Tinubu, Atiku, Sanwo-Olu, Abiodun, other Govs reflect on Christmas, call for sacrifices, togetherness
…Let us rise above division, celebrate each other’s successes – Atiku tells Nigerians
…Gov Alia extends Christmas, New Year holidays for Benue workers
By Our Correspondents
As Nigerians join the global Christian community in celebrating Christmas today, prominent political leaders, including President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, and other state governors, have called for unity, selflessness, and sacrifices.
Reflecting on the true spirit of the season, these leaders urged citizens to embrace love and togetherness in the face of the nation’s ongoing challenges.
President Bola Tinubu extended his warmest Christmas greetings to Nigerians, reflecting on the season’s significance and calling for unity, compassion, and support for those in need.
In a heartfelt message, the President expressed his solidarity with those affected by recent tragedies and reaffirmed Nigeria’s promising future despite challenges.
In his message, President Tinubu, who personally signed the statement, acknowledged the importance of Christmas as a time to celebrate love, peace, and unity, as well as the fulfillment of divine prophecy through the birth of Jesus Christ.
He reminded Nigerians that even in dark times, hope can emerge, and that this season offers an opportunity for reflection, renewal, and kindness.
“Christmas embodies the fulfillment of divine prophecy and symbolises the triumph of love, peace, and unity,” Tinubu stated. “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 also expressed deep sympathy for the families affected by recent tragic incidents in Ibadan, Okija, and Abuja, emphasising that his thoughts are with those suffering from loss and hardship.
“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 added.
The President’s message extended a special note of comfort to those who have suffered loss this year due to natural disasters, accidents, and other calamities, urging Nigerians to find strength in their faith, the support of loved ones, and the enduring presence of Christ.
“As we celebrate this blessed season, let us be mindful of those facing difficulties. They are not far from us—our neighbors, family members, and the people we encounter daily, whether in places of worship, markets, offices, or boardrooms,” Tinubu remarked, calling for greater acts of kindness, regardless of financial status.
He emphasised that kindness transcends wealth, with even a smile or a word of encouragement being a powerful form of support.
Tinubu also took time to honour the nation’s troops, who he said continue to risk their lives to ensure the safety of the country. “We must also honor our brave troops, who risk their lives to safeguard our nation. They deserve our prayers and steadfast support,” he said.
He also mentioned the provision of free train services and subsidised road transport costs on 144 routes nationwide, aimed at easing travel across the country.
Also, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on Nigerians to embrace unity, love, and selflessness during the festive season. In a statement released on Tuesday, December 24, 2024, Atiku, through his spokesman, Paul Ibe, encouraged citizens to reflect on the significance of Christmas and draw inspiration from its message of hope and goodwill.
“At this time of the year, when we come together to celebrate the birth of Christ, we are reminded of the power of compassion, sacrifice, and unity,” Atiku said in the message.
“In the face of our nation’s many challenges, it is imperative that we embrace love and selflessness. Only through these virtues can we overcome the adversities that have defined our recent history.”
The former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) also lamented the ongoing economic difficulties, which he attributed to poor leadership at the helm of the nation. He pointed to the widespread suffering and preventable deaths that have affected millions of Nigerians as a direct result of inadequate governance.
“We are witnessing a lack of leadership that has led to an escalation of hardships and suffering. This Christmas, we must not only celebrate but also reflect on the necessity for a change in leadership that prioritizes the well-being of all Nigerians,” Atiku added.
The ex-Vice President urged Nigerians, particularly Christians, to express gratitude for the Christmas season, despite the country’s struggles.
“It is a blessing that we can once again celebrate the events leading to the birth of Christ, despite the adversity we face. This is a time for reflection and gratitude,” he said.
Furthermore, Atiku called on the leadership of the country to make the necessary sacrifices for the collective good of the nation, rather than focusing on partisan or self-interests.
He emphasized that true progress and national unity could only be achieved if citizens and leaders alike embraced the spirit of sacrifice and worked together.
“Let us rise above division, celebrate each other’s successes, and support one another in times of need. With love and unity, no obstacle is too great to overcome,” he added.
In a related development, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has sent his warm Christmas greetings to all residents of the state, especially the Christian community, as they join the global celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.
In a special address delivered at the Lagos House, Marina, on Tuesday, during the presentation of a book titled “Beyond Rhetorics: Sanwo-Olu Unprecedented”, written in his honour by the Lagos State Governor’s Office Correspondents (LAGOCO), Sanwo-Olu conveyed his heartfelt wishes for a joyous holiday season and reassured Lagosians of his administration’s commitment to delivering even greater results in the coming year.
“We wish you all the very best of the season. We say to you that next year, we will work better, smarter, and bigger for the citizens of Lagos,” Governor Sanwo-Olu stated, stating that his government would make more impactful strides in 2025.
