Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated Lagos residents and Nigerians on the celebration of Christmas, urging them to embrace love, peace and compassion as true essence of the season.
Sanwo-Olu in a Christmas message issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Gboyega Akosile, urged residents to exhibit brotherly love to one another.
The governor said that Christmas provided an opportunity for reflection on the birth of Jesus Christ and its significance to humanity.
“As we celebrate Christmas, I extend my best wishes to every Lagosian and Nigerians, especially Christians across the country and in other parts of the world,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu urged residents not to lose sight of core values of the season, stressing the need to strengthen bonds of love and unity within society.
“We must not forget the true essence of the season, which is to reflect on the birth of Jesus and its significance to mankind.
“We should seize this opportunity to strengthen our love for one another by being kind and generous to those around us,” he said.
The governor also appealed to Christians in the state to continue to live in peace and harmony with people of other faiths, describing religious tolerance as key to peaceful coexistence.
“As we mark this year’s Christmas, I urge Christian faithful in the state to continue to live in peace and harmony with believers of other faiths.
“We should emulate the virtues of humility, tolerance, perseverance and compassion as exemplified by Jesus Christ,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu noted that the Christmas season was a time to appreciate collective progress and resilience in spite of challenges faced during the year.
“This season is a time to reflect and appreciate how far we have come together as a people.
The governor prayed for peace and joy in the homes of residents and thanked residents for their continued support for his administration.
“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
