Christmas: Abiodun Urges Vigilance, Unity, Compassion as Ogun Holds Carol Service
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has called on residents of the State to remain vigilant, security-conscious and proactive during the yuletide season, saying collective responsibility is key to ensuring a peaceful, safe and joyful Christmas celebration.
The Governor also reminded the people that the true essence of Christmas lies in giving, selflessness and living a Christ-like life, stressing that the season goes beyond the outward profession of faith to practical demonstrations of love, humility and service to humanity.
Governor Abiodun made the remarks at the Christmas Carol and Service of Nine Lessons organised by the Ogun State Government at the Arcade Ground, Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta. At the event, he also relayed the Christmas message of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging Nigerians to embrace unity, compassion and a shared sense of responsibility in building the Nation.
“Unity remains one of Ogun State’s greatest strengths,” Abiodun said. “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.”
The Governor urged residents to use the Christmas season as an opportunity to spread love and kindness, especially to the less privileged and 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,” he said.
Reaffirming his administration’s development agenda, Abiodun said his Government remains committed to building a state where hope is translated into opportunity and opportunity into shared prosperity, in line with the Building Our Future Together vision.
He added that the Government would continue to drive the ISEYA development pillars, with particular emphasis on equitable infrastructure development and sustained economic growth across the three Senatorial Districts of the State.
According to him, Ogun State has, under his leadership, emerged as one of the safest States in Nigeria and a preferred destination for Local and Foreign 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,” the Governor said. “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.”
Delivering a 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 humanity has ever received. He said the season brings good news and hope to those who are weary, broken and downcast.
According to Pastor Bakare, Christmas represents the costliest gift because it cost Jesus Christ His life, yet it remains the only gift that lasts forever and can be enjoyed for eternity. He added that social status means nothing to Christ, noting that every individual is valued equally before God.
He further observed that while all prophecies concerning the first coming of Jesus Christ have been fulfilled, those relating to His second coming are also unfolding. “God does not reject those who genuinely seek Him, whether they already know Him or are still searching,” he said.
The service attracted several dignitaries, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Ogun State Governor Chief Olusegun Osoba, Traditional Rulers, Captains of industry and other prominent personalities.
The congregation was also treated to soul-lifting musical performances by renowned gospel artistes, including Tope Alabi and Laolu Gbenjo.
The Nine Lessons were read by 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 Rev’d 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; the Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele; and Governor Abiodun, who read the ninth and final lesson.
The event ended with prayers for peace, unity and continued progress in Ogun State and Nigeria at large.
