Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has called on residents to remain vigilant and united during the Christmas season.
The governor made the appeal on Sunday at the Christmas Carol and Service of Nine Lessons organised by the state government at the Arcade Ground, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
Abiodun said Christmas goes beyond the open declaration of faith and should be reflected in daily living through love, humility and service to others. He also conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s Christmas message, urging Nigerians to embrace unity, compassion and a shared sense of responsibility.
“Unity remains one of Ogun State’s greatest strengths. Despite our cultural and traditional diversity, we continue to live peacefully, proving that where unity exists, progress follows,” the governor said.
He encouraged residents to remember the less privileged and to promote harmony within their communities, noting that the message of Christ centres on love, compassion and unity.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the Building Our Future Together agenda, driven by the Infrastructure, Social Well-being, Education, Youth Empowerment and Agriculture (ISEYA) development pillars.
According to him, the state remains focused on equitable infrastructure development and sustained economic growth across the three senatorial districts. He added that Ogun has become one of the safest states in the country and a top destination for investors.
“Today, we stand as one of the fastest-growing economies in Nigeria. This reflects our determination to build a prosperous, inclusive and globally competitive state,” Abiodun said.
In his sermon titled The Best Gift Ever, the Lead Pastor of Citadel Global Community Church, Pastor Tunde Bakare, described Christmas as the celebration of the greatest gift to humanity, one that brings hope to the weary.
Bakare said the birth of Jesus Christ represents the most costly gift ever given, as it came at the price of His life, yet remains eternal and accessible to all, regardless of social status. He added that while prophecies surrounding Christ’s first coming have been fulfilled, those concerning His second coming are also unfolding.
The service was attended by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba, traditional rulers, captains of industry and other dignitaries.
Gospel artistes, including Tope Alabi and Laolu Gbenjo, thrilled the audience with musical performances, while the Nine Lessons were read by senior government officials, traditional rulers and the governor.
