- President Tinubu sent a message of hope and unity to Nigerians this Christmas
- Senate President Akpabio encouraged peace, love, and unity during the festive season
- Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin also urged Nigerians to pray for national progress and peace
The Christmas season saw Nigeria’s political leaders, including President Tinubu, Senate President Akpabio, and Deputy Senate President Barau, sharing messages of unity, peace, and renewed hope for the country’s future.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in his Christmas message, described the holiday as a symbol of divine fulfilment, representing the triumph of love, peace, and unity.
He urged Nigerians to embrace the spirit of the season and renew their hope in the country’s future.
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 subsidised road transport costs on 144 routes nationwide to ease your travels,” he added.
Akpabio calls for unity, generosity
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, through a statement from his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Eseme Eyiboh, called on citizens to use the occasion to foster peace, love, and unity, encouraging a collective spirit of goodwill.
“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.”
Jibrin urges Nigerians to remain steadfast in pursuit of national progress
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, in his message delivered by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, urged Nigerians to intensify prayers for the country's peace, unity, and progress in the coming year.
“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.”
FG declares Christmas, Boxing Day, New Year holidays
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the Federal Government announced December 25 (Christmas Day), December 26 (Boxing Day), and January 1, 2025 (New Year) as public holidays.
Minister of Interior Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo called for love, peace, and unity during the festive season.