Christians have been reminded to fully utilize this Christmas period to extend love to one another and to the less-privileged in society.
Reverend Lawrence Adika of Molete Baptist Church, Challenge, Ibadan stated this during a sermon to mark this year’s Christmas celebrations.
Reverend Adika was of the opinion that without the extension of love Christmas celebration was incomplete.
In a message, the Pastor-in-charge, Molete Baptist Church, Reverend Edward Alabi, said all Christians while celebrating Jesus who is the reason for the season, must also emulate Him through doing good deeds and being charitable to the others.
Reverend Alabi urged Christians to not only celebrate the birth of Christ but also his death and resurrection.
Members of the congregation, who were well dressed for the serviced appreciated God for making them witness another Christmas despite the economic downturn in the country.
The Federal Government has declared Monday, and Tuesday, December, 25 and 26 2023, and Monday, January 1, 2024, as public holidays to mark Christmas and New Year’s Day celebrations, respectively.
The Hon. Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government felicitates with Christians and all Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora on this occasion.
Dr Tunji-Ojo enjoined Christians to emulate the life of Jesus Christ in his practice and teachings of humility, service, compassion, and patience.
He stressed that peace and security are critical prerequisites for economic development and prosperity
The minister assured that the Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will continue to put in place effective measures for the security of lives and property
He urged Nigerians to be security conscious, and report any suspicious persons or activities to the nearest security agencies.
He reiterated that the Yuletide season calls for discipline to protect the lives and property of everyone in their respective communities and the nation as a whole.
Tunji-Ojo admonished all citizens to remain focused that, the year 2024 will be a better year with the Renewed Hope agenda of the President.
Wife of Osun State Governor, Mrs Titilola Adeleke has distributed N100,000 each to over 250 aged residents in the spirit of festive season.
The gesture was part of the efforts of the Wife of the President, Mrs Oluremi Tinubu to cushion the effect of the current hardship occasioned by fuel subsidy removal.
Distributing the cash on behalf of Mrs Tinubu in Osogbo, Mrs Adeleke emphasized the need for the elderly to embrace routine checks to ascertain their health status.
While appreciating Mrs Tinubu for the kind gesture, Mrs Adeleke tasked members of the society to be alive to their duties to ensure the betterment of all.
She urged parents and guardians to nurture their children in the way of God and be friendly with them to know their strengths and weaknesses to tackle them.
In an address, the wife of the Deputy Governor, Deaconess Olusola Adewusi admonished the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the elders’ financial support scheme
The physically elated beneficiaries unanimously prayed to God to replenish the conveners and grant the administration a resounding office success.
The beneficiaries of the Wife of the President “Elderly Support Scheme were drawn from the thirty Local Government Areas and Modakeke-Ife Area Council.
The 250 beneficiaries were also given free medical checks at the event.
A few days before the celebration of Christmas and New Year, security operatives in Oyo state say they have put various measures in place to ensure that people enjoy a crime-free Yuletide.
Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps, NSCDC Oyo state commandant, Dr Michael Adaralewa said the command had deployed two thousand, five hundred personnel to different points to enhance and maintain a peaceful environment during the Yuletide.
Dr Adaralewa gave residents assurance of a safe and secure society during the Yuletide, saying armed squads have been monitoring the state to ensure that all the flash points are secured.
Police Public Relations Officer in Oyo state, Mr Adewale Osifeso said the command had rejigged the already existing security architecture to comprehensively cater for security needs at the Yuletide season and beyond.
Mr Osifeso noted that mechanisms had been put in different places such as recreation centers and all the black spots in Oyo state.
The Police spokesman therefore called on the public to report any suspicious character in their environment through these mobile phone numbers, 0705549513 and 08081768614 for quick intervention.
General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye has reassured Nigerians that God is capable of fixing the country.
Pastor Adeboye said this in Abeokuta on the occasion of the Christmas Carol and service of Nine Lessons organized by the Ogun State Government.
In the sermon entitled “Jesus Christ the Truth” the religious leader advised the people to put their trust in God and his capability to reposition the country as well as renew all aspects of the people’s lives.
Earlier, Governor Dapo Abiodun who read the ninth lesson at the event had promised to implement more people-oriented policies and programmes while urging the citizens to intensify prayers and support the efforts to turn around the fortunes of the country.
