L-R: Former Head of State, Gen Yakubu Gowon, welcome the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio to the NTA, VON and FRCN, 20th Anniversary Edition of Service of Nine Lessons and Carols 2023,with the Theme: Jesus Our Hope, at the National Christian Centre, Abuja on Sunday. Photo: Office of the Senate President.
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President of the Nigerian Senate, Godswill Akpabío called on Nigerians to renew their hope in Jesus Christ.
In his speech to mark the ccasion of the NTA Carol Night, 2023 on Sunday night at Ecumenical Centre, Abuja, he noted that the essence of the birth of Jesus Christ was to offer eternal hope to all.
He said: “As we gather here today, united in celebration and joy, we are
reminded of the true essence of Christmas — the birth of Jesus Christ, our eternal hope.
“Let us, therefore, reflect upon
this profound theme of “Jesus Our Hope,” and embrace His love and grace.
“Christmas is a time when hope fills the air, when merriment and goodwill permeate our hearts. Yet, amidst the glittering lights and festive cheer, it is essential to remember the reason for this season — the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.
“In a world grappling with uncertainty, strife, and challenges,
Jesus remains the beacon of hope, offering solace and assurance to all who seek Him.
“We are in the Guinness Book of World Records for the largest
ever ensemble of Christmas Carol Singers. This feat was attained when | was the Governor of Akwa Ibom State.
“We wanted to have a taste of Heaven when the Bible says in
Revelation 7:9 that “… a great multitude which no one could
number, of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues, standing
before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, with palm branches in their hands.”
Akpabío expressed the belief that every tribe from across the breath and lenght of Nigeria will come together in unity, patriotism, and to share the love of Jesus Christ.
“Just as the star led the way to the humble manger in Bethlehem, Jesus continues to light the path for those who place their trust in Him. His birth represents a promise, a divine covenant calling us out of darkness into His marvelous light.
“His life exemplifies limitless compassion, forgiveness, and unwavering love. By embracing Jesus as our hope, we discover strength, redemption, and the promise of eternal life.
“In Nigeria, the power of hope resonates deeply within us. We
have faced our fair share of trials and tribulations, but our faith and the hope found in the message of Jesus have kept us resilient. Today, as we celebrate Christmas in unity and love, let us rekindle that hope within our hearts, inspiring change, forgiveness, and compassion towards one another.
“This Christmas carol event, graciously organized by the
Nigeria Television Authority, serves as a reminder for us all that our hope in Jesus shall never fail because God’s word shall never pass away. His love which was made manifest InChristmas shall never cease and it brings good will and peace to all of mankind.
“In celebration of this, we have come to witness the power of
music, transcending barriers, and touching the depths of our
souls. We are reminded of the angelic music the shepherds
heard when they heralded his birth.
“As we embrace these harmonious melodies, let us remember that they, too, carry the message of hope through the ages, reminding us of Jesus’ everlasting impact on humanity.
“In this season of joy, may Jesus’ birth echo within us all, guiding our thoughts, our words, and our actions. May His hope reignite our spirits, encouraging us to spread love and kindness to those around us. Each small act of goodwill can
illuminate a life, bringing light to the darkest corners of our
world.
“As we sing our carols and rejoice together, may Jesus, our eternal hope, fill us with renewed faith, strength, and purpose. Let us carry His message of love and hope
throughout the year, illuminating our homes, communities, and our beloved Nigeria.”
