…as Ogun hosts Nine Lessons service

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has urged residents of the state to remain vigilant, security-conscious and proactive during the yuletide season to ensure a peaceful, safe and joyful celebration.

The governor also reminded the people that the true essence of Christmas lies in selflessness and service to humanity, stressing that the season goes beyond professing faith to living a Christ-like life rooted in love, humility and compassion.

Abiodun made the call on Sunday at the Christmas Carol and Service of Nine Lessons organised by the Ogun State Government at the Arcade Ground, Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

He also relayed the Christmas message of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging Nigerians to embrace unity, compassion and a sense of shared responsibility.

“Unity remains one of Ogun State’s greatest strengths. Ours is a land of diverse cultures and traditions, yet we continue to live in peace, proving that there is strength in our diversity and that where unity thrives, progress follows,” the governor said.

He urged residents to extend kindness to the less privileged, comfort the lonely and promote harmony within their communities during the festive period.

“This Christmas season, as we celebrate with our loved ones, let us remember the needy and lift the burdens of those in need. Christ’s message is universal, calling us to live in love, compassion and unity,” he added.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transforming hope into opportunity and opportunity into shared prosperity in line with the Building Our Future Together agenda.

He said the state government would continue to drive development through the ISEYA pillars, with emphasis on equitable infrastructure development and sustained economic growth across the three senatorial districts.

According to Abiodun, Ogun State has emerged as one of the safest states in the country and a preferred destination for investors.

“Today, we stand as one of the fastest-growing economies in Nigeria. This achievement affirms our commitment to building a prosperous, inclusive and globally competitive state,” he said.

“Our greatest asset is not only our physical infrastructure but the unity, compassion and shared purpose of our people,” the governor added.

In his sermon titled “The Best Gift Ever,” the Lead Pastor of Citadel Global Community Church, Pastor Tunde Bakare, described Christmas as the celebration of the greatest gift humanity has received, noting that the season brings hope and good news to the weary and downcast.

Bakare said Christmas is the costliest gift because it cost Jesus Christ His life, yet it remains the only gift that lasts forever and can be enjoyed for eternity.

He added that social status means nothing to Christ, who values every individual equally, noting that while prophecies concerning the first coming of Jesus Christ have been fulfilled, those relating to His second coming are unfolding.

According to him, God does not reject those who genuinely seek Him, whether they already know Him or are still searching.

The service was attended by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Ogun State Governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba, traditional rulers, captains of industry and other dignitaries.

The congregation was also treated to soul-lifting musical renditions by gospel artistes, including Tope Alabi and Laolu Gbenjo.

The Nine Lessons were read by the wife of the governor, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun; the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo; the Methodist Archbishop of RIYE and Bishop of Egbaland, Most Rev’d Adegbemi Adewale; the Head of Service, Mr Kehinde Onasanya; the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Tokunbo Talabi; the Chief Judge of Ogun State, Hon. Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu; the Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide; the Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele; and the governor, who read the ninth and final lesson.