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Tag: Christmas

  • Christmas beyond customs, toward conscience and courage

    Christmas beyond customs, toward conscience and courage

    • By Obiotika Wilfred

    Christmas has never been static. It has journeyed through ages—from sacred faith to living tradition, from shared customs to today’s modern celebration shaped by commerce, media, and convenience. Yet beneath these layers lie a question Nigeria must ask as we observe Christmas 2025: What does celebration mean in a season of pain, perseverance, and paradox?

    This year’s theme, “The Realm of Overcomers,” speaks directly to the Nigerian spirit between 2024 and 2025—a people pressed by hardship yet refusing to disappear into despair. It is a theme not of denial but of defiance; not of escapism but of meaning. To celebrate Christmas well in 2025 is not merely to decorate homes, travel villages, or exchange gifts. It is to confront reality with courage, to choose joy without blindness, and to end the year with moral clarity while stepping into 2026 with disciplined hope.

    Nigeria’s recent story is heavy. Continual foreign loans, mounting debt, and the need to borrow yet again to fund the 2026 national budget have left the economy gasping. Inflation has become a daily language understood by market women, teachers, artisans, and professionals alike. Prices rise faster than wages; dreams shrink while responsibilities multiply. In this climate, citizens who refuse to complain are often labeled conspirators, naïve optimists, or even mad. Yet their dedication—to work, to faith, to family, to nation—often surpasses the understanding of those who prefer the smugness and ease of contemporary life.

    Here lies the paradox of our time: perseverance is mistaken for madness; hope is confused with denial. But history teaches that societies are not rebuilt by mockery or comfort, but by men and women who endure when endurance is unfashionable.

    Christmas, at its core, reminds us that love is a feeling, joy is a feeling, concern for others is a feeling, and compassion for the lost is a feeling. These feelings are not weaknesses; they are the moral energies that sustain civilizations. When stripped of feeling, celebration becomes noise; when detached from concern, prosperity becomes cruelty. The Realm of Overcomers is therefore not a place of wealth but of disciplined emotion—where love does not grow cold, joy does not turn shallow, and concern does not expire under pressure.

    As we assess the world today—individually, corporately, and professionally—we must admit an uncomfortable truth. Many individuals are exhausted, not only by hardship but by meaninglessness. Corporate institutions, obsessed with profit and survival, often neglect humanity. Professionals, once guided by ethics and vocation, now struggle between integrity and compromise. In such a world, Christmas risks becoming a pause for consumption rather than a call to conscience.

    Read Also: Tinubu sets up high-powered APC committee to tackle internal crises ahead of 2027

    Yet Nigeria’s reality sharpens this call. Insecurity stretches across regions; farms are burned, families displaced, and communities uprooted. The next planting season remains uncertain, while food prices stay painfully high. These conditions breed fear. They also breed idleness. And where fear and idleness coexist, hope becomes contested terrain.

    As 2026 approaches, Nigerians face three options: fear, hope, or idleness. Fear paralyzes. Idleness distracts. Only hope—active, disciplined, and communal—builds. Overcomers are not those who ignore danger, but those who refuse to let danger define their character.

    Unfortunately, a louder voice is rising globally and locally—the voice of what can rightly be called a Hate Revolution. Documented global trends show increasing polarization, intolerance, and dehumanization across societies, amplified by digital platforms and economic frustration. Hate crimes, online hostility, ethnic suspicion, and ideological aggression have risen in measurable percentages worldwide over the last decade. Nigeria is not immune. When hardship persists, hatred often masquerades as courage, while bitterness pretends to be truth.

    But hatred is not strength; it is emotional bankruptcy. Bitterness corrodes judgment. Fleshly lust—whether for power, pleasure, or dominance—clouds moral vision. The complacent, self-centred, and smug, fed up with their own emptiness, often accuse others of madness simply because those others still believe, still serve, still hope.

    Christmas 2025 challenges this trajectory. It calls Nigerians to reject bitterness, to resist the tyranny of lustful appetites, and to choose responsibility over ridicule. It invites us to celebrate not only with music and meals, but with mercy and meaning. To support local communities. To protect human dignity. To speak truth without cruelty. To love without surrendering wisdom.

    Ending 2025 jubilantly does not mean pretending all is well; it means affirming that all is not lost. Starting 2026 prosperously does not begin with budgets alone, but with attitudes—individual, corporate, and professional—realigned toward service, resilience, and shared destiny.

