.Tinubu Felicitates Christians, Calls For Renewed Hope
.Atiku preaches love, unity
.Let’s remember true essence of Christmas – Akpabio
By Paul Effiong and Caleb Ishaya, Abuja
Once again christians enjoin other faithful across the world to celebrate Christmas today.
The celebration marks the birthday of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem.
In a message to celebrate the day President Bola Tinubu, yesterday urged Nigerians to renew hope and belief in a prosperous Nigeria in the spirit of the season.
Tinubu, in his annual christmas message said “on this joyous Christmas Day, I extend my heartfelt greetings to Christians across Nigeria and worldwide as we celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, as narrated in the Holy Scripture.
“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”, the President wrote.
He said that recent tragic events in Ibadan, Okija, and Abuja deeply saddened him and all Nigerians.
“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”.
Tinubu offered his sympathies to the families enduring pain and loss this year, whether from floods, fires, 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”, he said.
According to the President, kindness transcends financial status, and that those with modest means and those with abundance need a smile or a word of encouragement.
“We must also honour our brave troops, who risk their lives to safeguard our nation. They deserve our prayers and steadfast support.
“Let us extend similar support and prayers to our nation’s leaders. With your backing, we can serve our country diligently and strive for prosperity”, wrote Tinubu.
He said Nigeria was on a promising path of restoration and progress, with every indication pointing toward a bright future.
“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”, concluded the President.
Similarly, former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has implored Nigerians to embrace a life of love and unity, drawing inspiration from the joyous spirit of the Christmas season.
Abubakar, made the call in a Christmas message personally signed by him on yesterday, in Abuja.
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.
Abubakar, 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”, he said..
The former vice-president also advised political leaders to make the necessary sacrifices for the nation’s collective good.
Abubakar appealed to Nigerians to remain united and embrace one another with love, to overcome obstacles and challenges.
“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,” he declared.
Abubakar, wished all Nigerians a blessed Christmas, filled with peace, happiness, and hope for the future
For his part President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has urged Nigerians to use the occasion of Christmas as an avenue to exude peace, love and unity.
Akpabio, in a Christmas message issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh in Abuja, yesterday, said that the festive period called 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 said that Jesus Christ was given to peace and love and was, therefore, very generous, adding that the celebration of his birth should be an occasion of joy and merriment.
“This special time of the year is a moment for reflection, gratitude and celebration”, he said.
Akpabio, on behalf of his family, constituents, the senate and the National Assembly, extended his warmest wishes to all Nigerians and their loved ones.
“I wish you all a joyous and merry Christmas and God’s abundant blessings,” he said.