The State Deputy Governor, Mrs Noimot Salako-Oyedele, the Olu Ilaro and Paramount ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle and the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Mr Olakunle Oluomo, also took different lessons during the service.
The programme held at the Arcade Ground, State Government Secretariat, Oke Mosan, Abeokuta reflected a carnival that featured performances by different choirs and prominent gospel artistes, including the Ayan Jesu and Laolu Gbenjo.
The event was graced by Former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, former Governor Olusegun Osoba and Former Minister of Finance, Mrs Kemi Adeosun among others.
The Lagos State Police Command has said it will reappraise its rules of engagement following the death of a lawyer, Bolanle Raheem.
Raheem was shot dead by a police officer while inside a vehicle with her husband in the Ajah area of Lagos, on Christmas Day.
Her death came weeks after a similar incident happened in the same location.
Lamenting the incidents, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, in a statement on Monday, said an order for the case to be investigated was in place, just as he condoled with the family of the deceased and urged citizens to remain calm.
The statement read, “The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Abiodun Alabi, fdc, has expressed heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Barrister Bolanle Raheem who was shot dead by a police officer in Ajah on Sunday, December 25, 2022.
“On the instruction of the Commissioner of Police, the errant officer has since been taken into custody alongside his team members. The CP has equally directed that the case be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Yaba, for in-depth investigation.
“This has become one too many, especially bearing in mind that a similar incident occurred at the same location less than three weeks ago. The condemnable incident is against the standard operating procedures (SOP) and rules of engagement of the Force, and, to say the least, is embarrassing.
“Beyond this incident, the Nigeria Police Force will carry out a reappraisal of its rules of engagement in a bid to put an end to such avoidable ugly incidents.
“The Lagos State Police Command hereby appeals to the good people and residents of Lagos State to remain calm as the Command is already in constant touch with the Nigerian Bar Association and other relevant stakeholders towards ensuring that justice totally prevails.”
The Nigerian Bar Association has said it will ensure that justice is served in the case of a lawyer, Bolanle Raheem, who was shot dead by a police officer on Christmas Day, while inside a vehicle with her husband in the Ajah area of Lagos State.
Reacting, the National Publicity Secretary, NBA, Akorede Lawal, described the incident as unfortunate, adding that the president of the association, Yakubu Maikyau, was monitoring the situation.
He tweeted, “We are aware of this unfortunate incident. This is yet another crime against a lawyer. Regrettably, our member is gone. The NBA President @YCMaikyauSAN is right on this and we shall ensure that justice is duly served.”
Meanwhile, the Police Public Relations Officer, Lagos State Command, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, has said the officer responsible for the killing and others have been taken into custody.
He tweeted, “Unfortunate and avoidable incident that was. The ASP that shot and two others with him have since been taken into custody. They are to be moved to the SCID for further investigation.
“The Lagos State Police Command condoles with the family, friends and colleagues of Barrister Bolanle Raheem. “The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Abiodun Alabi, has been in touch with the family and the Nigerian Bar Association since yesterday and has given firm assurances that just
The Speaker, Osun State House of Assembly, Right Honorable Timothy Owoeye wants Nigerians to take advantage of the celebration of the birth of Jesus to pray for peace and the sustainability of Nigeria.
Right Honorable Owoeye in a Christmas message by his Media Aide, Mr. Kunle Alabi stressed the need for Christians to reflect and re-dedicate themselves to the teachings of Christ, which were anchored on sacrifice, love, peace and truth.
The Speaker enjoined Nigerians to always strive to be role models as Christ who lived and died propagating the message of love, peace and true co-existence among mankind.
He noted that at this point of Nigeria, everyone should seek God’s intervention in alleviating the present economic hardship.
The Oyo State Director of the National Orientation Agency, Mr Kayode Odedokun, has urged residents of the state and Nigeria in general not to despair, but rather begin to look for a silver lining behind the current dark cloud, praying that the balmy days will soon return to the people.
Mr Odedokun, who stated this in a yuletide message to the people also said the present administration both at the State and Federal levels was doing its best to reclaim the glory of the nation and put things in order.
The NOA state Director, therefore, charged all and sundry to look beyond the present travails hunting the country, saying that the storm will be over in a recorded time.