    The Realm of Overcomers is not reserved for the loud or the lucky. It belongs to those who feel deeply yet act wisely; who love without naivety; who hope without illusion; who stand firm without hatred. In a world flirting dangerously with a Hate Revolution, Christmas remains one of the few seasons bold enough to remind us that humanity survives not by anger, but by conscience.

    That, perhaps, is the best way to celebrate Christmas 2025—and the strongest way to enter 2026.

    •Wilfred writes via obiotika2018@gmail.com

  • Governors, senators, others preach peace, unity

    Governors, senators, others preach peace, unity

    As Christians celebrate Christmas today, governors, National Assembly members and groups took time out to remind them of the virtues of Jesus Christ, whose birthday is being celebrated globally.

     They said that peace, love, unity and giving, which Christ lived and preached, should be the hallmarks of all Christians in the country.

    The admonition was contained in their separate messages to mark the season.

    The governors  were  Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo),

    Sheriff Oborevwori(Delta), Siminalayi Fubara(Rivers),  Abdullahi Sule(Nasarawa),  Mohammed  Bago (Niger) and   Caleb Mutfwang(Plateau).

     The Senators were Tokunbo Abiru (Lagos East), Solomon Adeola ( Ogun West),   Sunday Katung  (Kaduna South), Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan  (Kogi Central), Sen. Sani Musa ( Niger East),    

    Northern Elders Forum (NEF), Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudasiru Obasa, Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, Ekiti State former Governor  Kayode Fayemi and the  Diocesan Bishop of Lagos (Anglican Communion), The Rt. Revd.  Ifedola Gabriel Okupevi were the others who felicitated Nigerian Christians on the occasion.

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    Aiyedatiwa harps on tolerance

    In Akure, Aiyedatiwa congratulated Christians on witnessing another Christmas and prayed that the season would usher in peace, joy, and renewed hope in homes across the state.

     The governor urged residents to uphold the spirit of love, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence associated with Christmas, stressing that collective responsibility and mutual understanding are essential for sustained progress.

    He expressed confidence that the new year would bring meaningful development, improved living conditions, and greater achievements for the state.

    Aiyedatiwa said the resilience, unity, and support of the people remained critical to the growth and development of the Sunshine State.

    Fubara calls for

    dialogue

    In his Christmas message to Rivers State people, Governor Fubara insisted that only a united and stable state could birth development and progress in Rivers.

    He therefore called on all stakeholders to forego discord and embrace dialogue in the interest of the state.  

    Fubara said: “Our collective progress is anchored on unity and harmony. I remain steadfast in my commitment to the Rivers First agenda, driven by peace and dedicated to inclusive development. Only in a united and stable Rivers State can we build the infrastructure, strengthen the economy, and secure the prosperous future that every citizen deserves.

    “Let us therefore replace discord with dialogue and choose understanding over division. I also urge all residents to remain security-conscious, as safeguarding our state is a shared responsibility that begins with vigilance, cooperation, mutual respect and support.”

    While congratulating the people for witnessing what he referred to as this beautiful season of hope, renewal, and thanksgiving, the governor called for religious tolerance in the state.

    He said: “ Regardless of our individual faiths, let us uphold religious tolerance and recommit ourselves to the noble responsibility of being our brother’s keeper, even amid the socio-economic challenges of our time.

    As you celebrate this season, may your homes be filled with joy and your hearts overflow with love that transcends ethnic and religious boundaries.”

    Oborevwori urges Christ-like living

    Also,    Governor  Oborevwori called on Christians  to embrace love, unity and Christ-like living because they are the foundations for peaceful coexistence and sustainable development.

    He also urged   Deltans and residents of the state to use the season to reflect on the virtues of sacrifice, compassion and selfless service as exemplified by  Christ.

    The governor commended the people for their resilience, unity and support, noting that their cooperation had been instrumental to the progress recorded so far by his administration.

    Pointing out that the Yuletide offers an opportunity for thanksgiving and renewed hope, he prayed for a peaceful and prosperous New Year. 

    Oberevwori added: “Christmas reminds us of the power of hope and the triumph of light over darkness. As we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, let us work together to build a stronger and more prosperous Delta State for present and future generations.” 

