A Nigerian Air Force airstrike, intended to neutralise Lakurawa terrorists, marred Christmas celebrations in Sokoto State on Wednesday as it mistakenly hit two communities in Silame Local Government Area of the state, killing several residents, The PUNCH reports.

This is just as terrorists attacked a military base in Borno State with armed drones, injuring five members of the troops.

Eyewitnesses’ accounts said the accidental bombing in Sokoto claimed the lives of at least 10 villagers and left several others wounded.

The affected communities, Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa, are located near the Surame forest, a known hideout for the Lakurawa sect and bandits.

A resident of Silame, Malam Yahya, told our correspondent that the airstrike occurred around 7am on Christmas Day, disrupting what should have been a peaceful holiday.

He said no fewer than 10 villagers were killed with several others sustaining varying degrees of injuries during the airstrike aimed at the terrorists.

The Chairman of Silame Local Government Area, Abubakar Daftarana, confirmed the attack and expressed shock at the devastation.

“The villagers were sitting peacefully when the bombs started dropping on the communities. They were innocent and peace-loving people who had no criminal record.

“It is too early to confirm the number of people either killed or injured because we are still assessing the development,” he said.

When contacted, the spokesman of the Sokoto State Police Command, ASP Ahmad Rufa’I, declined comments on the matter, saying it was not their operation.

On its part, the Nigerian Air Force promised to investigate the fallout of the airstrike.

NAF spokesperson, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, stated that the operation was conducted based on credible intelligence and surveillance.

However, Akinboyewa assured that the force would investigate claims of civilian casualties.

“The airstrikes were conducted based on credible intelligence from multiple sources, along with confirmatory aerial surveillance. Nevertheless, reports of possible harm to civilians will be thoroughly investigated and we will update you appropriately,” he said.

Also, the Joint Task Force North West Operation Fansan Yamma said military operations were conducted based on thorough intelligence and reconnaissance missions.

In a statement on Wednesday, Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Abdullah, Coordinator, Joint Media Coordination Centre, Operation Fansan Yamma, said the targets struck in the vicinity of Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa were  associated with the Lakurawa group.

He said, “However, it is crucial to clarify that all military operations are conducted based on thorough intelligence and reconnaissance missions.

“This rigorous process is particularly important when targeting groups like the Lakurawa terrorist organisation, as it aims to ensure precision and protect civilian lives.

“Given the serious nature of these operations, the public is urged to rely on confirmed information to prevent misinformation and unnecessary panic.

“There is a significant risk that terrorist groups may attempt to undermine military successes through media disinformation, necessitating caution concerning unverified claims, especially in the ongoing fight against terrorism and banditry.

“Importantly, the targets struck in the vicinity of Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa have been positively identified as associated with the Lakurawa group, reinforcing the justification for the military action taken.”

Borno attacks

The PUNCH learnt on Wednesday that the insurgents launched an attack on Forward Operating Base located in Wajiroko area of Damboa Local Government in Borno State with a drone around 3pm on Tuesday.

Scores of the troops were said to have sustained varying degrees of injuries at a duty post following the attack.

Multiple local sources who did not want to be identified, however, claimed that some soldiers may have died in the attack.

“We heard a sound from the base and at a point, smoke was seen in the hair, the way it looked, someone or people must have died in the attack,” a source claimed.

While the military is yet to confirm the attack, efforts to reach the spokesman of Operation Hadin Kai, Lt Col. A.Y. Jingina, proved abortive as he neither picked nor returned calls.

Also, a signal of the incident sighted by one of our correspondents showed that terrorists launched two attacks on the troops and while one was repelled, the other led left five soldiers injured. The signal said the terrorists, during the first attack, used mortars and other firearms but they were repelled, adding that shortly after, the terrorists used multiple armed drones.

It read, “At approximately 13:00 hours on 23 December 2024, Forward Operating Base Wajiroko in Damboa Local Government Area came under attack by suspected terrorists. The attackers initially launched the assault using mortars and other firearms, but troops stationed at the base successfully repelled the assault, forcing the terrorists to withdraw in disarray.

