state.
He reaffirmed his commitment to prioritising projects that improve the lives of Ogun State residents, ensuring their living standards remain elevated.
“As we celebrate this special season in moderation, let us all remember that the current economic challenges facing our nation are temporary, and a brighter future awaits us.
“We must support the reforms initiated by President Bola Tinubu aimed at revitalising our previously weakened economy and ensuring prosperity.
This is not rocket science, as we are already witnessing positive impacts across all sectors,” the governor stated.
Let’s help the needy, Governor Diri urges Christians
The Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has also admonished Christians and privileged individuals to reach out to those who do not have to enable them to celebrate Christmas.
Senator Diri gave the admonition during the state’s 2024 Christmas Carol of Nine Lessons at the DSP Alamieyeseigha Banquet Hall in Yenagoa.
The governor also urged his appointees to share whatever they got from the government with others, noting that if those privileged at this time learn to be their brother’s keeper, majority of Bayelsans and, indeed, Nigerians would have food to eat during the yuletide.
Senator Diri said the most important lesson about Christmas should be selfless love and sacrifice shown towards others.
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 the 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.”
The governor also enjoined Bayelsans to use the season to reflect and appreciate what God had done in their lives as individuals and as a state.
The colourful and well-attended event had choristers from the state executive council, legislature, judiciary, civil service and the state mass choir among others.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has rejoiced with residents of the State, particularly the Christians as they join the rest of the world to celebrate this year’s Christmas, which marks the birth of Jesus Christ.
Speaking at the Lagos House, Marina on Tuesday during the presentation of a book, titled “Beyond Rhetorics: Sanwo-Olu Unprecedented” which was written in his honour by the Lagos State Governors Office Correspondents, Governor Sanwo-Olu assured that his administration will do more for Lagos residents next year.
“We wish you all the very best of the season. We say to you that, next year, we will work better, smarter, bigger for the citizens of Lagos,” he said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, while appreciating LAGOCO for the book, described journalists, particularly those covering the Lagos State Governor’s Office as the “real engine of growth.”
He said, “We want to assure you that we will not disappoint you. We will ensure that the book is available in every nook and cranny of the State and even beyond the state.
“Through its pages, readers will find insights into the governance and leadership principles that guide our administration, as well as the collaborative spirit that drives our vision for a better Lagos.
“I extend my gratitude to LAGOCO for this initiative and to everyone who has contributed to the creation of this book. Together, we will continue to work towards a Lagos that is not only a hub of innovation and opportunity but also a beacon of hope for future generations.”
Wike urges residents to obey God’s commandments
The Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, on Tuesday, urged residents of the FCT to rededicate themselves to God and keep to his commandments, in the spirit of the Christmas season.
In a Christmas message signed by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication and New Media, Olalere Olayinka, the minister again sympathised with families of the stampede victims, while urging Christians to obey God’s commandments.
“I congratulate all residents of the Federal Capital Territory for the grace of celebrating another Christmas. It is my prayer that the good Lord who made this possible will ensure that we all celebrate many more Christmas in good health.
“Christians, in particular, should continue to be obedient to the commandments of God as done by Jesus Christ, because He made it very clear that those who follow Him and aspire to His Kingdom have a perpetual obligation to obey and uphold God’s law.
“Once again, I also sympathise with families of victims of the recent stampedes in Abuja. I pray that God in His infinite mercies will grant them fortitude to bear the irreparable loss”, the statement partly read.
Wike also encouraged residents to be hopeful stating that “With the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, things will keep getting better.”
