In a spirit of interfaith solidarity and seasonal goodwill, Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, has extended heartfelt felicitations to the Christian community in the state on the occasion of the 2025 Christmas celebration. His message, delivered through a formal statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Mukhtar Gidado, transcends mere seasonal greetings to articulate a vision for communal harmony and shared responsibility.
The governor described Christmas—the commemoration of the birth of Jesus Christ—as a powerful reminder of core virtues essential for any thriving society. “This season reminds the faithful of the enduring virtues of peace, honesty, mutual love, and the fear of God,” the statement read. Governor Mohammed emphasized that these values are not exclusive to Christianity but form a universal ethical foundation that should be upheld by all residents, irrespective of religious, ethnic, or political affiliations. This call is particularly significant in Nigeria’s diverse social landscape, where differences can sometimes be exploited for division.
Moving beyond abstraction, the governor framed the holiday as a practical opportunity for personal and communal renewal. He encouraged citizens to use the period for introspection, prayer, and the strengthening of social bonds through acts of forgiveness, respect, and love. A key practical recommendation was for residents to actively “exchange visits and share gifts,” including with neighbors of other faiths. This, he suggested, is a tangible step toward building the “strong communities” necessary for the state’s development.
The message also directly addressed the socio-political context. Governor Mohammed expressed appreciation for the “patience and resilience” of the Christian community in the face of what he termed “divisive and misleading narratives.” He positioned unity itself as the state’s “strong defence against intolerance and falsehood,” implicitly acknowledging the challenges of misinformation and sectarian tension.
On governance and security, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive policies, justice, and fairness. He linked the festive season’s theme of peace to the tangible issue of public safety, noting that “the protection of lives and property” remains a top priority. He credited improved collaboration with security agencies for addressing challenges and called for continued public support for security operatives—a vital partnership for maintaining lasting peace.
Concluding with a forward-looking assurance, Governor Mohammed thanked residents for their support since his tenure began in 2019 and pledged that development programs would continue to be equitably distributed across the state before the end of his term in 2027. His final wishes for a joyful Christmas and prayers for peace and divine blessings upon Bauchi and Nigeria underscored the message’s overarching theme: that collective celebration and shared purpose are foundational to progress.
Reported by Olaide Ayinde for the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
