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Tag: Christmas

  • Christmas eve accidents claim seven lives in Imo

    Christmas eve accidents claim seven lives in Imo

    Two persons have been confirmed dead after a bicycle conveying two youths rammed into a commercial jeep along Okigwe Road, Owerri, Imo State, on Christmas Eve.

    Eyewitnesses said the victims were riding on a small bike after a football training session in Orji, Owerri North Local Government Area, when they had a head-on collision with the jeep and died on the spot.

    The accident caused a massive traffic gridlock on the busy Okigwe Road, with traffic wardens struggling to control the situation as stranded Christmas travellers were left in distress.

    Angry youths reportedly swarmed the scene, triggering a chaotic stampede that further worsened the situation.

    An eyewitness, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the victims were from Amatta in Ikeduru Local Government Area and were returning from football training at Orji when the accident occurred.

    He added that the bodies of the deceased had been evacuated by an ambulance and taken to the mortuary.

    In a related incident, no fewer than five persons reportedly lost their lives in another fatal accident at Akabo Market in Ikeduru Local Government Area on Christmas Eve.

    According to eyewitness accounts, a truck lost control and rammed into the crowded market, crushing several people. One eyewitness described the scene as gory, noting that many of the victims died instantly.

    Confirming the development, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Henry Okoye, said he had not been officially briefed on the Akabo Market accident.

    However, he said investigations were ongoing to ascertain the cause of the Orji accident, which claimed the lives of two persons.

  • Christmas: Archbishop Yahaya calls for unity, compassion, prayers for Nigeria

    Christmas: Archbishop Yahaya calls for unity, compassion, prayers for Nigeria

    The Archbishop of Kaduna Province and Bishop of Kaduna Diocese, Most Rev. Timothy Yahaya, has called on Nigerians to use the Christmas season as a time for unity, compassion and renewed prayers for the country.

    In his Christmas message, 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.

    “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.

    Archbishop Yahaya expressed 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.

    Read Also: Christmas eve accidents claim seven lives in Imo

    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.

  • Christmas: Anglican Bishop urges Nigerians to embrace peace, unity

    Christmas: Anglican Bishop urges Nigerians to embrace peace, unity

    The Anglican Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Rt. Rev’d Prof. Samuel Ike, has urged Nigerians to allow Jesus Christ, to reign in their lives and national affairs, describing Christmas as a season of hope for a troubled world.

    In his 2025 Christmas message titled “Allow the Prince of Peace to Reign,” the Bishop said while Christmas is often associated with celebrations, reunions, and gift-giving, its true essence lies in God’s love and peace offered to humanity through the birth of Jesus Christ.

    He felicitated with Christians, leaders, and citizens of Enugu State and Nigeria at large, noting that the Christmas message remains one of “good tidings of great joy” despite changing times and generations.

    Reflecting on the state of the nation, Bishop Ike said the coming of Christ is particularly significant for Nigeria, which is grappling with insecurity, economic hardship, a failing healthcare system, and widespread injustice. 

    He lamented that many Nigerians did not live to see Christmas, while others are held captive by kidnappers or displaced by violence.

    While condemning terrorism and what he described as targeted attacks on Christians, the cleric called on the Federal Government to act decisively and justly, stressing that justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done.

    Bishop Ike said the recent sentencing of Nnamdi Kanu has further polarised the country along ethnic lines, with many Nigerians perceiving it as politically motivated. 

    He therefore appealed to President Bola Tinubu to pursue a political solution that would ease tensions in the Southeast and promote national unity.

    He also urged Nigerian leaders to rise above divisive rhetoric, especially on social media, and allow the spirit of Christmas to guide their decisions, noting that Nigeria can only regain its standing among nations when leaders submit to the reign of Christ.

    The Bishop prayed for Nigerian soldiers spending Christmas on the battlefield and for displaced persons in IDP camps across the country.

