Christmas: Bamidele urges Nigerians to embrace Christ’s love for Peace

Leader of the 10th Senate, Opeyemi Bamidele, has called on Nigerians to use the 2025 Christmas season as a period of sober reflection, renewed hope and a recommitment to peace, unity and national reconciliation.

In a Christmas message issued on December 25, Bamidele said the birth of Jesus Christ, whom he described as the Redeemer and Saviour of the world, remains a powerful symbol of love, redemption and salvation for humanity.

He noted that Christ’s coming continues to offer hope in times of despair, peace amid global turbulence and deliverance from forces that undermine collective well-being.

According to the Senate leader, the celebration of Christmas should go beyond festivity, urging Nigerians to reflect deeply on the state of the nation and the condition of citizens across religious divides.

He stressed that the season provides a timely opportunity for both Christians and Muslims to embrace love rather than violence in the pursuit of personal or collective grievances.

“As we mark Christ’s glorious birth, we should not only celebrate but also embrace His love and continue daily therein in the interest of collective peace,” he said.

Bamidele underscored the universal nature of Christ’s message, describing it as a timeless call that binds broken hearts, heals deep-seated wounds and reconciles estranged communities.

He said the message of love and reconciliation remains relevant in both times of peace and conflict, offering a pathway to national cohesion, rebirth and stability.

He further challenged Nigerians, irrespective of faith, to become agents of peace and harmony, warning against violence, hate speech and divisive tendencies.

According to him, sustainable development, economic growth and good governance can only thrive in an atmosphere anchored on peace and mutual understanding.

“Peace, inspired by Christ’s love, is a condition that guarantees enviable governance outcomes, whether at national or sub-national level,” Bamidele stated, adding that such an environment enables citizens to pursue their aspirations freely and without hindrance.

The lawmaker extended goodwill to Nigerians at home and in the diaspora, wishing them a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year in advance, while expressing optimism that the values embodied by Christmas would guide the nation toward a more stable and prosperous future.