Dapo Abiodun calls for vigilance, unity during yuletide

Dapo Abiodun, governor of Ogun, has implored residents to remain vigilant and security conscious during the yuletide to ensure a peaceful celebration.

The governor spoke on Sunday at the Christmas carol and service of nine lessons organised by the state government at the Arcade Ground, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

Abiodun said Christmas is not only about professing faith but about living out the values of love, humility and service to humanity.

He also conveyed the Christmas message of President Bola Tinubu, calling on Nigerians to embrace unity, compassion and shared responsibility.

“Unity remains one of Ogun state’s greatest strengths. Though we are diverse in culture and tradition, we continue to live in peace, showing that where unity thrives, progress follows,” the governor said.

Abiodun urged residents to remember the needy and promote harmony in their communities, adding that Christ’s message calls for love, compassion and unity.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the Building Our Future Together agenda and the infrastructure, social well-being, education, youth empowerment and agriculture (ISEYA) development pillars.

Abiodun said the focus remains on equitable infrastructure development and sustained economic growth across the three senatorial districts of the state.

He added that Ogun has emerged as one of the safest states in the country and a preferred destination for investors.

“Today, we stand as one of the fastest-growing economies in Nigeria. This affirms our resolve to build a prosperous, inclusive and globally competitive state,” he said.

Tunde Bakare, lead pastor of Citadel Global Community Church, in his sermon titled ‘The Best Gift Ever’, described Christmas as the celebration of the greatest gift to humanity, which brings hope to the weary.

Bakare said Christmas represents the most expensive gift to humanity, as it came at the cost of Jesus Christ’s life, yet it remains eternal and accessible to everyone, irrespective of social status.

He added that while prophecies about Christ’s first coming have been fulfilled, those concerning his second coming are also unfolding.

The service was attended by Olusegun Obasanjo, former president; Olusegun Osoba, former Ogun governor; traditional rulers, captains of industry and other dignitaries.

Gospel artistes, including Tope Alabi and Laolu Gbenjo, rendered musical performances, while the Nine Lessons were read by top government officials, traditional rulers and the governor.