“Shortly after, at around 13:23 hours, the base was targeted again in a coordinated attack using multiple armed drones equipped with locally fabricated grenades. Observers at the base reported spotting up to four distinct armed drones during the attack.

“Five soldiers sustained injuries during the drone assault. They received first aid and are awaiting evacuation to the 25 Brigade Field Ambulance for further medical attention.   Equipment damage included one damaged gun truck.

“The general security situation in the area is calm but remains highly unpredictable. Despite the attacks, troop morale and combat efficiency are reported to be satisfactory. “

The Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj Gen Buba Edward, could not be reached as of the time of filling this report.

CDS warns locals

Meanwhile, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa,  warned citizens against engaging in any form of trading or transaction with terrorists, bandits and other non-state actors.

The CDS, who lamented that some unpatriotic elements had been trading with these groups, noted that their actions were sabotaging the efforts of the military and other security agencies.

Musa issued the warning on Wednesday after visiting patients at the Defence Headquarters Medical Centre as part of Christmas celebrations, which coincided with his birthday.

He said, “I want to also call on those few ones that think they are making money by trading with those terrorists and bandits. Those terrorists and bandits have no respect for anybody. Once you think you are trading with them they are going to come after you. If they don’t come after you, they will come after, either your relations – your brother, your sister, your wife, your husband. So, please nobody should trade with those guys.

“If we do not encourage them, we do not trade with them, they will not survive. That is the important thing we are saying.”

Musa regretted that terrorism was not nipped in the bud when it began, which, according to him, allowed it to fester to this day.

He said, “The mistakes that were made in the past when this thing (terrorism/banditry) started were that we did not nip it in the bud. We allowed it to get to where it is. But thank God everybody is putting hands together and we are very happy Nigerians are warming up. We are getting a lot of support from Nigerians, a lot of prayers, a lot of information on things that are happening everywhere. We must continue to do that.”

Musa assured that the military would leave no stone unturned to ensure that Nigeria was peaceful in 2025.

He said, “I think since we started to where we are today there is a remarkable improvement in the security situation, and we are going to take that further. That is why I said next year is defining, which means that we will do everything possible to ensure that Nigeria is peaceful.

“We are going to put every effort to ensure that we continue to live in peace. It’s not something that is automatic, but I know if we have the cooperation of Nigerians that is possible because God is with us always. We are going to make sure that Nigeria is better for everyone. “

COAS visits troops

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant-General Olufemi Oluyede, celebrated Christmas with troops of Operation Hadin Kai in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.

During the celebration at the Theatre Command in Maimalari Cantonment, Oluyede commended the troops for their dedication to the fight against insurgency in the state.

He praised their efforts in recent operations, which led to the deaths and capture of many terrorists in rural communities across the state and the North East region.

“Your efforts and success in recent operations shows your level of commitment to the fight against insurgency,” Oluyede said.

He reiterated the commitment of President Bola Tinubu towards enhancing the capacity of the Armed Forces through provision of modern arms, vehicles and equipment to ensure that the war was brought to logical conclusion within the shortest possible time.

The COAS said the Christmas lunch with the troops, including wounded soldiers, provided a unique opportunity to appreciate the sacrifice, loyalty and camaraderie of the troops in the theatre and other operations across the country.

On his part, the Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, commended the effective role of the military in tackling insurgency and pledged sustained support to counter insurgency in the region.

“The state government will not relent in ensuring adequate support to the military in your various operations,” Zulum said.

The governor, who was represented on the occasion by the Secretary to the Borno State Government, Bukar Tijjani, announced a cash support of N2m two to the frontline fighters who sustained injuries.

The National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, says Nigeria is beginning to experience positive results based on the economic policies and reforms introduced by the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

He added that though the reforms have brought some pains and challenges, such discomfort would be temporary.

Ganduje, who appealed for more patience from Nigerians for the government of President Tinubu, assured that by 2025 Christmas, the economy would have stabilized.

