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From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
The Archbishop of the Anglican Communion, Kaduna Province, Most Rev Timothy Yahaya, has said that the joy associated with Christmas celebration will overcome political bitterness and division in Nigeria.
Bishop Yahaya therefore called on Nigerians to use the Christmas season as a time for unity, compassion, and renewed prayers for the country.
“It is my hope that the joy of Christmas would overcome bitterness and division in the country, leading Nigerians towards unity and shared purpose in building a peaceful, prosperous, and great nation.
“At a time like this, let us remember the less privileged, pray for Nigeria, and pray for our security forces. Let us also pray that this country will maximise its potentials,” he said.
In his Christmas message on Thursday, the Archbishop described Christmas as a season of joy and salvation, reminding Nigerians that although salvation did not come instantly after the birth of Jesus Christ, it was ultimately fulfilled for the benefit of humanity.
He urged citizens to remember the less privileged, pray for Nigeria, and support security agencies working to protect lives and property.
Commenting on his participation in the recent Christmas carol organised by the Kaduna State Government in collaboration with Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), the cleric described the event as historic and symbolic.
He said the carol, the first of its kind since the creation of the state, reflected inclusive leadership and a renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence.
According to him, the gesture signified a return to the spirit of unity that once defined Kaduna State, where Christians and Muslims celebrated together without division.
“We have a leader who is a unifier and who wants to carry everyone along as citizens. This has brought joy to well-meaning residents of Kaduna State,” he said, expressing hope that the initiative would be sustained and replicated across the country.
The Archbishop also highlighted what he described as the “seven messages of Christmas,” drawn from John 3:16, stressing that Christmas begins with God and centres on love for humanity, irrespective of tribe, race, or religion.
He noted that the season emphasises giving, sacrifice, belief, and the consciousness of everlasting life, urging Nigerians not to reduce Christmas to mere celebrations without reflecting on its deeper meaning.
Archbishop Yahaya concluded by wishing Nigerians a joyful Christmas and praying for lasting peace, unity, and national renewal.
