In a heartfelt Christmas message, Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has called on Christians to use the season’s spiritual significance as a catalyst for national and state-level transformation, focusing on security, economic prosperity, and social harmony.
The governor’s statement, delivered by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Monday Uzor, moves beyond seasonal goodwill to frame Christmas as a timely platform for collective intercession and civic responsibility.
Governor Nwifuru emphasized that the core message of Christmas—God’s love manifested through Jesus Christ—provides a powerful model for societal conduct. “Christmas is a powerful reminder of God’s boundless love, a season when heaven touched the earth and redemption was given freely to mankind,” he stated. He urged citizens to emulate Christ’s virtues of “love, sacrifice, humility, and obedience to God,” suggesting these are not merely personal religious duties but foundational pillars for a functional society.
The governor’s appeal for prayer is deeply contextual, addressing Nigeria’s and Ebonyi State’s pressing challenges. His specific call to “pray earnestly for peace, unity, and all-round development” and for “security, economic growth, and harmony among our people” directly ties spiritual practice to tangible societal outcomes. This reflects a growing recognition among leaders that spiritual and moral renewal is intertwined with practical governance and national cohesion.
Linking this call to his administration’s agenda, Governor Nwifuru reaffirmed commitment to the “People’s Charter of Needs,” which he described as being “anchored on compassion, justice, inclusive development, and service to humanity as exemplified by Christ.” This creates a bridge between the season’s ethos and year-round governance principles, suggesting that the empathy of Christmas should inform policy and leadership.
Furthermore, the governor expanded the role of the citizenry, calling on every individual to become “ambassadors of peace, unity, and hope in our homes, communities, and society.” This shifts the burden of national healing from government action alone to a shared responsibility, empowering individuals to act as agents of positive change in their immediate circles.
Practical assurances accompanied the spiritual appeal. The governor confirmed that “adequate security arrangements have been made to ensure a hitch-free celebration,” acknowledging that prayer for peace must be supported by concrete logistical and security measures. This dual approach of spiritual appeal and practical action provides a more holistic vision for the season.
Ultimately, Governor Nwifuru’s message frames Christmas 2025 as more than a celebration; it is a strategic moment for reflection, prayer, and recommitment to building a “stronger, more united, and prosperous” Ebonyi State and Nigeria. It underscores the idea that the hope born at Christmas can be a active force for addressing contemporary societal challenges when translated into prayerful intention and purposeful action.
Edited by Rabiu Sani-Ali
