Christmas Felicitations: Gombe, Adamawa, Kwara Governors call for Prayers

The Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya has felicitated with the Christian community in the state, as they celebrate this year’s Christmas.

Governor Yahaya said in a goodwill message that Christians should use the period to pray for peace, security and prosperity of the state and the nation.

He enjoined them and the entire people of the state to rededicate themselves and remain steadfast in prayers against all the challenges bedevilling the state and humanity in general.

“We are indeed in a trying moment but I am optimistic that with collective commitment, sacrifice and by turning to God through prayers we shall overcome all the trials and emerge stronger,” said Governor Yahaya.

He gave the assurances of his administration’s commitment to continue to initiate and execute policies and programmes that would have a positive impact on the lives of the citizenry, as well as promote unity and peaceful coexistence in the state.

“On this significant occasion of Christmas, I extend my best wishes to the Christian community and the entire people of the state. This period reminds us of God’s love for humanity and the need to uphold the virtues of compassion, tolerance and love. It also provides an opportunity for reinforcement of unity of purpose, the bond of brotherhood and dedication in service to God and humanity as exemplified by Jesus Christ,” Governor Yahaya said.

The Gombe State Governor equally called on Christians to reflect on the lessons of the season, which he said, presented an opportunity to love and share.

Adamawa State

In the same vein, the Governor of Adamawa State, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri urged Nigerians to see the period of Christmas as an opportunity to rekindle acts of love and kindness to one another, especially to the vulnerable in society.

According to him, it is in line with the spirit of Christmas to do good to all and to live every day in service of others.

“When we commit our hearts and our hands to making the world around us a better place for all, we are fulfilling the promise that began in the humble Manger in Bethlehem. I therefore urge you to take the festive season to reflect on the blessings and favour of the outgoing year, while at the same time preparing for a better 2022. It is a time to render service to others as Jesus did,” Governor Fintiri said.

He reminded Christians that the true gift of Christmas were not material, but the opportunity to share the festive season with loved ones, while appreciating the spirit of tolerance and cooperation.

According to the governor, this will provide the enabling environment for growth and development in Adamawa State.

“We will continue to promote healthy community relations with economic opportunities and empowerment prospects for all,” said Governor Fintiri.

He explained that Christmas was the depth of God’s love for mankind, with an exemplary sacrifice, which should emulate in people’s daily interaction with neighbours, irrespective of status and creed.

Governor Fintiri urged the citizenry to also pray and give thanks for the brave men and women in uniform, who would be spending the holidays far from home.

“Their courage and dedication is helping keep us safe and extending freedom and peace. We are grateful for their service to our country and for the support and sacrifice of their families,” said the Adamawa State Governor.

He urged the people to celebrate responsibly, by observing the  COVID-19 Protocols, in view of the difficult times the nation had found itself.

“As with Jesus’ birth, amid the challenges we face this Christmas we celebrate aspiration, strive to do good, be charitable, forgiving and have hope and love. Let’s take refuge in His timeless promise,” he said.

Kwara State

The Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has also congratulated the Christian community as they celebrate Christmas, praying God to make the festive period a joyful one for all.

In a statement issued in Ilorin on Friday, by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, the Governor said the season brings back good memories of God’s faithfulness and love for all, irrespective whatever cleavages.

“I join our brethren in the celebration of the season, while praying God to make it a joyous one for everyone,” the Governor said.

“Christ, the reason for the season, embodies peace, love for all, charity, goodness, equity and justice, and absolute belief in God. It is my appeal that we are all guided by these great qualities in our relationship with one another as members of the same family under God.”

PIAK