Mr Odedokun adds that “people should join hands with Government at all levels in performing their civic duties as expected of them, keep the new Naira notes in good form to avoid early mutilation, stop spraying in parties, and avoid other abuses of the new notes.
Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has felicitated Christians in Oyo State and across the country on witnessing another Christmas.
The governor, who stated that Christmas presents a golden opportunity to celebrate Christ, his humble beginning and the lessons his life taught, charged Christians to emulate Jesus Christ in all ways.
A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, indicated that the governor also charged residents of the state to be conscious security-wise during the Yuletide and to say something whenever they noticed something untoward or unusual.
Governor Makinde who maintained that criminalities have reduced drastically in Oyo State as a result of the efforts of his government through its investments on security as well as the effectiveness of the security agencies, said residents have a huge role to play in upping the ante.
He said: “I celebrate with all residents of Oyo State and all Nigerians on witnessing the 2022 Christmas festivity.
“It is another opportunity to celebrate Jesus Christ and the lessons his life taught humanity; lessons of humility, selflessness, godliness and service.
“I encourage everyone to use the opportunity of the occasion to remember the life of Christ and emulate him.
“I also charge our people to be alert and sensitive during the Yuletide, especially with regards to security.
“While appreciating residents of the state for the roles they have played towards a more secured Oyo State, I encourage them to be alert at this period and as I always say, when they see something, they should say something.
“Again, I congratulate everyone and wish them a Merry Christmas.”
At this season in Bethlehem, a little town of no consequence, something phenomenal took place on a dark, starry and wintry night.
It was a holy night when floods of light swarmed around some shepherds abiding by their sheep by night.
Then came the sonorous voices of the angelic host, heralding the birth of a unique child born of a virgin woman by the name of Mary, and espoused to Joseph from the lineage of David.
The message from the angels was succinct a saviour christened Jesus Christ has been born.
This is the genesis of Christmas.
Nativity Scene
Jesus’ birth, a special gift to men by God, was one that offered hope to humanity hitherto condemned to eternal loss by the grievous fall in the Garden of Eden when Adam and Eve disobeyed God.
The mood of the heralding angel captured the immeasurable mercy of God offered unto men, even in their sinful state as the angels chorused, glory be to God in the highest and on earth, peace and goodwill to all men.
Undoubtedly, humanity today is in dire need of peace as the world grapples with one turmoil or the other.
In Nigeria for example, citizens currently swim against the tide of insecurity, kidnapping, banditry, armed robbery, ritual killings and terrorism with people living in apprehension day and night and uncertain of tomorrow.
God foreseeing the state of things sent Jesus Christ, known as the Prince of Peace, Emmanuel, Counselor, Wonderful and Everlasting father to offer a way out of the turbulence.
The route to this lies in his lifestyle which is an incomparable model for man to follow.
As a shepherd, his leadership example is a beacon to all those in positions of authority today on how to manage and ensure the welfare of people.
Typically, peace is the rallying point of this season and goodwill; hence, Nigerians should do all within their power to promote harmony across religious, political and ethnic divides.
Like Jesus Christ, political leaders should demonstrate goodwill towards the populace by formulating policies that will promote their well-being.
Leaders need to relate with their followers with every sense of humility giving room to criticisms despite their positions, for the birth of Jesus Christ exemplified humility, as he was born in a manger, though King of kings and Lord of lords.
Citizens, on their part, should also complement the efforts of leaders by shunning activities that endanger peace including provocative utterances, the spreading of fake news and all forms of violence.
Religious leaders equally also have a role to play in enthroning peace in society.
There is no denying the fact that they are a leading voice in moulding the opinions and attitudes of their adherents.
As the world celebrates Christmas, it behoves on all and sundry to work together and change the current narrative in the country for the better just as Mahatma Gandhi, a former Prime Minister of India, says, “be the change that you wish to see in the world”.
The Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has felicitated with Christians on the occasion of the birth of Jesus Christ, urging them to celebrate the Yuletide with love.
Governor Adeleke, in a statement issued by his Spokesperson, Mallam Rasheed Olawale described Christmas as a moment that reflects the love of God for mankind.
The governor called for a renewed commitment to the service of humanity in line with the true teaching of Jesus Christ.
The statement reads, “This season is another opportunity to rededicate ourselves to the true teachings of Jesus Christ, which has love at its heart. In love, we will have no trouble enduring each others’ differences and live in harmony, which holds the key to prosperity”.