    Mutfwang urges prayers 

     In his goodwill message, Governor   Mutfwang described Christmas as a season of reflection, thanksgiving, and renewed hope. He expressed gratitude to the people of the state for their commitment to the promotion of peace, unity and harmonious coexistence.

    The governor called on Christians to use the solemnity of the season to offer fervent prayers for enduring peace across the nation and for leaders at all levels of governance.

    He specifically called for prayers for President  Bola  Tinubu, asking God to grant him divine wisdom, courage, sound health, and guidance to steer the affairs of the nation.

    The governor noted in a statement by his spokesman, Gyang Bere, that Christmas reminds believers of the boundless love of God, as exemplified through the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. 

    “This Christmas season fills our hearts with joy, love, and a spirit of togetherness. It reminds us of the true essence of our faith and of the divine light that came into the world through the birth of Jesus Christ, bringing hope, redemption, and reassurance to a weary world, Mutfwang said.

  • Christmas: DG ICRC calls for love, renewed commitment to national development

    Christmas: DG ICRC calls for love, renewed commitment to national development

    As Nigerians celebrate Christmas, the Director-General of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), Dr. Jobson Oseodion Ewalefoh, has called on citizens to embrace love, hope, and a renewed sense of responsibility to national development.

    In his Christmas message, Dr. Ewalefoh described the season as a powerful reminder of the enduring values that bind Nigerians together — love for one another, compassion for the vulnerable, and a shared commitment to the common good. 

    He noted that these values are especially important at a time when collective effort and understanding remain critical to national progress.

    He said the Christmas season also offers an opportunity to reflect on the resilience of Nigerians and the spirit of cooperation that continues to define communities across the country, even in the face of challenges.

    “Christmas teaches us that love is not just an emotion, but a responsibility — a responsibility to care for one another, to serve with sincerity, and to place the common good above personal interest.” 

    Dr. Ewalefoh said, “When love guides our actions as individuals and as a nation, it becomes a powerful force for unity, trust, and sustainable national development.”

    He emphasised that national development is ultimately driven by people — by the values they uphold and the choices they make — adding that love, expressed through service, responsibility, and integrity, remains central to building a stronger nation.

    Dr. Ewalefoh wished Nigerians a peaceful Christmas celebration and expressed hope for a new year marked by compassion, shared purpose, and sustained national progress.

  • Christmas: Niger governor urges Christians to renew faith, hope for 2026

    Christmas: Niger governor urges Christians to renew faith, hope for 2026

    Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has called on Christians in the state and around the world to renew their trust in God and maintain a positive outlook on Nigeria, themselves, and Niger State.

    In a press statement marking Christmas and the New Year, Governor Bago emphasized that the celebration, which holds deep significance for Christians, is a time for reflection on love, humility, goodwill, and hope.

    He urged citizens to use the festive period to strengthen their faith in God and to pray for peace and prosperity in Niger State and across Nigeria.

    Governor Bago highlighted that his administration is working diligently to deliver good governance under the “New Niger” agenda and expressed optimism that 2026 will be remarkable, promising initiatives that will ensure sustained dividends of democracy and drive rapid socio-economic development in the state.

    He also called on residents to remain security-conscious and to promptly report any suspicious individuals or activities to the appropriate security agencies.

  • Top 10 timeless Christmas songs

    Top 10 timeless Christmas songs

    Christmas music fills the air every December, but much of what dominates playlists is remakes of familiar classics.

    For listeners searching for holiday tracks that feel fresh yet still capture the warmth and emotion of the season, below are 10 standout songs to add to your festive rotation, focusing on originality, variety, and enduring appeal.

    1. This Christmas – Donny Hathaway. Topping the list is this joyful R&B anthem that celebrates the season itself. With its infectious groove and sing-along chorus, Hathaway’s classic has become a holiday favourite for parties and family gatherings alike.

    2. The Christmas Song – Nat King Cole. Often remembered by its opening line, “Chestnuts roasting on an open fire,” this timeless ballad reflects the warmth and togetherness of Christmas. Cole’s rich vocals make it one of the most beloved holiday recordings ever.

    3. The Little Drummer Boy (Peace on Earth) – Bing Crosby & David BowieThis unique duet blends Crosby’s traditional style with Bowie’s distinctive voice, enhanced by the added “Peace on Earth” refrain. The result is a moving song that goes beyond festive cheer to deliver a message of hope.