    Turning to Enugu State, Bishop Ike commended Governor Peter Mbah for what he described as a paradigm shift in governance, citing achievements in agriculture, infrastructure, healthcare, education, transportation, and security. 

    However, he appealed for a review of multiple taxation in the state, saying the burden is weighing heavily on residents and undermining livelihoods.

    He expressed confidence that the governor, whom he described as a listening leader, would respond compassionately in the spirit of the season.

  • AMG holds Asiwaju Christmas fiesta across Ondo, distributes gift items

    AMG holds Asiwaju Christmas fiesta across Ondo, distributes gift items

    In the spirit of the season and as part of its end-of-year engagements, the Asiwaju Mandate Group (AMG) has held a statewide celebration tagged Asiwaju Christmas Fiesta across the three Senatorial Districts of Ondo State. 

    The fiesta, which served as a unifying gathering for members, stakeholders, and supporters of the group, featured music, fellowship, and the sharing of goodwill in line with the values of the organisation.

    The celebration commenced on Sunday, December 21, in the Ondo North Senatorial District at the Cenotaph Centre, Ikare-Akoko, where performances by Sensational Kulubele and Akintayo of Bright Band thrilled the audience. 

    The fiesta continued on Monday, December 22, in the Ondo Central Senatorial District at the AMG Secretariat in Akure, with sensational performances by Kulubele and Sir Demola Suzzy. 

    The final leg of the celebration was held in the Ondo South Senatorial District at the AMG Secretariat along Ondo Road, Ore, where Bisi Alawiye entertained guests.

    Speaking at the event, the Director-General of the Asiwaju Mandate Group, Asiwaju Olumuyiwa Asagunla, described the fiesta as a celebration of unity, loyalty and appreciation for the unwavering commitment of members across the state. 

    He commended their dedication and urged them to remain united, focused and steadfast as the group continues to promote the progressive governance and people-centred leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

    Asagunla also paid glowing tribute to the Convener of the group and Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, describing him as a committed progressive whose leadership continues to inspire grassroots mobilisation and purposeful governance. 

    He noted that the vision, support and steadfast encouragement of the Minister have remained central to the growth and cohesion of the Asiwaju Mandate Group across Ondo State, adding that the Christmas Fiesta reflected Dr. Tunji-Ojo’s people-centred philosophy and enduring commitment to unity, empowerment and inclusive political engagement.

    The events across the districts were attended by prominent leaders and stakeholders of the Asiwaju Mandate Group, alongside party and community leaders. 

    In Ondo North, dignitaries present included Hon. Ife Ehindero, Member of the House of Representatives, representing Akoko North East/Akoko North West, Hon.Fatai Atere, Member of the Ondo State House of Assembly, representing Akoko North West Constituency 1, well as several party chieftains and community leaders. The Ondo Central edition was graced by former Commissioners Hon. Yetunde Adeyanju, Hon. Tobi Ogunleye and Dr. Lawrence Ibukun, alongside the former Accountant-General of Ondo State, Chief Kelly Agboola, and many other party leaders. 

    In the Ondo South Senatorial District, notable attendees included the Ondo State representative at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and a leader of the Asiwaju Mandate Group, Hon. Otito Atikase; Alhaji Olurimisi, a prominent Islamic leader in the state; the wife of Senator Yele Omogunwa; Hon. Yele Akinya; and former Commissioner Hon. Yetunde Adeyanju, among others.

    The celebrations were further enlivened by dance competitions through which various gift items, including blenders, electric fans, gas stoves and Android televisions, were won, while all attendees received Christmas gift packs.

    Particularly at the Ondo North edition held in Ikare-Akoko, the commitment of the Convener of the Asiwaju Mandate Group and Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, to youth empowerment and talent development was visibly demonstrated when a 14-year-old performer thrilled the audience and was rewarded with a cash gift of ₦250,000 on the directive of the Minister. The gesture drew commendation from attendees and underscored Dr. Tunji-Ojo’s consistent support for young talents and grassroots engagement. Across all three Senatorial Districts, the fiesta also provided a platform for emerging artistes and comedians, with two musical acts and a comedian performing at each venue, further reflecting the Minister’s inclusive vision of encouraging creativity, youth participation and community-driven development.

