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From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
Former president, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, have called on citizens to embrace hope, unity and a renewed commitment to the nation’s shared destiny.
In separate messages, the calling on Christians to reflect on virtues of love, unity and peace.
Dr. Jonathan reflected on the profound significance of Christmas as the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ and God’s enduring promise of redemption and peace, urging citizens to draw strength from faith, hope, and unity amid ongoing national challenges.
“Christmas is a season that reminds us of the power of faith,
humility, and selfless service, and of the enduring light that shines even in times of uncertainty,” he said.
Acknowledging the economic and social difficulties confronting many Nigerians, the former president urged citizens not to surrender to despair but to remain hopeful and resilient.
“The history of faith teaches us that hope is most powerful when it is tested. Just as the birth of Christ brought a new dawn to a world in search of direction, our collective faith and resilience will see us triumph over our present trials,” Dr. Jonathan stated. He further emphasized the importance of peace, unity, and national cohesion, describing them as Nigeria’s greatest strengths.
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“Our shared humanity and our willingness to live with compassion, mutual respect, and responsibility toward one another remain the foundation of a stronger nation,” he noted, calling on Nigerians to use the Christmas season to promote understanding and goodwill.
Dr. Jonathan concluded by wishing all Nigerians a season filled with peace, joy, and hope. “Merry Christmas, and may the New Year bring renewed blessings to our nation,” he said.
In his seasonal message, Wike described Christmas as “the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ,” a global season of “joy, giving, sharing, and good neighbourliness.” He felicitated with Christians in the FCT, urging them to use the period for “sober reflection” and to share “good tidings and goodwill towards fellow residents,” fostering “peace, harmony and prosperity” in the nation’s capital.
The minister enjoined residents to rededicate themselves to Christ’s teachings. “I enjoin our Christian residents to use the occasion of Christmas to reflect and to rededicate themselves to the virtues of love, unity and peace which are the recurrent themes of the message of Jesus Christ,” he stated.
Wike highlighted the year’s progress, noting “monumental developments” across sectors. “Schools have been renovated, hospitals staffed and equipped, roads and bridges constructed in every area council, the judiciary supported and security enhanced. Indeed, it has been a year of remarkable achievements,” he said, thanking residents for their cooperation.
He expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his support, alongside partners, stakeholders, and FCT staff. Looking ahead, Wike reaffirmed the administration’s commitment: “I further reassure residents that the FCT Administration will continue to remain steadfast in its task of providing infrastructure and services that will have the greatest positive impacts on the lives of residents in the FCT.”
Wike called for vigilance. “I further urge all FCT residents to be mindful of their security responsibilities during the festivities… report suspicious activities within your environment to the security agencies,” he advised, assuring that “necessary arrangements have been made to ensure that FCT residents commemorate this occasion in a safe, secure and joyful atmosphere.”
Wike concluded with prayers for Nigeria’s leaders and a final wish: “Once again, on behalf of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, I wish FCT residents a Merry Christmas. Happy celebrations.”