Naija News reports the APC Chairman stated this in a Christmas message issued on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu.

“I urge Nigerians to be patient with President Bola Tinubu’s administration as it navigates these tough reforms. Although the process has been challenging, we are beginning to see positive results.

“By next year’s Christmas, I assure you, the economy will have stabilised and will be in a much better position,” Ganduje stated.

The former Kano State Governor said remarkable progress has been recorded by the Tinubu administration in the areas of security, noting that there has been significant reductions in banditry and kidnapping across the country.

Ganduje also reiterated that the APC leadership remains committed to implementing policies that promote sustainable growth, security, and improved welfare for all Nigerians.

He further urged Nigerians to embrace the values of love, peace, and unity exemplified by the life and teachings of Jesus Christ by displaying virtues of selflessness, generosity, and care for the less privileged during the Christmas season.

The Labour Party National Chairman, Julius Abure, has enjoined Nigerians to spread love and unity as they mark Christmas Day.

Julius Abure regretted that many families would be unable to celebrate the joys of the Christmas season as a result of economic hardship ravaging the country.

In his Christmas message on Wednesday, the Labour Party factional Chairman enjoined Nigerians to reach out to families that could not celebrate.

He said that Jesus Christ who was born in a lowly manger lived his entire life working to put smiles on the faces of the less privileged, the poor, the oppressed, the depressed and the sick.

“It will interest you to know that not many homes in Nigeria can afford to join in today’s celebration of Christmas because of the economic challenges Nigeria is facing today. But I am using this opportunity to task the society to show love to a neighbour who may be in one form of lack or the other.

“Also at this time, I think of all the men and women serving in the military to ensure our safety, who may not be privileged to be with their loved ones. Thank you for your service. As I speak, many of our gallant soldiers are in some trenches in many parts of the country ensuring that the terrorists and gunmen are kept at bay for the rest of us to celebrate the Christmas. I urge all Nigerians, particularly the clerics to put these patriots in their ceaseless prayers,” he said.

Abure further called on Nigerians to forgive one another in the season, stating that Jesus Christ is the symbol of forgiveness.

“There is nothing that will bring more joy to humanity than to be ready and willing to forgive the trespasses of our neighbors against us. There is also nothing that will bring more condemnation to humanity than to harden our hearts and to be bitter and vindictive in our feelings towards those by whom we are surrounded.

“I therefore call on Nigerians to imbibe the teaching of Christ that says ‘forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespasses against us.

“What a sacrifice. Today’s celebration can not be complete until we begin to allow the significance of the birth of Christ to manifest in our lives,” Abure stated.

Senators from the southern region of the country have urged Nigerians to believe in the administration of President Bola Tinubu and expect a brighter future.

The lawmakers, under the Southern Senators Forum, acknowledged the hardship in the country, necessitated by the ongoing reforms embarked upon by the Tinubu administration, but added that the future gains expected from the policies, far outweigh the current pains.

The Senators made this known in a Christmas message made available to newsmen on Tuesday by its chairman, Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru.

They described the policy focus of President Tinubu as bold and targeted at laying the foundation for stable economic growth and transformation of Nigeria.

“The forum recognises the economic challenges facing many families in our country today. These are difficult times, but they also present an opportunity for growth and transformation.

“We commend the bold reforms and initiatives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, which are aimed at laying a solid foundation for sustainable economic growth, peace and prosperity in the medium and long term.

“Our strength lies in our diversity, and by working together, we can build a nation that is inclusive, prosperous and strong. We urge all Nigerians to remain hopeful and to keep faith alive.

“Together, through resilience, unity and dedication, we can overcome any challenges and create a brighter future for ourselves and generations to come,” the statement reads.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has described its National Chairman, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, as a think tank and savvy politician.

Naija News reports that the former Governor of Kano State celebrated his 75th birthday today (Wednesday).

In a statement, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, said Ganduje was instrumental in the party’s electoral successes across the nation.

