By Laide Akinboade, Abuja 

 Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), had urged Nigerians to use this Christmas celebration to continue to up to Jesus for hope for a better Nigeria 

This was contained in a statement issued by CAN , signed by Archbishop Daniel Okoh

President, CAN, and made available to journalists in Abuja.

The Archbishop extends his warm Christmas greetings to all Nigerians.

The statement reads, “Christmas is a time of joy and togetherness, celebrating God’s greatest gift to mankind, Jesus Christ, our Saviour and the Light of the World. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, we are called to reflect on His values and teachings, which provide hope, peace, and guidance, especially during challenging times.

“This Christmas comes with a mix of joy and sorrow for many Nigerians. The recent stampedes at charity events in Abuja and Anambra, where innocent lives were lost, have left us grieving as a nation. These heartbreaking incidents highlight the growing desperation among our people and the erosion of societal values such as patience, orderliness, and respect for one another. For those grieving or injured, I urge you to find strength in the love of Jesus Christ, whose birth we celebrate. He is the source of our comfort and peace in times of sorrow and our guide to a brighter future.

“The philanthropists involved in these events have, for many years, brought relief and joy to the less privileged during Christmas. Their intentions were noble, and their generosity is commendable and should not be discouraged in any way. However, this year’s tragedies remind us that as a society, we must revisit the values that bind us together. Nigerians must learn to embody Christlike virtues, such as patience, empathy, discipline, and dignity, particularly in times of collective need. It is only by returning to these values that we can prevent such unfortunate occurrences in the future.

“These incidents also highlight the urgent need for our government to prioritise food security. The desperation we witnessed reflects the harsh realities many Nigerians face daily. Jesus Christ, during His ministry, not only fed multitudes with compassion but also called for fairness and justice in meeting the needs of others. Our leaders must remain resolute in the fight against hunger and take decisive steps to ensure that no Nigerian is left hungry or in need. Strengthening the agricultural sector, reducing food prices, and addressing inequality must be at the forefront of governance.

“As we commemorate the birth of Christ, let this Christmas inspire us to be agents of change in our society. Citizens must commit to fostering peace and orderliness in their communities. Leaders must act with compassion and wisdom to create a nation where every individual’s basic needs are met. And as individuals, let us strive to live out the teachings of Jesus by showing love, patience, and care to those around us.

“May this Christmas remind us that Jesus Christ is the foundation of hope and order, and may His light guide us in building a united and prosperous Nigeria. Together, as we look to Him, we can overcome our challenges and usher in a brighter future for all.

“May the joy, peace, and hope of Christmas fill your hearts and homes. Merry Christmas!”.

The Directorate of Road Transport Services (DRTS) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has warned motorists against speeding.

DRTS Director, Abdulateef Bello, gave the warning in an interview on Wednesday in Abuja.

He spoke against the backdrop of the ongoing road construction projects in the territory.

According to the DRTS boss, road accidents associated with speeding, drunkenness and other vices are common during the Yuletide.

He noted that the Christmas and New Year holidays had often led to influx of visitors from other states.

Bello warned that it was important for such persons to drive with extreme caution as they might not be familiar with the FCT.

“There are no excuses for driving with expired drivers licence or none at all, overloading and use of rickety vehicles that could be harmful to passengers,” he said.

Bello added that operatives of the directorate had commenced road surveillance within the territory to ensure safety compliance by motorists.(NAN)

The former Deputy Senate President,  Ovie Omo-Agege says he is optimistic about the future of Nigeria as he extends warm Christmas wishes to Nigerians.

Omo-Agege in his Christmas message to Nigerians on Wednesday, made available in Asaba, said: “May this festive season bring joy, peace, and love to our great nation.

”As we celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, I extend warmest wishes to you and your loved ones.

”As we rejoice, let us not forget the numerous challenges we face as a nation.

He added that the  government’s economic reforms, although challenging, remained necessary steps toward a more prosperous future for the nation.

”We acknowledge that the recent reforms have caused hardship for many Nigerians, particularly with the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of the naira’s multiple exchange rates.

“Nonetheless, it’s essential to recognise that these reforms are designed to address decades of economic mismanagement and put Nigeria on a path to sustainable growth.

“The reforms are crucial for transitioning our economy from import-dependent to self-sufficient, productive, and job-creating. Achieving this ambitious long-term goal requires patience and perseverance.

“Encouragingly, we are already witnessing positive gains, including improved growth rates, reduced imports, increased exports, higher incomes for farmers, and increased FAAC allocations to state and local governments.”

According to the senator, the gains demonstrate that the reforms are yielding positive results, and with continued patience and perseverance, Nigeria can overcome current challenges and emerge stronger, more resilient, and more prosperous.

“As we move forward, it’s crucial that we collaborate to build a brighter future for our nation.

“With perseverance and collective support, we can overcome current hardships and emerge stronger, more resilient, and more prosperous. ”

Looking ahead to 2025, Omo-Agege urged Nigerians to rally behind President Bola Tinubu’s administration as they steered Nigeria through a critical economic restructuring process and implement the Budget of Restoration: Securing Peace and  Rebuilding Prosperity.

According to him, there is need to remain optimistic and supportive as Nigeria navigates this critical phase of economic transformation.

Omo-Agege, however, noted that Delta  has continued to face numerous challenges, including insecurity, poor infrastructure, inadequate healthcare, a struggling economy, and underpaid workers.

”Many communities are left in dire need due to  lack of transparency and accountability in funds allocation.

”Despite its huge potentials, agriculture has been neglected, unlike in many other states.

”This sector is crucial for providing food, creating jobs, and stimulating economic growth.

”In fact, agriculture contributes significantly to the global economy, providing employment, raw materials, and economic development opportunities.

‘Through prioritising agriculture, Delta  can unlock its economic potentials, reduce poverty, and improve the livelihoods of its residents.

“As your opposition leader, I remain committed to driving change and ushering in a new era of progress and prosperity for our beloved state.

“My vision is for a Delta where every resident  has access to quality education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and a living wage. Let’s work together to make this vision a reality.

“Merry Christmas, and may the New Year bring us peace, prosperity, and happiness. God bless Delta State, and God bless Nigeria. ”