In a powerful Christmas address, the Catholic Bishop of Abeokuta Diocese, Most Rev. Peter Kayode Odetoyinbo, has called on Nigerians to anchor their hope for peace in Jesus Christ. This message comes as the nation grapples with severe social and economic difficulties.
A Spiritual Anchor in Troubled Times
Delivering his Christmas message titled “In Jesus Christ Is Our Hope for Peace,” Bishop Odetoyinbo emphasized the core spiritual meaning of the season. He described Christmas as the celebration of God's humble entry into human history through the birth of Jesus. The bishop pointed out that this event teaches that true peace is not achieved through power or force, but through humility, love, and faith, as shown by Christ's birth in a manger.
He did not shy away from the harsh realities facing the country. Bishop Odetoyinbo lamented that countless Nigerian families are currently battling hunger, insecurity, and a profound lack of peace in their communities. He highlighted specific groups suffering under the nation's burdens:
- Young people weighed down by unemployment and future uncertainty.
- Parents struggling with skyrocketing living costs, school fees, and providing basic needs.
- Farmers living in fear due to insecurity.
- Traders whose livelihoods are affected by instability.
- Communities ravaged by violence, poverty, and displacement.
A Call for Collective Conversion and Action
Bishop Odetoyinbo described Nigeria as a nation wounded by interconnected crises: hunger, poverty, unemployment, corruption, and insecurity. He issued a strong call for a collective conversion of heart, directed at both leaders and ordinary citizens.
He warned that lasting peace can never be the product of violence, greed, or indifference. Instead, he outlined the true path to peace:
- Recognizing every person as a brother or sister, regardless of tribe or religion.
- Defending the dignity of every human life.
- Choosing justice and the common good over selfish personal or regional interests.
The bishop made a direct appeal to those in public office and positions of authority, insisting they must prioritize the welfare of all Nigerians. He stressed that the cries of the poor and the unemployed must not be ignored.
Practical Steps Towards Healing
Bishop Odetoyinbo also provided practical guidance for how Nigerians can embody the Christmas spirit. He encouraged families to use the season to rediscover love, forgiveness, and prayer within their homes. He urged individuals to share generously with those in need, no matter how small the gift.
Expressing deep concern, he spoke about the plight of internally displaced persons (IDPs) across Nigeria. He stated that they deserve genuine care, comfort, and dignity, and should not be treated as mere statistics. Furthermore, he called for renewed efforts to:
- Rescue victims of kidnapping and insurgency.
- Restore peace to communities torn by violence.
- Ensure the safety of lives and property nationwide.
Concluding his message on a note of faith, Bishop Odetoyinbo urged all Nigerians to place their worries, their families, their work, and the nation itself at the manger of the Christ Child. He expressed trust that God would bring the healing, peace, and fulfilment the country desperately needs.
