Lagos: Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has congratulated Lagosians and Nigerians on Christmas, calling on all to embrace brotherly love, unity, and compassion as the true spirit 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.
The governor said that Christmas offered an opportunity to reflect on the birth of Jesus Christ and its significance to humanity.
“As we celebrate Christmas, I extend my best wishes to every Lagosian and Nigerian, especially Christians across the country and in other parts of the world,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu urged residents not to lose sight of the season’s core values, 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 despite the challenges faced throughout 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 residents’ homes and thanked them for their continued support of 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.