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From Charity Nwakaudu, Abuja
The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has sent a strong message of unity to Nigerians this Christmas, drawing inspiration from both the Holy Qur’an and the Holy Bible to call for peace, love, and national cohesion.
In a Christmas message released to journalists in Abuja, the Forum urged Nigerians to rise above religious, ethnic, and regional differences, stressing that unity remains the country’s greatest strength.
The elders extended warm Christmas greetings to Christians in Northern Nigeria and across the country, while wishing all Nigerians a peaceful end to the year and a hopeful New Year.
Speaking in the statement, NEF Spokesperson, Professor Abubakar Jika Jiddere, described Christmas as a season of reflection, renewal, and recommitment to values that promote peaceful coexistence.
“It is a moment that calls on individuals and nations alike to pause, look inward, and recommit to higher ideals,” he said.
Quoting the Bible, Jiddere recalled the message of peace and goodwill in Luke 2:14, which says: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men.”
According to him, the message aligns with Islamic teachings on human dignity and mutual respect.
He also quoted the Holy Qur’an (49:13), which teaches that mankind was created into nations and tribes to know one another, stressing that righteousness — not ethnicity or religion — defines true nobility before God.
“This guidance affirms that our diversity — religious, ethnic, and cultural — is a divine trust that must be protected through tolerance and understanding,” the Forum stated.
The Northern Elders warned that Nigeria is at a critical point where unity, love, and shared responsibility are urgently needed, urging citizens and leaders alike to reject hate and embrace peaceful dialogue.
They also appealed to Nigerians travelling for the festive season to prioritise safety.
“No celebration is complete if human life is lost or endangered,” the Forum warned, calling on road users to exercise caution and security agencies to remain vigilant.
Looking ahead to 2026, the elders expressed hope for a Nigeria guided by wisdom, justice, and compassion, adding that the nation can overcome its challenges with sincere leadership and responsible citizenship.
The Forum prayed that Christmas would bring comfort to Nigerian homes and that the New Year would usher in renewed hope, national healing, and stronger brotherhood across the country.