He noted in the message, “As much as I share in the joy that comes with the period, may I indulge us not to forget the very essence of the celebration, and in that regard, ensure we use the occasion to bond with our neighbours and more, help the needy.”
While enjoining Christians to be moderate in their celebrations, Governor Adeleke called for prayer for the country and Osun State in particular to overcome the myriad of challenges that has hampered progress and impactful governance.
The governor directed the various committees in charge of rice distribution to be fair and avoid partisan considerations noting that the rice distribution was necessary to cushion the effect of the hard times on the citizenry.
Governor Adeleke projected a better situation for the people in the New Year, charging them to prepare their PVCs to elect good leaders that will serve their interests.
As Christmas moves closer, residents of Osun State have lamented the high cost of food items occasioned by the increase in prices of petroleum products across the nation.
Radio Nigeria Correspondent, Mojisola Oladele who visited Osogbo the state capital and Ilesa town, observed that buying and selling moved at a moderate pace.
A visit to the markets revealed that most buyers purchased clothes and shoes of average prices for their children and wards.
A foodstuff trader in Igbonna Market, Osogbo, Alhaji Maruf Bashiru said a bag of rice sells between #32,000 and #38,000 per bag depending on quality, a bag of brown beans popularly referred to as “Oloyin” is sold for #35,000 against last year price of #33,000 and the white beans has reduced to #40,000 against #44,000 per bag sold last year, 25 litres of vegetable oil increased from #27,000 to #31,500 and the 5 litres of the same which formally sold for #5000 now goes for #7500.
Alhaji Bashiru appealed to the government to intensify efforts at addressing the high cost of transportation and insecurity across the nation.
A palm oil trader in Atakumosa Market, Ilesa, Mrs Taiwo Olaniyi who said 25 litres of palm oil is now being sold for #26000 also called on the government to assist farmers so as to increase their production.
Also contributing, a yam flour seller in Oluode Market, Osogbo, Mr Sunday Adebayo said a bag of yam flour which was sold last year for #130000 is now going for #150000, a basket which is one-fourth of a bag sells for #37,500 while a bag of cassava flour which was sold at #8000 last year is now sold for #10000.
Mr Adebayo who appreciated God for the gradual patronage of customers expressed the hope that the current prices would not increase further but reduce to encourage buyers.
A poultry dealer at Sabo Market, Ilesa, Mrs Bimbo Fatola said a table-weight turkey sells from #35,000 upwards, while chickens from native hen, old layers, Noiler and Broiler sells for #3500, #4000, #6000 and #10000 respectively.
In an interview with Radio Nigeria, a civil servant in Osogbo, Mr Israel Fatoki and a resident of Ilesa Town, Mrs Toyin Oke who decried the high cost of food items noted that the present economic situation of the country was caused by high foreign exchange rates, unofficial increase in the prices of petroleum products, insecurity amongst other negative factors, would lead to a low key yuletide celebration.
They appealed to the federal government to ensure an upward review of workers’ salaries which would serve as palliative measures to cushion the current harsh economic situation.
The Palace of Olubadan of Ibadanland Oba Senator Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II was agog on Wednesday as children, numbering about 500 and their parents within and around the Alarere area of Ibadan trooped to the Palace to meet with Santa Claus, popularly referred to as “Father Christmas” as part of celebrations of this year’s Christmas festivity.
Speaking while receiving the Father Christmas alongside some of the children that paid him a courtesy visit at the carnival-like programme, Oba Balogun rejoiced with the children and their parents for the occasion, the first of such to be celebrated by him as the Olubadan of Ibadanland and counselled the parents to take proper care of their children.
In a press release made available to journalists by his Personal Assistant (Media), Oladele Ogunsola, the monarch, told the parents that they should always be conscious of their responsibilities over their children which are God-ordained.
“I urge our parents to please know that should they fail their children, they have definitely failed God. Give them sound home training as well as western education.”
“Our children are our future. Whatever our achievements or accomplishments in life are, if our children are not the ones to be proud of, we have not achieved or made any accomplishments. I’m happy to receive these children in my palace today as part of this year’s Christmas celebration and I pray that the author of Christmas would preserve these children for us and make them responsible and respectable children in society”, he added.
