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From Charity Nwakaudu, Abuja and Agaju Madugba, Katsina
The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has urged Nigerians to rise above religious, ethnic and regional differences, stressing that unity remains the country’s greatest strength.
In a 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.”
NEF 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.
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Meanwhile, Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has urged Christians to reflect on the teachings of Jesus Christ, particularly his messages of love, sacrifice, peace and compassion toward humanity.
The governor described Christmas as a significant period for Christians to renew their commitment to the values that promote peaceful coexistence and national unity.
“As we celebrate this joyous season, I call on all Christians to embrace the spirit of love and tolerance that Christ exemplified throughout his earthly ministry.”
Radda called for sustained collaboration between Christians, Muslims and people of other faiths in the state, noting that religious tolerance and mutual respect are essential ingredients for development and progress.
“When we stand together in unity, we become stronger and more capable of overcoming the challenges facing our state and nation.”
He assured Christians in Katsina State of his administration’s commitment to protecting their rights, ensuring their safety, and creating an enabling environment where all citizens practise their faith without fear or hindrance.
Similarly, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Kano State shapter, Rt. Rev. John Namaza Niyiring, also urged Christians to convert their parishes, families and institutions during and after the Christmas to places of welcome, reconciliation and compassion for the poor, the sick, the displaced and for those all who feel forgotten
Niyiring, in his 2025 Christmas message read in Kano on Wednesday , also prayed that the celebration of the birth of Christ should deepen our faith, strengthen our unity, renew our commitment to God’s gospel and bring peace to our hearts and homes.
He insisted that, “In a world increasingly marked by fear and anxiety, the celebration of Christmas renews our confidence in God’s abiding presence in our lives” adding that, “ God comes among us in Jesus Christ, bringing light to our darkness and hope to our troubled hearts”
He prayed to God to help the Church proclaim the coming of Christ with renewed faith and courage –not only in words but in lives shaped by charity, justice and peace.
The Bishop also prayed that our proclamation should offer reassurance to the fearful , healing to the wounded and hope to all who seek meaning and direction.
