By Gbenga Sodeinde, Ado-Ekiti
Former Ekiti State Governor and immediate past Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), Dr Kayode Fayemi, has urged Nigerians to embrace hope, sober reflection and responsible celebration as they mark Christmas and prepare for the New Year.
In a Christmas message released by his Media Office and signed by Mallam Ahmad Sajoh, Fayemi described the season as a reminder of enduring values of love, peace, sacrifice and compassion, noting that these ideals remain relevant to Nigeria’s current realities.
While acknowledging the economic and social challenges confronting the nation, the former governor expressed confidence in Nigeria’s resilience, stressing that the country has repeatedly shown the capacity to endure hardship and emerge stronger through collective resolve.
“While we cannot deny the reality of the challenges before us, we must also not surrender our faith in the future of our country,” Fayemi said. “Moments like Christmas remind us that even in times of uncertainty, hope can be renewed and light can emerge from darkness.”
He called on Nigerians to celebrate moderately and responsibly, urging citizens to be mindful of prevailing economic conditions and to extend compassion and support to the less privileged during the festive period.
Reflecting on the deeper spiritual meaning of Christmas, Fayemi described it as more than a season of merriment, but a celebration rooted in humility, sacrifice and selfless love, values he said align strongly with Nigeria’s communal traditions.
“Christmas is not merely a season of merrymaking; it carries profound spiritual significance, representing hope, the promise of salvation and the ultimate sacrifice of love,” he stated. “As we celebrate, let us reflect on how these values can help rebuild the social fabric of our nation.”
Expressing optimism about the future, Fayemi encouraged Nigerians to approach the New Year with renewed determination and unity.
“We may be in a difficult season, but we are not a hopeless people. With collective effort and the enduring grace of God, Nigeria will emerge stronger and more prosperous,” he added.
He concluded by wishing Nigerians a peaceful Christmas and a secure, productive and flourishing New Year.