• President calls for renewed hope, belief in prosperous country
From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerians to renew hope and belief in a prosperous Nigeria.
In a personal message to Nigerians to wish them a merry Christmas and a joyous and prosperous New Year, he expressed confidence that Nigeria is on a promising path to restoration and progress.
He acknowledged the transformative changes and necessary reforms his administration has implemented since assuming office, recognising that the efforts have required sacrifices from the populace.
“Be confident that by the strength of our joint endeavour, we will shortly emerge into a new dawn.”
Tinubu assured Nigerians that his government remains committed to alleviating hardships through ongoing palliative measures aimed at supporting the most vulnerable citizens. He stressed that despite the challenges, there is a collective strength that will lead to a “new dawn of prosperity, peace and irreversible progress.”
He urged citizens to remain hopeful and united as they navigate this period of transition. He called on Nigerians to be mindful of their neighbours and those in need during this festive period.
“Kindness transcends financial status,” he noted and urged citizens to offer support and encouragement to one another. He also took a moment to honour the nation’s armed forces, acknowledging their sacrifices in safeguarding Nigeria. He encouraged prayers for both the military and national leaders, asserting that with collective support, they can work towards a prosperous future for the country.
He highlighted the significance of Christmas as a time of love, peace, and unity, while also acknowledging the challenges faced by many Nigerians.
“Christmas embodies the fulfilment of divine prophecy and symbolises the triumph of love, peace, and unity.
“It is a poignant reminder that light can emerge even in the darkest times, bringing solace and hope. This belief resonates with people of all faiths. Indeed, God is with us.”
He expressed solidarity with those affected by recent tragedies in Ibadan, Okija, and Abuja, offering his deepest sympathies to families enduring pain from floods, fires, and accidents.
He called on Nigerians to be mindful of their neighbors and those in need during this festive period.
“Kindness transcends financial status,” he noted and urged citizens to offer support and encouragement to one another.
He also took a moment to honour the nation’s armed forces, acknowledging their sacrifices in safeguarding Nigeria. He encouraged prayers for both the military and national leaders, asserting that with collective support, they can work towards a prosperous future for the country.
He reassured travelers during the holiday season that the government is taking necessary steps to ensure safe transportation routes. This includes free train services and subsidized road transport costs on 144 routes nationwide to ease travel for citizens.