As Nigeria celebrates Christmas on December 25, 2025, prominent leaders have extended goodwill messages, emphasizing themes of love, hope, and national unity. Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede, and the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) have all issued separate statements, calling for reflection and a renewed commitment to peace.
Governor Bago's Call for Reflection and Hope
In a message released in Minna by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago highlighted the profound significance of Christmas for Christians. He described the period as one for deeper thought on values like love, humility, and goodwill.
The governor urged the faithful to use the season to strengthen their faith and to pray for the peace and prosperity of Niger State and Nigeria as a whole. He advised residents to renew their trust in God, maintain a positive outlook, and commit to being responsible citizens.
Bago reassured the public that his administration is working tirelessly to deliver good governance as part of the New Niger agenda. He expressed strong optimism for the year 2026, stating his government is intentional about breaking new ground to ensure sustained democratic dividends and rapid socio-economic development for the state.
CDS Oluyede on National Unity and Security
In his own Christmas and New Year goodwill message, Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede reminded citizens that the season embodies love, sacrifice, hope, and renewal. He stated it offers a solemn chance to reflect on shared humanity and collective national responsibility.
General Oluyede called on all Nigerians to use the festive period to actively promote peace, tolerance, and unity across the nation's diverse ethnic, religious, and cultural lines. He acknowledged the multifaceted security challenges facing the country but noted that the citizens' steadfast belief in the Nigerian project remains a vital source of strength and motivation for the nation's troops.
Northern Elders Forum's Appeal for Harmony
The Northern Elders Forum (NEF), through its spokesperson Professor Abubakar Jika Jiddere, described Christmas as a season for deep reflection, renewal of faith, and reaffirmation of the values of love, peace, and sacrifice. The forum urged Nigerians to wholeheartedly embrace unity, peace, and mutual understanding.
NEF extended warm greetings to Christians in Northern Nigeria and across the country. In its statement, the forum quoted both the Bible and the Qur'an to underscore the universal message of peace and the divine value of human diversity. It cited Luke 2:14, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men," and Qur'an 49:13, which teaches that diversity is meant for mutual understanding.
The elders implored Nigerians to use the festive season for sincere national reflection, stressing that the country is at a critical juncture where unity, love, and shared responsibility are absolutely essential for progress.