While congratulating the Christians for this year’s festivity, Olubadan reminded them of the essence of the annual event which he described as an expression of agape love and asked them not to be carried away by the fun-fare always attached to the occasion but to always reflect on its purpose and juxtapose it with their lifestyles towards making necessary amends for the essence of the occasion to be fulfilled.
He also urged them to use the occasion to pray for a peaceful and hitch-free election holding early next year, reminding them that “since this is the only remaining religious festivity preceding the all very crucial elections, we should use the opportunity to take our matter before the creator of heaven and earth and our all-knowing God in whose power alone resides success of the electoral exercise”.
At the occasion, the organizer of the programme, who is also the Palace Chaplain, Pastor Olusoji Adediji said the purpose of organizing the programme was to praise God for upholding the palace since Olubadan came to the throne and to identify with the residents of the Alarere area which presently hosts the palace without laying emphasis on religious differences.
“I must acknowledge the open arms with which Olubadan accepts me and all my activities since he came to the throne not minding his religious background as a Muslim. I must say I’m not in any way surprised because our referred father has never been a religious bigot but an open-minded person all his life and this has in no small way played a very big factor in his peaceful reign so far”, the Chaplain added.
Before the children visited the Father Christmas arena where they received free gifts, there were songs ministration, and prayers for the monarch, his household, Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria in general.
The Federal Government has declared December 26th and 27th as well as January 2nd, 2023 as public holidays to mark the Christmas and New Year celebrations respectively.
This was confirmed by the Interior Minister, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, in a statement released on Friday and signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Belgore Shuaib.
The public holidays, the statement says, is to celebrate Christmas, Boxing Day, and New Year.
Ogbeni Aregbesola urged Christians to emulate Jesus and reflect on his teachings as they celebrate.
“We must imbibe the life of Jesus Christ in His practice and teachings on humility, service, compassion, patience, peace, and righteousness, that His birth signifies,” He stated.
The Minister noted that it is the best way to portray Christ and celebrate his birth.
“The Minister also assures that the Government has put in place effective measures for the security of lives and property and expects Nigerians to support the efforts of security agencies by providing useful information that will assist them in the performance of their duties,” the statement further read.
“He wishes all Christians in particular a happy Christmas and all Nigerians a peaceful and prosperous New Year celebration.”
Ogbeni Aregbesola admonishes all citizens to remain focused and expresses confidence that the year 2023 would be a better year for everyone.
Ghana weaving is more popular during festive periods and because December is a month of celebration, we have compiled some stylish hairstyles for you to explore and pick your choice.
Simple Ghana Weaving Styles can never go out of vogue and by now, we know that this is absolutely true, especially during festive periods.
There is something about this hairstyle that adds youthfulness to the face and makes one appear glowing.
Ghana weaving fits all face types and it does not matter what shape of face you have, Ghana weaving will also work for you.
Simple Ghana Weaving Style is one protective style that can never go out of fashion and we know that! The amazing thing about this hairstyle is how it adds youthfulness to your face and makes you glow.
Besides the fact that they require little attention and maintenance, we’ve observed that Ghana weaving fits all face types.
So you don’t have anything to worry about!
When it comes to fashion, there are lots of outfits and hairstyles you can explore and one of these is the Ghana weaving hairstyles.
Ghana weavings are a more stylish hairstyle than the braided hairstyle because of the creativity of its design.
Ghana weaving which originated from the African Ghanaian tribe is a type of hairstyle you can make to bring your creative ideas to life.
As a fashionista, you can weave your hair into any shape and design you want…
Ghana braids are a form of twists mostly found in African countries.
They are stylish and detailed and are as fierce as a fashion choice.
They also tend to look great and yet are extremely easy to do.
As the Christmas holiday declared by the Federal government ends today, the transport situation in some interstate motor parks witnessed a low turnout of passengers.
This is even as the commuters said transport fare remains unchanged.
Our correspondent who monitored the situation however reports that the passenger’s large turnout was witnessed at the Obafemi Awolowo standard gauge railway station, at Moniya, Ibadan.
During a visit to Iwo road interstate motor parks, passengers unlike what obtained a few days to the Christmas celebration witnessed mean turn out of passengers while the transport fare from the unit to Lagos ranged between N1,500 and N3,000 depending on the distance of passengers destinations and choice of vehicle.