“We celebrate an astute leader, administrator, scholar, philanthropist, and savvy politician who continues to distinguish himself in the many public offices he has been privileged to serve.

“Dr Ganduje’s purposeful, progressive and transformative leadership has guided our great Party to achieving spectacular successive electoral victories and consolidating our position as Africa’s largest and preeminent political party.

“Dr Ganduje’s consultative and inclusive approach has fostered a culture of unity and cooperation in our great Party and positioned it to effectively support the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration,” he said.

APC highlighted that under Ganduje, the party digitalized membership registration, and established its progressives institute while delivering electoral promises to Nigerians.

“On his focused watch, our great Party has achieved laudable feats, including the planned digitization of the Party’s membership register, the establishment of a Progressive Institute and policy think tank, and enhanced synergy between the Party and the government in delivering electoral promises to Nigerians.

“On behalf of the National Working Committee (NWC), leaders, members and supporters of our great Party, we rejoice with a great achiever on this special occasion of his 75th birthday anniversary. We pray the Almighty Allah, in His mercies, to grant our National Chairman long life, wisdom and good health as he continues his service to our great Party and country,” he added.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has congratulated Christians on the occasion of the 2024 Christmas celebration, encouraging Nigerians to maintain their optimism, asserting that 2025 holds the promise of better days ahead.

Naija News reports that the Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the party, Durosinmi Meseko, conveyed this message in a Christmas address delivered on Tuesday in Lokoja, the capital of Kogi State.

Meseko underscored the various economic strategies introduced by President Bola Tinubu, highlighting their potential to yield beneficial results for the country.

He stated that the full impact of these initiatives is expected to manifest in the upcoming year, resulting in enhanced economic conditions for all Nigerians.

“This Christmas, let us celebrate the spirit of hope and renewal. The policies of President Tinubu are already laying the foundation for a more prosperous Nigeria, and we can expect to see tangible results in 2025.

“Let us remain steadfast in our belief that brighter days are ahead. The APC Government has promised to address the challenges confronting the country through its economic reforms, and a tangible impact on the lives of ordinary citizens will manifest in 2025,” he said.

Meanwhile, Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has approved the payment of ₦100,000 Christmas bonuses for civil servants, public servants, and pensioners in the state.

The announcement was made in a statement issued on Tuesday by the state’s Head of Service, Dr. George Nwaeke.

Dr Nwaeke noted that the bonus was approved on Monday to enable workers and senior citizens to celebrate Christmas with ease and joy.

This marks the second time during Fubara’s administration that civil servants will be receiving a Christmas bonus of ₦100,000, which exceeds the national minimum wage. However, it is the first time pensioners are included in the initiative.

In his Christmas message, Governor Fubara called on Rivers residents to embrace peace, love, and unity during the festive season and beyond.

The governor, through a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, emphasized the need for peaceful coexistence to address the country’s economic and security challenges.

The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Kukah, has called on Christians in Nigeria to live up to their calling as the “light of the world” and to take responsibility for fostering a better society.

In his Christmas message delivered on Wednesday, the revered cleric urged Christians to lead by example in addressing the corruption and moral decay prevalent in the country, rather than placing blame on institutions or public servants.

“I appeal to Christians not to forget that we are the light of the world, the city on the hill that cannot be hidden. Christians must not allow the structural weaknesses, the foibles and failures of the Nigerian state, to become an excuse for doing wrong.

“We cannot continue to blame the Constitution, the Judiciary, the Police, or other public servants for the corruption in our society,” Bishop Kukah said.

He noted that corruption is another word for not keeping the words and promises made by Christians at baptism.

“We swore to be faithful to Christ at baptism before we encountered the Constitution. The Constitution is a human instrument with limitations and flaws. However, the Word of God is a divine command and inerrant. Good Christians have the laws of God written in their hearts (2 Cor. 3:3) They need no other law,” he added.

On the day Christians all over the world celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, Bishop Kukah reminded them that the message of Jesus to the world is, peace, joy, love, justice and reconciliation.

