Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki and former Vive-President Atiku Abubakar
President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, on Sunday, felicitated with all the Christian faithful in the country and the world over as they celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ as symbolised by the Christmas festivities. Saraki, in a statement by his Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu, in Abuja, also urged Christians to use the festive occasion to pray for unity, peace and prosperity of the country.
In the same vein, former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar felicitated with all Nigerians, particularly the Christian faithful on the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.
Saraki called on all Nigerians to rededicate themselves to the service of humanity in line with the true teachings of Jesus Christ which emphasize tolerance, patience, brotherly kindness, care for the needy and love for one another, among other virtues.
“The yuletide season presents us an opportunity once more to love, share and forgive. I urge all Nigerians to utilize the period to pray for unity, peace and prosperity in the nation.
“We must also rededicate ourselves to the true virtues of faith in God, love for one another, honesty and peaceful coexistence. It is time to make these virtues more evident and practical in our daily lives,” Saraki stated.
Saraki also stated that the 8th Senate and indeed the National Assembly will continue to strive to make life more meaningful for all Nigerians.
He added that the legislature would at all times work to ensure that Nigeria takes her rightful position in the league of nations through relevant legislations and timely interventions.
“I wish all Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year in advance,” he said.
For Atiku, “Christmas is a time of love, therefore, I call on all Nigerians to emulate the essence of this season and unite for the greater good of our dear country.
“Let us also remember our fellow citizens, the men and women of our armed forces, many of whom lost their lives this year fighting to protect us from terrorists and other threats to our national security. We ought to also spare a thought for our brothers and sisters who faced and are facing perils in Libya and the Mediterranean Sea.
“Nabi Isa (Jesus Christ) taught that it is more blessed to give than to receive. So this Christmas, spare a thought for what you can give back to Nigeria. We can give our patriotism, our loyalty and our fidelity to the unity of this great nation that has given us so much.
“And as we unite in celebration of this season, and in reflection of the months past, we must never forget, that to get Nigeria working again is the responsibility of each and everyone of us.
“Therefore, let us be intentional in thinking good thoughts and sowing even better actions to make Nigeria greater today and for all times. I wish you all a Merry Christmas.”