The book, which reflects on the leadership style and governance achievements of Sanwo-Olu, was hailed by the governor as an important testament to the progress and principles guiding his administration.
He expressed his deep appreciation to the LAGOCO for their dedication in creating the book, which he said would offer valuable insights into the vision, leadership, and collaborative spirit that have driven Lagos toward becoming a hub of innovation and opportunity.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also praised the journalists covering the Lagos State Government, describing them as the “real engine of growth,” and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring the book reaches every part of the state and beyond.
“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,” he added.
Sanwo-Olu also expressed his gratitude to everyone who contributed to the creation of the book, noting that, as a united team, they would continue to work toward building a Lagos that serves as a beacon of hope for future generations.
Also, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has extended his Christmas greetings to Christians across the state, urging them to remain optimistic despite the ongoing economic challenges.
In his message, delivered on Tuesday in Abeokuta, Abiodun assured Nigerians that there is light at the end of the tunnel and encouraged them to stay hopeful about a better tomorrow.
“As we celebrate this special season in moderation, let us all keep in mind that the present economic challenges facing our nation are ephemeral and there is a bigger picture of hope ahead,” the governor stated.
He stressed the importance of looking beyond the current difficulties, focusing on the positive outcomes that are beginning to emerge from the reforms introduced by the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
Abiodun also called for greater tolerance and unity among Nigerians, urging them to put aside religious differences and work together for the greater good of the country.
He stressed that harmony and sustainable peace are essential for the nation’s growth and development.
Reaffirming his commitment to the welfare of the people of Ogun State, the governor pledged to continue prioritising projects that would uplift living standards and create lasting benefits for residents.
He expressed confidence that the economic recovery efforts, spearheaded by President Tinubu’s administration, would soon yield more tangible results.
In the same vein, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has sent heartfelt Christmas greetings to Christians in the state, urging them to spread love and offer prayers for the well-being and prosperity of both the state and Nigeria.
In his Christmas message on Tuesday, Makinde called on residents to make the most of the festive season by focusing on unity, love, and community spirit.
“Christmas presents another opportunity to spread love and to make supplications for our state and our country,” Makinde stated, emphasising the need for collective prayer and reflection during the holiday season.
He also expressed sympathy for those mourning the loss of children in the recent stampede, offering his condolences and prayers for the families affected.
The governor encouraged the people of Oyo State to celebrate responsibly, ensuring crowd control and, when necessary, collaborating with security agencies to maintain peace and safety. He also urged vigilance, reminding residents to report any suspicious activities to the security agencies through the State Emergency Number 615.
“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,” he said. “As we always say, if you see something, say something and the government will do something.”
Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has extended heartfelt Christmas greetings to the Christian community in the state, urging them to reflect on the true essence of the season.
The Governor, in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, highlighted the need for individuals to embody the lessons of Christmas in their daily lives. He encouraged Kwarans to foster love, kindness, and compassion in their interactions with others, in the spirit of the season.
“As we celebrate this momentous event, let us take time to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas,” the Governor stated. “May we continue to uphold the virtues of love, kindness, and unity in our communities.”
Meanwhile, Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has announced an extension of the Christmas and New Year holidays for state government employees, running from December 24, 2024, to January 6, 2025.
In his festive message to the people of Benue, Governor Alia expressed his heartfelt greetings and best wishes for the holiday season.
He noted that Christmas is a time for reflection, gratitude, and strengthening family bonds. The governor called on all residents to embrace love, unity, and selfless service during the season, highlighting the importance of these values in building a harmonious and prosperous society.
Likewise Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has called on Christians and privileged individuals to extend their generosity to the less fortunate this Christmas, emphasising the importance of sharing even the little we have to ensure no one is left hungry during the festive period.
The governor made the appeal during the 2024 Christmas Carol of Nine Lessons, held at the DSP Alamieyeseigha Banquet Hall in Yenagoa, where he underscored that the essence of Christmas lies in selfless love and sacrifice for others.
“Christians have reason to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ,” Governor Diri said. “Despite the hardship and hunger facing the country, I am confident that everyone will have something to eat this season if we learn to share what we have, no matter how little.”
In his message, Diri urged government officials and those in positions of privilege to set an example by sharing with those in need. He pointed out that while not everyone may have direct access to the state’s top leadership, Bayelsa’s over 5,000 appointees have the capacity to make a significant impact by reaching out to the less fortunate.
“For those who have, always give to those who do not have,” he added. “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 percent of Bayelsans will have something to eat.”
The governor also took the opportunity to acknowledge the difficult economic times in the country but reassured Bayelsans that this period of hardship would soon pass.
He emphasised that the Christmas season should be a time for reflection, gratitude, and a renewed sense of community and service to others.
