Xmas: Northern Governors, Abuja Minister preach peace, tolerance

Bala Mohammed gave an address to mark the Christmas celebration.

The Northern States Governors Forum on Tuesday called on Christians to spread the virtues of peace, love and charity, which underscored Christ’s mission on earth as they celebrate Christmas.

In a Christmas message issued in Minna, the forum’s Chairman and Governor of Niger State, Babangida Aliyu, called on Christians to use the opportunity to pray fervently for an end to the numerous challenges confronting the nation.

The forum’s statement that was signed by Mr. Aliyu’s Chief Press Secretary, Danladi Ndayebo, said there was no better time to preach and internalise Jesus Christ’s mission on earth than now owing to increasing intolerance in the country.

He urged Christians to continue to co-habit peacefully with non-Christians so as to engender sustainable peace that was needed for the growth and development of the nation. He urged political leaders to remain committed to the promotion of their citizen’s welfare under their watch, irrespective of ethnic, religious or political affiliations.

Mr. Aliyu wished Christians a joyful celebration and prayed for the warmth of God’s love to fill every home during the festive season.

In his Christmas message, the Abuja Minister, Bala Mohammed, has urged residents of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, to spread the gospel of love, tolerance and peaceful co-existence.

The Minister gave this charge on Tuesday in an address to mark the 2013 Christmas celebrations at Area 11, Garki I District, Abuja.

Mr. Mohammed congratulated the residents, particularly the Christians, on this occasion and remarked that the celebration calls for sober reflection as well as emulating the good works of Jesus Christ.

He further charged residents of the Nigerian capital to rededicate themselves to the service of God and humanity to make the World a better place.

The Minister expressed gratitude to God for the privilege and mercy He has granted, as Nigerians join Christians in other parts of the World to commemorate this day in an atmosphere of peace and tranquility.

He appealed to all residents of Abuja to continue to be good neighbours to their fellow residents, irrespective of religious belief because the best in the sight of God is the most pious.

Mr. Mohammed enjoined residents to resolve in our commitment to make selfless service to growth and development of the nation. He also appealed to them to continue to supplicate to God for the well-being, peace and prosperity of our nation as well as its leadership.

The Minister urged Christians to use the occasion to reflect on the life of Jesus Christ and to continue to imbibe his teachings, which are primarily premised on selflessness, sacrifice, patience, modesty and spirituality. He remarked that the celebration also calls for sober reflection and spiritual rejuvenation as Jesus Christ lived his life for the entire mankind.

On security, the minister assured that all security outfits in Abuja are adequately prepared to be on top of any unexpected security breach during and after the festivity period.

He further assured that the Abuja administration will continue to guarantee the security of the lives and property of all residents, irrespective of political or religious affiliations; and therefore called on residents to always report any suspicious movement to the law enforcement agents.

(NAN)