The governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has urged Nigerians to renew their faith in God and hope for a better future, as the challenges confronting the nation are surmountable.
Speaking at the 2023 Christmas Carol and Service of 9 Lessons, held at the Arcade Ground, Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Prince Abiodun called on Nigerians not to lose sight of the values that define them as a people, but continue to love one another.
He said that true measures of success were beyond economic achievements, as it lies in the collective resolve of the people to grow together with a common destiny.
He emphasized the need for all Nigerians to be their brothers’ keeper, noting that unity can only be achieved by supporting and uplifting each other.
The governor averred that Christmas period holds significance beyond the celebration and euphoria of Jesus Christ’s birth, as it provides an opportunity for sober reflection and thanksgiving.
He called on Nigerians to show kindness to one another, especially to those who are currently facing challenges.
He said, “This event is beyond the celebration and euphoria of the remembrance of the birth of our Messiah; it is a time for sober reflection and thanksgiving. As we celebrate, we must be conscious of those around us who are struggling with one challenge or the other.”
The Gateway State helmsman said his administration in the past four years, has successfully implemented its ISEYA vision without bias, enumerating his administration’s strides to include: construction of more than 500 kilometers of roads across the state, building of the Agro Cargo Airport, houses, provision of adequate health care facilities, education, among others.
Noting that his government has been fair, just and equitable to all section of the state in project distribution, in keeping to his promise not to develop any part of the state at the expense of others, Governor Abiodun pledged to continue implementing programmes and polices that would have direct impact on the lives of the people.
In his sermon, titled; ‘Jesus Christ, The Truth,’ the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, reminded everyone that they were God’s creation and that God has the ability to repair or recreate what He had created
Taking his text from John 8:32, Pastor Adeboye highlighted that God is the ultimate authority, controlling the earth and times, reassuring the congregation that when God opens a door, no one can shut it.
Some dignitaries at the occasion included the wife of the governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, the deputy governor, Mrs. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, the Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olakunle Oluomo, former President Olusegun Obasanjo and his wife, Bola, former governor, Olusegun Osoba, former military administrators: Oladeinde Joseph and Daniel Akintonde, former deputy governors; Salimot Badru, Yetunde Onanuga, Senator Sefiu Kaka, former Nigeria’s Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Sarafa Ishola.
Others included the Alake and paramount ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, the Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, the Olu of Ilaro, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, among others.