The situation was not different at Ojoo, a challenge where interstate commercial transporters assured members of the public of stability in transport fare.
Radio Nigeria however observed that Ibadan to Lagos and Abeokuta ranged between N1,500 and N4,500 depending on their choice of vehicle while Ibadan to Ilorin cost N2,000.
In an interview, a park manager at Iwo road, Mr Isaac Bamidele and his counterpart at challenge motor park lamented the low passenger’s turnout attributing it to the free train ride declared by the Federal government.
Radio Nigeria took time to visit Obafemi Awolowo standard gauge railway station located at Moniya where passengers in their numbers protested the non-availability of tickets due for 2 p.m train departing Ibadan to Lagos.
Two passengers who spoke to Radio Nigeria said the ticket should have been sufficiently made available as the Federal government has declared it free.
As at the time of filing this report, an effort to reach the public relations officer of Ibadan NRC was unsuccessful.
A federal lawmaker representing Iseyin/Itesiwaju/Kajola/Iwajowa federal constituency, Oyo State, Honourable Shina Peller has identified humility, love, peace, unity, justice, tolerance and righteousness as some of the things that Jesus Christ stood for, which must be emulated by all Christians.
Hon. Peller stated this in an official statement made available to the press as his felicitating message to Christians on the occasion of 2021 Christmas celebration.
In the statement, the federal lawmaker observed that every Christmas is an opportunity for Christians and all to reflect deeply on the life of Jesus Christ for the purpose of emulating his good deeds which include promoting love, peace, unity, justice and forgiveness.
The statement read:
“I felicitate with all Christians on the occasion of Christmas celebration, which marks the birth of Jesus Christ, otherwise known as Prophet Isa (Peace be unto him) by Muslims.
“Truly, every Christmas should be a period of deep reflection on the life of Jesus Christ with a view to learning from his humility, tolerance, righteousness and all the good things that he stood for.
“So, as we mark the birth of Jesus Christ, the best part of the celebration should be emulating his virtues which include preaching peace, love, unity, justice, forgiveness, reaching out to the needy and less-privileged, as well as addressing and treating fellow beings the best ways we would love to be addressed and treated.
“I pray that this season fills our hearts and homes with love, peace, happiness, goodness and abundant blessings from God. More importantly, may God give us the strength and courage to contribute purposefully and resourcefully towards nation-building. Amen.
“Once again, compliment of the season to you all.”
Osi Basorun of Ibadanland, Dr. Azeez Adeduntan has called on Christians to exhibit love and promote peaceful coexistence among adherents of other religions.
He stated this in his christmas message in Ibadan, Oyo State capital.
Dr Adeduntan said the country could only experience development when there is peace and harmony among the people urging them to always see themselves as one, regardless of their religion or political affiliation.
The internationally revered Cardio Vascular Surgeon and Oyo State Governorship hopeful said the people need to continue to pray for the country and the leadership at all levels.
He urged Nigerians to forge a binding national consensus to put the progress and well-being of the country above all other considerations, so that no height of human accomplishment will be beyond the nation.
“I join our Christian compatriots and all other Nigerians in giving thanks to God Almighty, whose Grace and benevolence has helped our nation to overcome many challenges it has had since we celebrated Christmas last year.
‘The annual commemoration of the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ is a most auspicious time for us, as individuals and as a nation, to rededicate ourselves to the virtues and ideals which the Messiah preached and exemplified during his earthly ministry’ .
‘Let us all therefore resolve this Christmas to make the ideals of peace, harmony, tolerance, love and goodwill to all even more manifest in our interactions with others’.
Share love, and show gratitude, as Christians all over the world celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.
This is the submission of the assistant Pastor of Foursquare Gospel Church, Bodija, Ibadan, Pastor Kayode Babatunde during his message to the Christians, to celebrate the season.
Pastor Babatunde said a lot of people have not had time to count their blessings from God but rather, were full of ungrateful words.
He said that, every citizen should remember the less-privileged around them, as it would attract God’s blessings.
As the world celebrate Christmas, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has called on residents of the state on witnessing this year’s Christmas festivity, urging them to continue to live in love and harmony.
A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr Taiwo Adisa quotes the governor as saying Christmas presents to the world an opportunity to evaluate the lessons of peace, love and sacrificial living, which Jesus Christ taught through his life.
