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Urges Nigerians to remain patriotic despite challenges
From John Adams, Minna
As Christians worldwide celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Abdulmalik Sarkindaji, has urged Nigerians to remain patriotic and imbibe the virtues of Jesus Christ despite the mirage of challenges facing Nigeria as a nation.
The Speaker in a statement by the directorate of media of the House of Assembly to felicitate Christians across Nigeria and worldwide said that as Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, as narrated in the Holy Scriptures, it becomes necessary to remember the teaching of Jesus Christ which is anchored on love, peace and sacrifices.
Sarkindaji who acknowledged the current economic situation in the country and the hardship therein, reminded Nigerians that hope is not completely lost, adding however that “there is always light at the end of the tunnel. light can emerge even in the darkest times, bringing solace and hope”
He pointed out that what is required of Nigerians of all faiths at this critical moment of our national life is patriotism, stressing that “Indeed, God is with us”.
According to him, the recent tragic incidents arising from stampedes in Ibadan, Abuja and Anambra states is a pointer that both the leaders and the led need to re-examine our ways and the need for more sacrifices for a better tomorrow.
He described the incidents as unfortunate but avoidable if proper arrangements were made before embarking on such a humanitarian gesture to the less privileged amongst us.
“While I expressed my heartfelt condolences to the government and families of those who lost their lives in the stampede, we pray that such misfortunes do not revisit our families and communities”.
The speaker however appealed to well-to-do Nigerians that “As we celebrate this blessed season, let us be mindful of those facing difficulties. They are not far from us—our neighbours, family members, and the people we encounter daily, whether in places of worship, markets, offices, or boardrooms.
“Kindness transcends financial status. Those with modest means and those with abundance need a smile or a word of encouragement,” he added