    The Asiwaju Christmas Fiesta provided an opportunity for fellowship and reflection, while reaffirming the group’s commitment to grassroots engagement, sustained promotion of the achievements of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, and mobilisation for his re-election in 2027.

  • Yusuf felicitates Christian community on Christmas

    Yusuf felicitates Christian community on Christmas

    Gov. Abbar Yusuf of Kano State has extended warm felicitations to the Christian community in Kano State and across Nigeria on the celebration of Christmas 2025.

    He described the season as a period of love, sacrifice, unity, and peaceful coexistence.

    In a statement signed by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature, on Thursday, Yusuf said Christmas offered an important opportunity for reflection on the enduring values of peace, tolerance, compassion, and selfless service to humanity.

    He urged Christians in the state to use the festive period to canvass for peace, unity, and collective progress.

    While calling on all the residents to live together in mutual respect and understanding, Yusuf reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting the rights of all the citizens

    According  to him, this is with a view to ensuring an atmosphere where everyone can freely practice their faith in peace.

    Yusuf wished the Christians a joyful Christmas celebration even as he prayed for a peaceful and prosperous New Year for all residents of the state.

    He also advised motorists to strictly observe traffic rules throughout the festive period and beyond to ensure safety on the roads.

    (NAN)

  • Christmas: Police foil kidnap attempt, rescue victim in Benue

    Christmas: Police foil kidnap attempt, rescue victim in Benue

    The Police Command in Benue on Christmas Day successfully foiled a kidnap attempt and rescued one Geoffrey Akume.

    The command’s spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, made the disclosure in a statement on Thursday made available to newsmen in Makurdi.

    Edet said the incident occurred in the early hours of the day at Tiortu, along Gboko/Makurdi Road.

    The police spokesperson explained that the victim, who was on transit from Gboko to Makurdi, was accosted by armed men suspected to be kidnappers at Tiortu.

    She said they forcefully abducted the victim and were in the process of taking him deeper into a nearby thick forest.

    “Upon receipt of the distress information, operatives of the Benue State Police Command swiftly swung into action and commenced intensive patrols and a coordinated search of the area.

    “On sighting the police team and hearing the sirens, the perpetrators abandoned the victim and fled into the forest.

    “The victim who escaped from the fleeing kidnappers was successfully rescued by the police patrol team, unhurt and with no ransom paid.

    “He was subsequently taken to Abinse Police Station, where he was debriefed by the Benue State Commissioner of Police and later reunited with his family,” she said.

    Edet said the Commissioner of Police, Mr Ifeanyi Emenari, has commended the swift response, courage, and professionalism of the operatives involved in the operation.

    Emenari reassured the good people of Benue of the Command’s unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property, especially during the festive season.

    He further assured residents that patrols, stop-and-search operations, and intelligence-led policing have been intensified across strategic locations in the state.

    “Members of the public are encouraged to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police station or through approved emergency channels.

    “Efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects,” she said.

    (NAN)

  • Christmas: Ikeja residents applaud LG vice chairman Omisore over free food items 

    Christmas: Ikeja residents applaud LG vice chairman Omisore over free food items 

    Hundreds of families in Alausa, Ikeja, benefited from a Yuletide food relief initiative as the Executive Vice Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Mr. Abisola Omisore, distributed mini bags of rice to residents of his immediate community.

    The three-day distribution exercise, which ended on December 25, took place at Sunday Adigun Street, Ikeja, as part of efforts to support residents during the Christmas season.

    An octogenarian and long-time resident, Mrs. Seliat Bashiru, commended the vice chairman for the kind gesture, noting that the food items would significantly support her family during the festive period.