    4. Feliz Navidad – José Feliciano, Simple, joyful, and bilingual, this catchy tune has become a global Christmas staple. Its upbeat rhythm and cheerful lyrics make it impossible not to sing along.

    5. White Christmas – Bing Crosby. One of the most iconic holiday songs of all time, Crosby’s smooth delivery and nostalgic imagery of snowy celebrations, which have kept this track relevant for generations. It even earned an Academy Award in 1943.

    6. Christmas All Over Again – Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. With a rock ‘n’ roll edge, this lively song captures the fun and sometimes chaotic spirit of family Christmas gatherings, offering a modern twist to seasonal music.

    7. Happy Xmas (War Is Over) – John Lennon & Yoko OnoThis reflective anthem combines melancholy with hope, urging listeners to think about peace and the passage of time. It remains one of the most emotionally resonant holiday songs.

    8. The Christmas Wish – John Denver and the Muppets. A heartwarming collaboration that blends nostalgia with gentle humour, this song stands out for its touching lyrics and the charm of the Muppets alongside Denver’s warm vocals.

    9. Mele Kalikimaka – Bing Crosby. With its Hawaiian flair, this 1949 recording offers a tropical take on Christmas. Catchy and lighthearted, it brings a refreshing change from the usual winter-themed songs.

    10. Linus and Lucy – Vince Guaraldi Trio though instrumental and not written specifically as a Christmas song, this jazzy piano piece is forever linked to A Charlie Brown Christmas. Its playful melody evokes childhood memories and holiday nostalgia.

    Honourable mention: “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” – Darlene Love remains a powerful festive favourite that narrowly misses the top 10.

    From soulful ballads to upbeat classics and jazzy instrumentals, these songs offer a diverse soundtrack for anyone looking to refresh their Christmas playlist beyond the usual seasonal repeats.

  • Christmas should be season of love, hope, goodwill — Alaafin

    Christmas should be season of love, hope, goodwill — Alaafin

    The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, has urged Christians to embrace Christmas as a season of love, gratitude to God, goodwill to neighbours and divine expectation, noting that such values are essential for national healing and transformation.

    The monarch said living out the true spirit of Christmas would strengthen relationships, improve governance, and help build the nation Nigerians desire.

    “If we love with the spirit of Christmas in our hearts, governance would work, electoral reforms would be easier to accomplish, funds would be judiciously utilised for the good of the larger number, while leadership would love and cherish the led,” he said. “That is the essence of Christmas, which we commend to all Nigerians, indeed to all humanity, at this time.”

    Oba Owoade gave the admonition in his Christmas and New Year message, conveyed through his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye.

    According to Alaafin, the sacrifice of Jesus Christ was founded on love, a virtue he urged citizens to imbibe in the current national context.

    “It was love that took Jesus to the cross. If His heart was not welling and overflowing with love, He could not have offered Himself as a sacrifice. At this time in our country, we commend this love to all citizens—love that considers others first, prefers others above personal and selfish desires, and seeks to emancipate, unshackle, and liberate,” he said.

    He added that love, sincerity of purpose, commitment, and patriotism would help Nigeria overcome internecine killings, agitations, and other divisive tendencies, calling on Christians to exemplify these virtues and inspire non-Christians through their conduct.

    The Alaafin further noted that recent improvements in governance and accountability in Nigeria offer renewed hope, despite what he described as attempts by some elements to undermine the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    He said the country’s past challenges with transparency and accountability had weakened leadership, but expressed confidence that President Tinubu’s emergence signalled hope and transformation.

    “President Tinubu’s victory was a victory of hope and transformation and will mark the beginning of a new dawn for our democracy, where corruption, abuse of power, lack of transparency, deceit, ineptitude, ethnicity, and impunity will no longer define governance,” the monarch said.

    Citing the President’s track record and commitment to democratic processes since the return to constitutional governance in 1999, Oba Owoade expressed optimism that Nigeria would witness renewed values of good and accountable leadership.

    He prayed for divine guidance for President Tinubu and the Nigerian people as they confront the demanding task of entrenching honesty and accountability in governance, expressing confidence that the President’s integrity, perseverance, and commitment to positive change would prevail throughout his tenure.

