The Federal Government and the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) have felicitated Christian faithful at Christmas, a celebration to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ.
The federal government, in a statement issued yesterday and signed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris yesterday in Abuja.
He described Christmas as a season of love, sacrifice and hope.
“These values remind us to care for one another, remain united, and keep faith in our country, even in challenging times.
“Indeed, the patience and resilience of Nigerians will not be taken for granted by the government, and neither will the sweat and toil of Nigerians go in vain.
“The federal government, under President Bola Tinubu remains focused on building a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Nigeria for all.
“As we celebrate, let us remember those facing difficulties, and pray for families affected by the acts of terror,” Idris said.
He urged Nigerians to have a special place in their hearts for security personnel, who continue to defend our lives, property, and homeland, from all forms of threats.
“Let us also use this season to promote peace, kindness, and unity in our homes and communities. Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. God bless you all,” Idris prayed.
Also yesterday, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), while has felicitating Christians in Nigeria and across the world on the 2025 Christmas celebrations, wished Nigerians a happy and prosperous 2026 New Year.
In a statement issued yesterday in Kaduna by its National Publicity Secretary, Prof. Tanko Muhammad-Baba, the forum prayed for hitch-free celebrations and asked for God’s grace and mercy for Nigeria and its citizens.
The ACF stated that the Christmas season was coming at a time of severe economic, social and political challenges, with many families struggling for survival, particularly in the northern parts of the country.
It expressed concern that millions of individuals and communities were contending with harsh living conditions and urged Nigerians to remain hopeful.
The forum called on Nigerians, irrespective of faith or political affiliation, to continue to pray for the return of peace, prosperity and progress in the country.
The ACF also prayed for Nigerian leaders, both temporal and spiritual, to be endowed with wisdom, empathy, love, truth and honesty in their service to the nation.
It further urged the security agencies to renew their resolve in combating terrorism, insecurity, criminality and all forms of social, economic and political destabilisation confronting the country.
The forum expressed optimism that 2026 would usher in a more resilient, united and hospitable Nigeria, where all citizens would benefit regardless of ethnicity, faith, political persuasion or social status.
“God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the forum added.