    “We really appreciate the vice chairman for his kindness to the residents, and we pray that God continues to bless him in his political career,” she said.

    Another beneficiary, Mr. Sodiq Adebayo, also expressed gratitude, describing the initiative as timely and impactful.

    “We are really happy with the rice given to us at this point in time. It will go a long way in taking care of the beneficiaries during this season,” he said.

    Speaking during the exercise, Omisore described the initiative as a modest way of giving back to the people and sharing in the joy of the festive period.

    He said the gesture aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Ikeja political agenda, both of which emphasise people-centred governance and social support.

    The vice chairman acknowledged that while the relief package could not reach every household, it would nonetheless provide meaningful assistance to many families during the Yuletide.

    He also urged residents, particularly youths, to remain calm and peaceful throughout the festive period, stressing the importance of unity and social harmony.

    Omisore further assured the community of his commitment to expanding and improving the scope of such relief initiatives in subsequent years, adding that the welfare of residents remains a priority.

    “This is one of the little ways we can bring relief to the people during the festive season by providing them with essential items to celebrate,” he said.

  • Tonto Dikeh offers Christmas comfort to grieving individuals

    Tonto Dikeh offers Christmas comfort to grieving individuals

    Actress Tonto Dikeh has penned a message for individuals experiencing grief and loneliness during the Christmas season.

    In a post on X, Dikeh acknowledged the pain of loss, reminding her followers that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed and to miss loved ones who are no longer present.

    She prayed for strength, rest, and peace for those struggling to cope with their emotions, and encouraged them to hold on to hope and find solace in the love and memories they shared with their departed loved ones.

    Dikeh wrote, “To you whose heart feels heavier this Christmas, This season may look bright on the outside, yet feel painfully quiet within. The empty chair, the missing laughter, the memories that come rushing back . they are real, and so is your grief. Love does not disappear when someone is gone; it lingers in every memory, every tradition, every moment you wish you could share again.

    “Please know that it is okay to miss them. It is okay to cry. You are not weak for feeling this way .you are human, and you loved deeply.

    “May God hold you especially close in this season. May He comfort you in ways words cannot, wrap you in His peace, and remind you that you are not alone, even in your quiet moments. May the memories you shared become a source of gentle warmth rather than pain, and may hope slowly find its way back into your heart.

    “We pray for strength for the days that feel long, rest for the nights that feel heavy, and light for the moments that feel dark. May God’s presence be your refuge, and may His love carry you through this season and beyond.

    “You are seen. You are held. And your loved one will never be forgotten. With love, prayers, and compassion.”

  • First Lady urges Nigerians to uphold shared values of love, compassion at Christmas

    First Lady urges Nigerians to uphold shared values of love, compassion at Christmas

    The First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has reminded Nigerians that the values of love, compassion, kindness and generosity remain the bonds that unite the nation, urging citizens to uphold them beyond the Christmas season.

    In her Christmas message titled “Hope Beyond the Season,” Senator Tinubu called on Nigerians to use the Yuletide as a moment of reflection, gratitude and renewed commitment to one another, noting that the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ carries enduring lessons for families and communities.

    She said Christmas offers an opportunity for Nigerians to count their blessings and extend a helping hand to those in need, stressing that empathy and generosity should guide interactions across religious, ethnic and social lines.

    The First Lady also expressed gratitude to God for His faithfulness to the country and offered prayers for peace and security nationwide, emphasising the importance of harmony among Christians, Muslims and adherents of other faiths.

    She wished Nigerians a peaceful and joyful holiday season, while expressing optimism that the coming year would bring greater unity, renewed hope and shared prosperity for the nation.

    Senator Tinubu concluded by extending warm Christmas and New Year wishes to Nigerians at home and abroad, praying for divine blessings on the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

  • Leaders admonish Christians on significance of Christmas

    Leaders admonish Christians on significance of Christmas

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio yesterday urged Nigerians to promote peace, love and unity during the Christmas season.

