President Bola Tinubu, on Tuesday, joined other leaders and prominent citizens to send goodwill message to Nigerians ahead of today’s celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ by Christians the world over.
Tinubu urged Nigerians to pray for their leaders to enable them serve diligently and strive for prosperity.
The president, in a message he personally signed, extended his heartfelt greetings to Nigerian Christians as they joined their counterparts globally to mark the birth of Jesus Christ.
In the spirit of the season, Tinubu asked Nigerians to remember the leaders and brave troops in their prayers as they served and secured the country.
He reassured Nigerians that the country was on the path of progress towards a brighter future for every citizen.
The president also sympathised with families that suffered human and material losses through floods, fires, and accidents in 2024.
Others who felicitated Christians on the occasion of Christmas included former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah.
Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike, and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu also greeted Christians at Christmas.
Tinubu, in his goodwill message, stated, “Dear fellow Nigerians, 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.”
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The president said, “Recent tragic events in Ibadan, Okija, and Abuja deeply sadden us, and our thoughts are with those who continue to suffer from these heart-breaking 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, 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 broken-hearted, 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.”
Tinubu said, “Kindness transcends financial status. 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.”
Commending the country’s journey so far, the president stated, “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.”
Tinubu also had a message for Yuletide travellers. “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,” he stated.
“We also provide free train services and subsidised road transport costs on 144 routes nationwide to ease your travels. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a joyous and prosperous New Year,” he added.
