By Abubakar Yunusa
The Northern Elders Forum(NEF ),has urged Nigerians to use the Christmas season for sincere national reflection, saying the country stands at a critical crossroads where unity, love and shared responsibility are indispensable.
The forum said the festive period should serve as a reminder of the need to rise above divisions and recommit to peaceful coexistence across religious, ethnic and cultural lines.
In a Christmas message issued on Wednesday, the NEF extended warm greetings to Christians in Northern Nigeria and across the country, while conveying goodwill to all Nigerians as the year comes to an end.
The statement, signed by the forum’s spokesman, Prof. Abubakar Jika Jiddere, described Christmas as a season of deep reflection, renewal of faith and reaffirmation of the values of love, peace and sacrifice.
“It is a moment that calls on individuals and nations alike to pause, look inward, and recommit to the higher ideals that sustain peaceful coexistence,” Jiddere said.
Quoting the Holy Bible, he recalled the message of peace and goodwill to all men, noting that it speaks directly to Nigeria’s collective aspiration for harmony and mutual respect.
He also cited the Holy Qur’an, which emphasises the dignity of humanity and the value of diversity, stressing that differences in religion, ethnicity and culture must be preserved through tolerance and understanding.
According to the forum, Nigeria’s diversity is a divine trust that should strengthen, rather than divide, the nation.
The elders again called on Nigerians to use the festive season for sincere national reflection, warning that the country is at a critical juncture that demands unity, love and shared responsibility from all citizens.
Jiddere urged leaders, institutions and communities to reject hate, rise above division and recommit to peaceful dialogue and collective progress.
He also appealed to Nigerians travelling during the holidays to prioritise safety, cautioning that no celebration is complete if lives are lost or endangered.
The forum urged security agencies and community leaders to remain vigilant in protecting lives and property throughout the festive period.
Looking ahead to the New Year, the NEF expressed optimism that Nigeria could overcome its challenges with sincere leadership and responsible citizenship.
The forum prayed that Christmas would bring comfort to every home and that the New Year would usher in renewed hope, national healing and a stronger sense of brotherhood among Nigerians.
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