From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna
The Archbishop of Kaduna Province and Bishop of the Kaduna Diocese of the Anglican Communion, Most Rev. Timothy Yahaya, has urged Nigerians to embrace the Christmas season as a time for unity, compassion, and renewed prayer for the country.
In his Christmas message, Archbishop Yahaya described it as a season of joy and salvation.
He also reminded Nigerians that although salvation did not come instantly with the birth of Jesus Christ, it was ultimately fulfilled for the benefit of humanity.
He called on citizens to remember the less privileged, pray for Nigeria, and support the security agencies working to protect lives and property.
“At a time like this, let us support the less fortunate, pray for our nation, and uplift our security forces. Let us also pray for Nigeria to maximize its potential”, he stated.
Archbishop Yahaya expressed hope that the joy of Christmas would overcome the bitterness and division within the country, leading Nigerians towards unity and a shared purpose in building a peaceful, prosperous, and great nation.
Commenting on his participation in a recent Christmas carol organized by the Kaduna State Government in collaboration with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), he described the event as historic and symbolic.
He noted that the carol, the first of its kind since the creation of the state, reflected inclusive leadership and a renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence.
According to him, the gesture signified a return to the spirit of unity that once characterized Kaduna State, where Christians and Muslims celebrated together without division.
“We have a leader who is a unifier and who wants to include everyone as citizens. This has brought joy to the well-meaning residents of Kaduna State,” he said,
He also expressed hope that this initiative would be sustained and replicated across the country.
The Archbishop also highlighted what he termed the “seven messages of Christmas,” derived from John 3:16, emphasizing that Christmas begins with God and centers on love for humanity, regardless of tribe, race, or religion.
He noted that the season promotes giving, sacrifice, faith, and the awareness of everlasting life, urging Nigerians not to reduce Christmas to mere celebrations without contemplating its more profound significance.