  • Christmas: Embrace love, kindness, hard work, Makinde’s wife urges children

    Christmas: Embrace love, kindness, hard work, Makinde’s wife urges children

    Wife of Oyo State Governor, Mrs Tamunominini Makinde has charged children across the state to embrace love, kindness, honesty and hard work, saying these are essential foundations for brighter future.

    The Governor’s wife described Christmas as a season of reflection, love and giving, rooted in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.

    Speaking in Ibadan at a Christmas party organised for children in the state, Mrs Makinde, who was represented by wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs Ajibola Lawal stated that Christmas is a special time of coming together to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, who demonstrated compassion, sacrifice and love during His time on earth.

    She said, “It is a season of joy, peace and giving, and today, we are here to celebrate that spirit and put smiles on the faces of our children.”

    Mrs Makinde reminded the children of their critical role in shaping the future of Oyo State and the nation at large.

    “You are the leaders of tomorrow. Embrace the values of honesty and hard work, and always strive to be the best version of yourselves.”

    She further encouraged the children to cultivate kindness and empathy, stressing that even small acts of love can make a meaningful difference in society.

    “Be kind to one another. Every act of kindness, no matter how small, can change someone’s life. Extend a helping hand where you can and show love, especially to the less privileged among you.”

    Earlier In her welcome address, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Mrs Toyin Balogun, said the event was deliberately designed to make children happy during the season’s.

    “Today is all about celebrating our children. They are the pride of Oyo State and the reason we must continue to invest in a better, safer and more inclusive future.”

    She noted that the state government, under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, remained committed to policies and programmes that promote child welfare, protection and holistic development.

    Mrs Balogun added that the Christmas party also served as an avenue to spread joy to more families across the state.

    “We are not just celebrating today; we are celebrating hope, innocence and the promise of tomorrow. As the years go by, we will continue to expand this celebration to reach even more children.”

    Highlights of the event include gift presentation to children, prayer for the state and others.

  • Christmas: FOST feeds 1,000 indigent families in Ogun

    Christmas: FOST feeds 1,000 indigent families in Ogun

    The Friends of Seyi Tinubu (FOST) Humanitarian Foundation has distributed free food to over 1,000 indigent families in Sango Ota, Ogun State.

    The outreach, which formed FOST’s final major humanitarian intervention for the year, witnessed impressive turnout, particularly among elderly residents and vulnerable members of the community who trooped out early to receive food items. 

    The Foundation’s target of feeding 1,000 families was not only met but exceeded, as the exercise was carried out in an orderly and transparent manner.

    Security at the venue was coordinated by the National Director of Safety and Security, Comrade Fadairo Emmanuel Temitope, who ensured smooth crowd control and peaceful distribution process. 

    The FOST Coordinator in Ogun State and host of the programme, Hon. Shotunde Abdulghaffar Oluwaseyi, was commended for his meticulous planning, mobilization, and coordination of members, volunteers, and beneficiaries.

    Speaking at the event, Shotunde noted that “this period of the year is a time for sharing with others, especially those who cannot afford,” stressing that compassion and service to humanity remained FOST core mandate.

    Food items were distributed to beneficiaries amid prayers for the continued growth, good health, and success of FOST’s principal, Seyi Tinubu, as well as for members of the Foundation. 

    Beneficiaries left the venue with food items and visible expressions of gratitude and joy.

    In his remarks, the President of FOST, Comrade Adejorin Tai Manuel, urged Nigerians to remained patient and supportive of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

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    He assured them that people-driven economic policies already put in place by the President are beginning to yield positive results. 

    He also called on Nigerians to be grateful for recent decline in food prices, which has helped to ease burden on households during the festive season.

    Adejorin further appealed for unity among Nigerians and called on both the federal and state governments to intensify efforts to bring an end to insecurity, particularly banditry and kidnapping, describing security as fundamental to national growth and stability.

    The programme enjoyed wide commendation from community members and stakeholders and was attended by the Ondo State Coordinator of FOST, Comrade Oyedeji Oluwafemi, as well as representatives from the Lagos and Osun State chapters of the Foundation.

    The Sango Ota outreach once again underscored FOST’s commitment to humanitarian service, grassroots engagement, and the promotion of empathy and shared responsibility, especially during the festive season.

