In his annual Christmas message, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called on residents and all Nigerians to embrace the foundational virtues of the season: love, peace, and compassion. The governor’s statement, issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, moves beyond seasonal greetings to frame these values as critical social pillars for a thriving, multicultural metropolis like Lagos.
Governor Sanwo-Olu extended his heartfelt wishes to Lagosians, Nigerians, and Christians worldwide, marking the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. He stressed that the period offers a vital opportunity for collective reflection on the significance of this event for humanity.
“We must not lose sight of the core values of this season,” the Governor urged. “The true essence is to reflect on the birth of Jesus and its profound significance to mankind. This reflection should translate into tangible action—strengthening the bonds of love and unity within our society by being kind and generous to those around us.”
Expanding on this call to action, the governor highlighted the practical application of “brotherly love” in a diverse urban context. This concept, he implied, extends beyond familial or faith-based ties to encompass civic responsibility, neighborly support, and a shared commitment to the common good, especially in a city facing complex socio-economic challenges.
A significant portion of the message was dedicated to promoting religious harmony. Governor Sanwo-Olu explicitly appealed to the Christian community in Lagos to continue living in peace and harmony with people of other faiths. He identified religious tolerance not merely as a nice sentiment but as the indispensable “key to peaceful coexistence” in a state marked by significant religious diversity. He pointed to the virtues of Jesus Christ—”humility, tolerance, perseverance, and compassion”—as a universal model for all citizens to emulate, regardless of creed.
The governor also framed Christmas as a time for communal appreciation and resilience. “This season is a time to reflect and appreciate how far we have come together as a people, despite the challenges we may have faced during the year,” he noted. This statement acknowledges the shared struggles of the populace while fostering a sense of collective progress and hope.
Concluding his message, Governor Sanwo-Olu offered prayers for peace and joy in the homes of all residents and expressed sincere gratitude for the public’s continued support of his administration’s vision. “I pray that this Christmas brings peace to your homes and joy to your hearts. Thank you for your continued support and belief in a greater Lagos,” he said.
The governor’s Christmas message, therefore, serves a dual purpose: it is both a traditional seasonal greeting and a strategic appeal for social cohesion. By linking Christian teachings to universal civic virtues, it reinforces the idea that the spirit of Christmas—characterized by love, compassion, and tolerance—is essential for the year-round stability and prosperity of Lagos State.
