By Joyce Eyaba, JKNewsMedia Intern
HEIGHTENED VIGILANCE and a renewed sense of unity were placed at the centre of Christmas celebrations in Ogun State as residents were urged to remain security conscious and proactive throughout the yuletide season to ensure peace, safety and joy.
The call was made as part of a message delivered by Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun during the Christmas Carol and Service of Nine Lessons organised by the State Government at the Arcade Ground within the Governor’s Office complex at Oke Mosan in Abeokuta.
The governor appealed to residents to approach the season with caution and collective responsibility, while also reminding them that Christmas represents more than the public expression of faith.
He stressed that the season speaks to the values of giving, selflessness and living in love, humility and service to humanity.
He told the gathering that the essence of Christmas lies in being Christ-like in conduct and character, noting that the celebration should be reflected in compassion for others and concern for the wellbeing of neighbours and communities.
During the service, Governor Abiodun also conveyed the Christmas message of President Bola Tinubu, calling on Nigerians to embrace unity, compassion and shared responsibility as the country marks the season.
Speaking on the importance of unity, the governor described it as one of Ogun State’s greatest strengths, pointing to the peaceful coexistence of diverse cultures and traditions across the state.
“Unity remains one of Ogun State’s greatest strengths. Ours is a land of diverse cultures and traditions, yet we continue to live in peace, proving that there is strength in our diversity and that where unity thrives, progress follows,” he said.
He urged residents to allow the spirit of the season guide their actions and interactions, especially in caring for vulnerable members of society.
“This Christmas season, as we celebrate with our loved ones, let us remember the needy, comfort the lonely, and promote harmony within our communities. Christ’s message is universal, calling us to live in love, compassion, and unity,” the governor said.
Governor Abiodun reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building a state where hope is transformed into opportunity and opportunity into shared prosperity, in line with the Building Our Future Together agenda of his government.
He stated that the administration would continue to advance the ISEYA development pillars, with particular emphasis on equitable infrastructure development and sustained economic growth across the three senatorial districts of the state.
The governor said Ogun State had emerged as one of the safest states in the country under his leadership and had become a preferred destination for investors.
“Today, we stand as one of the fastest growing economies in Nigeria. This achievement affirms our commitment to building a prosperous, inclusive, and globally competitive state,” he said.
He added that the strength of the state extended beyond physical infrastructure to the character and unity of its people.
“Our greatest asset is not only our physical infrastructure but the unity, compassion, and shared purpose of our people. Let us extend Christ’s love through acts of kindness by remembering the less privileged and lifting the burdens of those in need,” the governor added.
The Christmas service also featured a sermon titled “The Best Gift Ever” delivered by the Lead Pastor of Citadel Global Community Church, Pastor Tunde Bakare.
In his message, Pastor Bakare described Christmas as the celebration of the greatest gift humanity has ever received, saying the season brings good news and hope to those who are weary and downcast.
He said Christmas represents the costliest gift because it cost Jesus Christ His life, while also being the only gift that lasts forever and can be enjoyed for eternity.
Pastor Bakare told the congregation that social status holds no value to Christ, noting that every individual is valued equally.
He further stated that while all prophecies concerning the first coming of Jesus Christ had been fulfilled, those relating to His second coming were also unfolding adding that God does not reject those who genuinely seek Him, whether they already know Him or are still searching.
The service attracted a wide range of dignitaries, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Ogun State Governor Chief Olusegun Osoba. Traditional rulers, captains of industry and other prominent personalities were also in attendance.
The congregation was entertained with renditions by gospel artistes, including Tope Alabi and Laolu Gbenjo, during the carol session.
The Nine Lessons were read by several leaders and officials, including the wife of the governor, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun; the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo; the Methodist Archbishop of RIYE and Bishop of Egbaland, Most Revd Adegbemi Adewale; the Head of Service, Mr Kehinde Onasanya; the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Tokunbo Talabi; the Chief Judge of Ogun State, Hon Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu; the Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Oludaisi Elemide; and the Deputy Governor, Engr Noimot Salako Oyedele.
Governor Abiodun read the ninth and final lesson, bringing the service to a close amid messages of unity, compassion and shared responsibility for peace and progress during the Christmas season.