He lamented that the forces of secularism are determined to empty Christmas of its core essence which is the good news of joy and light to the world.

“Christmas is increasingly being seen as another holiday or at best, one of the greatest opportunities for smart business returns. We have refused to accept the warning of Jesus that we cannot serve two masters (Matt. 6:2). Today, our world is ravaged by the effects of the seven deadly sins, Pride, Greed, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, and Sloth.

“The world has lost its moral compass, and violence has engulfed our world. The drums of war and death now threaten to drown the good news of the joy that Jesus brought into the world. Nowhere is this tragedy better expressed than in the place where Jesus was born.

“Today, the baby Jesus lies not in the innocence of swaddling clothes in Bethlehem but in the pool of blood that has now engulfed Gaza and its surrounding communities,” Kukah said.

He noted that Christmas offers Christians a time for deep personal reflections on the values and virtues of the Christian witness.

While noting that note that some progress has been made in the area of security in Nigeria in his message, Bishop Kukah, however, noted that “we are not out of the woods yet.

“A comprehensive work plan to secure our nation, with clear datelines, must be put in place. Insecurity is the first child of corruption. We cannot win the war against insecurity without addressing the issues of unemployment and violent religious extremism which create the conditions for violence.

“Religious extremism can only be resolved if the government employs the force of the law and prosecutes the perpetrators as criminals and murderers.”

The Bishop also reflected on the tragedies of stampede that happened in Oyo State, Anambra and Abuja recently, stating that the failures of government to respond concretely toward ending the horrible crisis of hunger and desperation has created the conditions for these avoidable tragedies.

While noting that it is the duty of government to ensure minimum dignity for our people, Bishop Kukah urged the government to work more closely with institutions that help to promote the common good of our society.

He prayed that God grants eternal rest to the dead and console their families.

Governors and ministers yesterday urged Nigerians to be hopeful as President Bola Ahmed Tinubutackles the challenges facing the country through the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

They also urged Nigerians, especially Christians, to always show love, compassion, and tolerance as exemplified by Jesus Christ, whose birth is being celebrated globally today. 

In their separate  Christmas messages, the governors and ministers also stressed the need for Nigerians to pray for the peace.

Governors Dapo Abiodun,(Ogun),, Seyi Makinde, Bassey Otu(Cross River), and Caleb Mutfwang(Plateau).  The ministers were Nyesom Wike( Federal Capital Territory(FCT), Adebayo Adelabu(Power), and Iziaq  Salako (Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare) congratulated Nigerians for witnessing another Christmas.

Prominent leaders who also felicitated Nigerians included former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, erstwhile Labour, and Employment Minister Chris Ngige;  Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Owolabi  Olakulehin; former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi and  National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) Director-General Temitope Ilori.

Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Christopher Musa also rejoiced with troops, whom he praised for their resilience in the anti-terrorism war.

Abiodun called on Nigerians to look beyond the present economic challenges and be optimistic about a better tomorrow.

He admonished Ogun State residents to be tolerant of others with different religious beliefs.   

Emphasing the need for all Nigerians to rededicate themselves to the growth and development of the country, Abiodun reaffirmed his commitment to improving the living standards of Ogun people.

He said: “As we celebrate this special season in moderation, let us all have it at the back of our mind that the present economic challenges facing our nation are ephemeral and there is a bigger picture of hope ahead.

“We must support all the reforms embarked upon by President Bola Tinubu towards the revitalisation of our hitherto weak economy and ensure prosperity.

“This is not rocket science as we have begun to see its positive impacts in all sectors,” 

Makinde called on Christians to use the Christmas season to pray for the state and Nigeria.

Makinde, who prayed for those mourning the loss of their relatives at a children’s funfair in Ibadan last week, advised people celebrating Christmas to do so responsibly. 

He urged residents to report suspicious movements to security agencies through the State Emergency Number 615.

Makinde said: “I wish all Christians and residents of Oyo State a Merry Christmas.

