***describes Birth of Christ as symbol of hope for humanity
By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja.
Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State has described the birth of Jesus Christ as a symbol of hope for humanity and called on Nigerians to embody God’s love for humanity by extending same to their neighbours as they celebrate Christmas.
Bello extended warm felicitations to Christians in Kogi State, Nigeria and across the globe as they celebrate Christmas in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Onogwu Muhammed on Sunday in Lokoja.
He said that the season symbolized hope for humanity and encouraged citizens to maintain a positive outlook.
While acknowledging that the holiday was an excellent time to share joy with family and friends, Governor Bello emphasized the importance of sober reflections and prayers for peace, unity and togetherness.
He said that the call for prayers was imperative especially at a time like this “when the country is navigating a new economic course.”
Expressing joy that the people of Kogi State are witnessing another Christmas, Governor Bello acknowledged the boundless mercy and love of God Almighty despite the individual and collective challenges being faced.
He highlighted the administration’s commitment to peace, security, and safety as he noted the remarkable progress made by his administration in socio-economic growth and infrastructural development.
Bello who was giving his final Christmas message as governor of Kogi state, outlined his administration’s achievements in Health, Education, Agriculture, Infrastructure, and Human Capital Development.
He commended the citizens for their support and commitment to the state’s progress since the beginning of his tenure on January 27, 2016.
Bello assured that the quarterly distribution of palliatives to cushion the effects of petroleum products subsidy removal, a government policy, would be diligently sustained by the incoming administration.
He lauds the people for their peaceful conduct and support during the recent governorship election and expressed confidence that the Governor-elect, Ahmed Usman Ododo would uphold and build on the legacy of his administration for inclusive growth.
Governor Bello encouraged Nigerians to promote peace and good neighborliness as they celebrate the Christmas.
He calls for prayers for leaders at all levels of governance and advocated for acts of kindness toward the less privileged, emphasizing that such gestures foster love and peaceful coexistence.
Bello reassured citizens of their safety during the celebrations, emphasizing the state’s preparedness to handle security challenges as he cautioned against, criminal activities. (Ends)