According to the governor, residents of Oyo State must celebrate the Yuletide with caution, observe necessary precautions such as proper sanitisation, use of nose covers and maintenance of social distancing, in order to keep the COVID-19 virus at bay.
Governor Makinde equally charged the residents of the state to adhere strictly to COVID-19 protocol and stay safe amid rising cases of the virus in the country.
He called on Christians and adherents of all other religions in the state to always be at peace and to demonstrate love and brotherliness, stating that development and progress can only take place in an atmosphere of love and tranquility.
“As we celebrate Christmas, I celebrate with all residents of the state.”
“The Christmas festivity presents us all with an opportunity to relive the lessons of love, peace and sacrificial living that Christ taught with his life.”
“It is an opportunity to celebrate and make merry but we must also imbibe the lessons of love and harmonious co-existence.”
“As a state government, we will continue to do everything possible to continue to uplift the state. But we can only do so with the support of our people.”
The governor also advocated for moderation by residents of the state during the Christmas celebrations, urging them to be security-conscious and to stay safe.
“While rejoicing with Oyo State residents, I advise them to do everything in moderation, as the times we are in demand that we remain security-conscious and observe all necessary protocols to prevent the spread of COVID-19.”
“Security is the responsibility of all and sundry, so all residents must be observant and report any untoward movements in their environments. The 615 Security Emergency Number is working in Oyo State, please report any suspicion regarding security.”
Most intra and inter state motor parks in Ibadan metropolis have been experiencing large turnout of passengers as the Christmas celebration remains two days The situation according to our correspondent may like influence increase in the transportation fare as commercial vehicle owners continue to use the avenue to charge passengers based on the distance of their destinations and number of luggage at their disposal. Our correspondent who monitored the situation at inter state motor at Ojoo, Iwo road and challenge, reports that Ibadan to Kano, Kaduna, Sokoto and Abuja ranged between N6,500 and 11,000 depending on the choice of vehicle of the passenger. While Ibadan to Ondo, Akure, Ado Ekiti, Ore, and Lagos ranged between M2,000 and N3,000, cost of travelling from the ancient city to Benin, Warri, Onitsha and Portharcout ranged between N6,050 and N9,050. A commercial motorist at Ojoo motor park, Mr Aleshinloye Taiwo however said the cost of the transport fare remain stable despite the situation in the country.
Speaking in the same vein, an assistant park manager at Iwo road new motor park Gbagi, Mr Asuri Adu said since the assumption of park management system in the park, inter state commuters have been mandated to desist from imposing abysmal fare on passengers.
The situation was not too different at some taxi parks within Ibadan as residents who were trying to make last minutes shopping and passengers arriving the ancient city experience more than 50% rise in the usual transportation fare. Rotimi Famakin
It has been a trend for commercial activities to boom during festive periods. But reverse is the case now in some major market in Ibadan Radio Nigeria Ibadan interacted with traders and customers at some markets in Ibadan the Oyo State capital ahead of the Christmas and New Year festivities. A common cause of concern which the traders claim to be the reason for low patronage is increase in prices of commodities A rice seller at oritamerin and Bodija market who said sales had not been bought attributed it to price and market forces Insert Similar, two pepper and tomatoes traders at shasa market complained that sales had fallen below their expectations, pointing that hike in prices of ingredients had not helped matters.
The story was not different at gbagi market where fabrics are being sold, the traders complained that expensive prices of clothes and shoes were discouraging a lot of buyers from buying.
Three customers who spoke with Radio Nigeria at gbagi market, said they had come to make few purchases basically for their children, pointing out that the present economic situation country called for much prudence in spending
They appealed to government to do more to address the dwindling economic fortune of Nigerians while expressing optimism that things would be better the New Year.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has congratulated Christians in the state on the occasion of the 2020 Christmas, calling on them to use the opportunity of the season to pray for the state and its leadership. In a Christmas message signed by his Chief Press Secretary,Mr Taiwo Adisa, the governor equally urged Christians across the country to emulate Jesus Christ, who, according to him, is the reason for the season, by showing love to others, living in harmony with their neighbours and demonstrating the spirit of brotherliness. Governor Makinde also warned everyone to continue to adhere strictly to the COVID-19 guidelines as they go about celebrating Christmas.
