Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, has extended warm Christmas felicitations to Christians in the state and across Nigeria, emphasizing the core values of love and peaceful coexistence.
Christmas: A Season for Love and Peace
In a special Yuletide message issued on Thursday, December 25, 2025, and disseminated by his Special Adviser on Media, Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Governor Makinde reminded citizens that the celebration of Christmas is fundamentally about love, as demonstrated by the birth of Jesus Christ. He urged Christians to embody this divine message by showing genuine love to others and fostering harmony within their communities.
The governor specifically called on residents to live in peace with one another and their neighbours, aligning their actions with the teachings of Christ.
A Call for Shared Security Responsibility
Beyond the message of love, Governor Makinde sounded a note of caution, advising residents to maintain a high level of vigilance during the festive period. He highlighted that ensuring security is a collective duty shared between the government and the populace.
He reiterated the importance of the "if you see something, say something" principle, directing citizens to report any suspicious movements or activities promptly. The active Oyo State Citizen Emergency Number, 615, was emphasized as the channel for such reports, with the governor assuring that the state's rapid response system would be activated to address any situation.
"As a government, we have been up to the task in terms of securing the state, but there is still a role for residents to play," Makinde stated, reinforcing the partnership needed for public safety.
NUJ Celebrates Governor Makinde's Birthday
In a related development, the Oyo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) congratulated its Grand Patron, Governor Seyi Makinde, on his 58th birthday. In a statement jointly signed by Chairman Akeem Abas and Secretary Temidayo Adu, the union lauded the governor's leadership style.
The NUJ described Makinde as a visionary and people-centred leader whose administration has redefined governance in Oyo State through transparent reforms and a strong focus on sustainable development. The union noted significant strides in infrastructure, education, healthcare, security, and agribusiness under his watch.
Furthermore, the journalists' body commended the governor for his consistent support for press freedom, capacity building in the media sector, and for treating the media as a crucial partner in the democratic process. The union praised his calm disposition and results-driven approach, which they said has earned him admiration across political divides and made Oyo a reference point for good governance.
The NUJ wished Governor Makinde continued good health, strength, and wisdom, praying for more accomplishments in his service to the people of Oyo State and humanity at large.
