AS Nigerians celebrate Christmas Day, President Bola Tinubu, the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio; governors and other notable personalities, yesterday, told citizens not to lose hope, saying the country was on a promising path of restoration and progress, with every indication pointing toward a bright future.

President Tinubu in his Christmas message, said Christmas embodied the fulfilment of divine prophecy and symbolised the triumph of love, peace, and unity.

He urged Nigerians in the spirit of the season, to renew their hope and belief in a prosperous country.

The message read: “On this joyous Christmas Day, I extend my heartfelt greetings to Christians across Nigeria and worldwide as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, as narrated in the Holy scriptures.
‘’Christmas embodies the fulfilment of divine prophecy and symbolises the triumph of love, peace, and unity. It is a poignant reminder that light can emerge even in the darkest times, bringing solace and hope. This belief resonates with people of all faiths. Indeed, God is with us.

“Recent tragic events in Ibadan, Okija, and Abuja deeply sadden us, and our thoughts are with those who continue to suffer from these heartbreaking incidents. We earnestly pray that such misfortunes do not revisit our families and communities and that the lives of innocents are never again cut short.

“I offer my deepest sympathies to the families enduring pain and loss this year, whether from floods, fire, or accidents. May we all find comfort and solace in our faith, the support of loved ones, and the abiding presence of Jesus Christ. Our compassionate and merciful God stands with the weak, the brokenhearted, and the sick.

“As we celebrate this blessed season, let us be mindful of those facing difficulties. They are not far from us—our neighbours, family members, and the people we encounter daily, whether in places of worship, markets, offices, or boardrooms.

“Kindness transcends financial status. Those with modest means and those with abundance need a smile or a word of encouragement.

“With your backing, we can serve our country diligently and strive for prosperity.

“Nigeria is on a promising path of restoration and progress, with every indication pointing toward a bright future. In the spirit of this season, let us renew our hope and belief in a prosperous Nigeria.

“For those travelling during this festive period, I wish you safe journeys. Rest assured, the government is taking all necessary steps to ensure our transportation routes are secure and convenient. We also provide free train services and subsidized road transport costs on 144 routes nationwide to ease your travels.”

Akpabio, Barau urge Nigerians to show love, unity

On his part, President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, admonished Nigerians to use the occasion of Christmas as an avenue to exude peace, love and unity.

Akpabio, in a Christmas message by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Eseme Eyiboh, 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.”

In his goodwill message, the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, urged citizens to intensify prayers for the country’s peace, unity and progress.

Barau, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, said: “I rejoice with the Christian faithful and all Nigerians on this year’s Christmas. This year has presented us with challenges, but it has also shown our resilience, courage and determination as a people.

“Let us remain hopeful and steadfast in our collective pursuit for a brighter and more prosperous Nigeria.”

Use Christmas to deepen love, harmonious relationship —Oyebanji

Similarly, Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State urged Nigerians to use the Christmas period to deepen love and harmonious relationship among themselves in order to have a better society.

The governor, in a Christmas message by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, said: “As we rejoice at this momentous occasion, the true essence of the season must not be lost on us.

‘’We should reflect on the birth of Jesus Christ and its significance to mankind. This offers an opportunity to deepen love for ourselves and strengthen our harmonious relationships.

“Let us be our brothers’ keepers by showing love and compassion to one another as exemplified our Lord Jesus Christ whose birth we are celebrating this season.”

Better days are ahead — Delta gov

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, in his message of hope, unity, and goodwill, urged Nigerians to set aside primordial divisions and focus on the collective progress of the country.

Oborevwori in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, said: “Christmas is not just a time for merriment; it is a season of reflection and renewal.

“It reminds us of the boundless love and selflessness that Jesus Christ demonstrated during his time on earth.

SOURCE: VANGUARD