By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has urged Christians and Nigerians at large to use the Christmas season to pray earnestly for Nigeria and support the ongoing economic reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.In his Christmas message to the people of Kogi State and the nation, Governor Ododo described the Yuletide as a period of reflection, spiritual renewal, and recommitment to values such as service, humility, love, and sacrifice, as exemplified by the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.The governor called on citizens to place Nigeria at the centre of their prayers, noting that the country is at a critical point in its history and requires collective goodwill, unity, and responsible action to achieve lasting peace and prosperity.
According to him, the Christmas season offers an opportunity for Nigerians to strengthen bonds of unity and promote peaceful coexistence across religious, ethnic, and political lines.Governor Ododo also appealed to Nigerians to pray for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, asking God to grant him wisdom, strength, and good health as he leads the nation through a period of far-reaching economic reforms and national renewal. He commended President Tinubu’s reform agenda, describing it as bold, people-focused, and necessary for resetting the nation’s economic foundation and positioning Nigeria for sustainable growth.
The governor said the reforms were already yielding positive results, including expanded opportunities, improved investor confidence, and enhanced fiscal capacity across states, with Kogi State recording significant gains. According to Ododo, the improved fiscal space created by the reforms has enabled his administration to intensify investments in critical sectors such as infrastructure, security, human capital development, and social welfare.He noted that these interventions are aimed at improving the quality of life of residents and laying a solid foundation for long-term development in the state.
Governor Ododo urged residents of Kogi State and Nigerians nationwide to remain patient and supportive of the reform process, stressing that sustainable national progress requires collective sacrifice, shared responsibility, and unity of purpose. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to people-centred governance, accountability, and inclusive development, assuring citizens that their welfare remains a top priority. The governor further encouraged communities to use the Christmas season to promote peace, kindness, and compassion, particularly toward the vulnerable and less privileged in society.
He said acts of generosity and empathy during the festive period would strengthen social cohesion and reinforce the values necessary for national development.Governor Ododo concluded by wishing Christians a joyful Christmas celebration and all residents of Kogi State and Nigerians a peaceful, prosperous, and hope-filled festive season.