  • Christmas: FRSC announced full deployment to ensure safer highways

    Christmas: FRSC announced full deployment to ensure safer highways

    The Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, has directed Commanding Officers to ensure full deployment of personnel, patrol teams, and operational assets in line with the operational guidelines of Operation Zero Tolerance Exercise.

    Operation Zero Exercise, which commenced on 15 December, 2025 and will run until 15 January, 2026, is a high impact, intelligence driven nationwide special operation aimed at delivering round-the-clock patrols, strategic traffic management, rapid emergency response and aggressive enforcement of traffic laws.

    The Corps Marshal also ordered Commanding Officers to lead from the front, enforce strict discipline among operatives and guarantee optimal utilisation of patrol vehicles, ambulances, speed-limiting devices and other safety equipment.

    In a statement by the Corps Public Education Officer, Assistant Corps Marshal Olusegun Ogungbemide, the Corps Marshal declared zero tolerance for mixed loading and distracted driving.

    He warned that vehicles conveying passengers alongside goods or animals, as well as drivers engaging in phone use or other distractions while driving, will be decisively sanctioned under the Operation Zero Exercise. 

    “All formations have been mandated to prioritise critical corridors, crash prone locations, gridlock points and major inter-state routes, while ensuring sustained visibility of FRSC personnel as a strong deterrent to traffic violations,” the Corps Marshal said.

    He implored construction and road maintenance companies currently operating on major highways to open up carriageways, clear avoidable bottlenecks and effective traffic control around work zones during the festive travel period.

    He stressed that easing congestion at construction points will significantly alleviate the hardship of the motoring public and enhance safe and smooth movement.

    The Corps Marshal charged Commanding Officers to intensify safety advocacy at motor parks, markets, religious centres and public gatherings, while cautioning motorists against speeding, drunk driving and dangerous overtaking, which he said remain leading causes of fatal crashes and would attract decisive enforcement actions.

    He also urged enhanced collaboration with sister security agencies, emergency responders, transport unions and community leaders to ensure seamless traffic control and swift response to crashes and obstructions.

  • Christmas: Evil will not prevail, Catholic Bishops assures Nigerians

    Christmas: Evil will not prevail, Catholic Bishops assures Nigerians

    The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) on Friday reassured Nigerians that evil will not prevail, urging citizens not to lose hope despite the country’s many challenges.

    In a Christmas message, the President of the CBCN and Archbishop of Owerri, Lucius Ugorji, said the birth of Jesus Christ remains a powerful reminder that God has not abandoned Nigeria, even in the face of deep national difficulties.

    He said the Christmas season offers renewed assurance that “evil does not have the final word.”

    “At Christmas, the Church proclaims the truth upon which all Christian hope rests: the Word became flesh and dwelt among us. God did not respond to the brokenness of the world with distance or indifference. He responded by drawing near,” he said.

    Archbishop Ugorji lamented the scale of suffering across the country, pointing to economic hardship, insecurity, displacement and persistent violence that have left many Nigerians fearful, weary and uncertain.

    He noted that families have been torn apart, livelihoods destroyed and lives lost to lawlessness, recalling the abduction of students and staff of St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State, as a painful reminder of the insecurity confronting communities nationwide.

    “We recall with deep pain the abduction of students and staff from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State, and the anguish of families whose loved ones remain in captivity, alongside countless others across the country living under similar threats,” he said.

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    The CBCN president stressed that Christmas should not be interpreted as a denial of suffering but as a declaration that suffering is not the end of the story.

    “Christian hope does not deny evil, but it refuses to concede that evil is final,” he said.

    “Even when answers are delayed and outcomes remain uncertain, hope assures us that no life is forgotten.”

    Ugorji said peace, unity and justice are achievable if Nigerians commit to truth, integrity and respect for human dignity, adding that corruption and violence, though deeply rooted, are not irreversible.

    “Our nation longs for a future where integrity overcomes corruption and violence gives way to security. What has been fractured can be rebuilt, and what has been wounded can be healed,” he said.

    The archbishop said despite challenges, there are still signs of hope across the country, pointing to Nigerians who continue to choose honesty, courage and service in their daily lives.

    “These daily acts of faithfulness remind us that the moral heart of our nation is still alive,” he said.

    Ugogji urged Nigerians to embrace the true meaning of Christmas and renew their commitment to justice, reconciliation and peace, expressing hope that the season would bring healing and renewed purpose to the country.