The Lagos State Government marked the festive season with a grand celebration of faith and unity, hosting the 2025 Christmas Carol of Nine Lessons at the Lagos House in Ikeja. The event, now in its 19th consecutive year, brought together the state's leadership and citizens to honour the birth and enduring reign of Jesus Christ.
A Gathering of Leaders for Worship and Reflection
The prestigious gathering saw a high-profile attendance led by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. He was joined by an array of dignitaries including the First Lady, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu; the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, and his wife Oluremi; and the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa. The state's Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro, and Chief of Staff, Mr. Tayo Ayinde, were also present alongside members of the State Executive Council, former public office holders, and religious and traditional leaders.
The ceremony featured the traditional reading of nine scriptural lessons. Significant portions were read by key figures: the First Lady delivered the ninth lesson, while Deputy Governor Hamzat, his wife, and Speaker Obasa read the eighth, seventh, and fourth lessons respectively. They all extended warm Christmas wishes to the residents of Lagos.
Commissioner and Permanent Secretary Hail Tradition and Theme
In his address, the Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ibrahim Layode, praised the state government for its consistent commitment to religious harmony through this annual tradition. He emphasized that the theme, 'The Reign of the Messiah', resonates with the core message of Christmas.
"We are gathered again not merely for music or ceremony, but for worship, reflection and proclamation of Jesus Christ, the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords," Layode stated. He urged attendees to look beyond the manger to the throne, celebrating Jesus as the Prince of Peace who continues to reign. "Whether you have had a mountain-top year or a difficult one, we hope these lessons and carols remind you that there is a Messiah who is in control," he added.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Adewunmi Ogunsanya, acknowledged the origins of the tradition, crediting President Bola Tinubu and his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for its inception. He also commended Governor Sanwo-Olu, Deputy Governor Hamzat, and their spouses for their unwavering support. Ogunsanya extended gratitude to the religious leaders for their guidance and specially praised the choirs and instrumentalists for encapsulating the spirit of the season.
Special Ministrations Enrich the Annual Celebration
The 2025 edition was notably enriched by powerful musical performances. The event featured special ministrations from the renowned Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM) Choir and the Pacelli School of the Blind. Popular gospel artistes Kent Edunjobi and Kenny St Brown also performed, adding vibrant colour and profound spiritual meaning to the night.
This annual Carol of Nine Lessons remains a cornerstone of Lagos State's end-of-year calendar, consistently reinforcing the Christmas values of unity, faith, and collective hope. The successful hosting of the 19th edition on December 20, 2025, further cements its place as a beloved tradition that bridges governance and spirituality.