    In his Christmas message, signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Eseme Eyiboh, Akpabio emphasised the importance of spreading love, kindness and generosity at yuletide.

    He also encouraged Nigerians to remember the less privileged and extend a helping hand to those in need.

    The Senate President noted that Jesus Christ exemplified peace, love and generosity, adding that His birth should be celebrated with joy and merriment.

    “I urge you all to exude love throughout this period and beyond. Let us tolerate one another and strive to be our brother’s keeper,” he said.

    Akpabio further highlighted the need for Nigerians to remain hopeful and steadfast in the face of challenges, praying for the country’s peace, unity and progress.

    He expressed optimism that Nigeria is heading in the right direction under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and urged citizens to support the government for better days ahead.

    Barau felicitates Christians

    Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, urged Christians to remain steadfast in upholding the teachings of Christ, including love, peace, sacrifice and compassion.

    In a statement by his media aide, Malam Ismail Mudashir, Barau, who is also the First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, called on Nigerians to continue praying for the country.

    “I also call on all Nigerians to continue praying for our nation and to sustain faith in the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as we collectively work towards a brighter and more prosperous Nigeria,” he said.

    CAN urges churches to celebrate with vigilance

    The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) urged churches to celebrate Christmas with heightened security consciousness.

    CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said while the birth of Jesus Christ symbolises hope, light, and God’s abiding love for humanity, the safety of worshippers must remain paramount during the festive season.

    He urged church leaders, particularly in areas prone to security threats, to take practical steps to protect lives, stressing that vigilance and responsibility are essential expressions of Christian stewardship.

    “As churches gather to worship and rejoice during this festive season, Christian leaders and congregations must do so with wisdom, vigilance and a deep sense of responsibility.

    Read Also: Northern Elders Forum calls for unity, peace in Christmas message

    “The protection of human life is sacred and must remain paramount,” Okoh said.

    He advised that in locations with inadequate security presence, church leaders should consider holding services in safer venues or organising smaller gatherings for better protection of members.

    He explained that the guidance was motivated by love and care, not fear.

    The CAN President appealed to security agencies to increase their presence around places of worship and urged churches to maintain close collaboration with law enforcement to ensure peaceful celebrations nationwide.

    He also called on Nigerians to reflect on the core message of Christmas – love, peace, patience, sacrifice and compassion – despite economic and social challenges.

    Idris: govt won’t take Nigerians for granted

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has assured Nigerians that the Federal Government will not take their patience and resilience for granted.

    In a statement, Idris said President Tinubu remains focused on building a safer, stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.

    He urged Nigerians, particularly Christians, to care for one another, remain united and keep faith in the country, even in difficult times.

    The statement noted that Christmas should be used to promote peace, kindness and unity in homes and communities, while remembering families affected by insecurity and appreciating security personnel defending the nation.

     Abbas, Kalu urge prayer for national rebirth

    Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, and his deputy, Benjamin Kalu, have urged Christians to pray for a new dawn in Nigeria amid socio-economic, political and security challenges.

    Abbas said the birth and life of Jesus Christ symbolised humility, holiness, courage and compassion, urging Christians to imbibe these virtues while exercising moderation and charity during the festive season.

    Kalu called on Nigerians to show love to the needy and emulate Christ’s life, describing Christmas as a period of reflection, renewal and hope.

    Abiru: economy turning the corner

    Chairman of the Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and Other Financial Institutions, Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru, has called for unity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.

    In a statement by his media aide, Enitan Olukotun, Abiru said the economy has turned the corner, citing signs of recovery under President Tinubu’s administration.

    He highlighted reforms such as fuel subsidy removal, foreign exchange unification and fiscal discipline, noting improvements in GDP growth, foreign reserves and investor confidence.

    Abiru urged Nigerians to remain patient and united, stressing that the reforms were necessary to lay the foundation for inclusive and sustainable growth, while reaffirming his commitment to policies that strengthen the economy and protect citizens’ welfare.