“Christmas presents another opportunity to spread love and to make supplications for our state and our country.

“We should remember those mourning the loss of their children in the recent stampede and pray that God will console them and give them the fortitude to bear the loss.

“I also urge residents of the state to be observant and vigilant at this period. They should report any suspicion to security agencies through 615.

“As we always say, if you see something, say something and the government will do something. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year in advance.”

In Calabar, Cross Rivers State, Governor Bassey Otu urged Nigerians to spread love, kindness, and unity in communities as they celebrate the season.  

He acknowledged the economic challenges confronting residents of the state, assuring  that his  administration is planting seeds for an economic turnaround.’’

His words: “We are planting seeds for economic turnaround and significant progress in our state and country.”

Otu assured that sustained governmental policies will yield positive results in the coming year.’’

He also highlighted the importance of unity and love in overcoming challenges.

In his message, Governor Mutfwang called on Christians to embody the values of love, kindness, and generosity as exemplified by Jesus Christ.

He also called on residents to pray for the peace, unity, and progress of the state and Nigeria.

Plateau Governor Caleb Mutfwang congratulating the people for witnessing the season of joy and happiness.

“It is with profound joy and gratitude to Almighty God that I extend my warmest greetings and best wishes to you as we celebrate the glorious occasion of Christmas,’ he said in a statement by his spokesman   Gyang Bere.

Mutfwang added: “Christmas is a season of love, selflessness, and generosity. It is a time to embrace unity, share with those in need, and renew our commitment to building bridges of understanding and reconciliation.

“I sincerely pray that this season inspires us to work together for peace, uplift one another, and foster the virtues that strengthen our communities.’’

Former Vice-President  Abubakar implored Nigerians  to be guided by compassion and selflessness.

He urged them to cherish the significance of Christmas as a time for reflection and togetherness.

Atiku also urged Nigerians, particularly Christians, to express gratitude for the season despite the many challenges confronting the nation.

He said: “It is a blessing that we can once again celebrate the events leading to the birth of Christ, despite the adversity we face.”

Urging political leaders to make the necessary sacrifices for the nation’s collective good, Atiku also appealed to Nigerians to remain united and embrace one another with love.

“With love and unity, there is no obstacle too great to overcome. Let us, therefore, come together to share love and joy with all people of goodwill,” he added.

Wike urged residents of the FCT to  rededicate themselves to God and be law -abiding.

“Since Jesus Christ whose birth is the reason for the celebration of Christmas obeyed the commandments of God, Christians, too, must keep the commandments, especially by showing love to people around us and teaching others to do the same,” Wike said.

His admonition was contained in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka.

The  minister said “with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola  Tinubu, things will keep getting better.”

Wike congratulated  FCT residents  ‘’for the grace of celebrating another Christmas.’’

He prayed  that God  to celebrate the season would  also ‘’ensure that we all celebrate many more Christmases in good health.’’

The minister also sympathised  ‘’with families of victims of the recent stampede in Abuja’’. 

Power Minister  Adelabu called on  Christians and Nigerians to emulate the selfless sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

He also urged Nigerians to rededicate themselves to the betterment of fellow Nigerians and the country by reflecting on the sacrifice Jesus made to redeem humanity.

Adelabu assured Nigerians of President  Tinubu’s  commitment to delivering on his  Renewed Hope Agenda.

He expressed optimism that Nigerians would soon begin to reap the dividends of democracy.

He said: “On this occasion of the birth of Jesus Christ, this is to wish our Christian brothers and sisters a wonderful celebration.

“Let us all reflect on the sacrifice that the Saviour of the World, made by becoming a mere mortal, in other to redeem us of our sins.

“We are encouraged by this huge and monumental sacrifice of Jesus Christ, to also key into this sacrifice, in giving our support to the economic reforms by President   Tinubu.

The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Isiak Salako, advised Nigerians to expect a better life next year because of the reforms of President   Tinubu.

He also urged Nigerians to exercise patience with the government as it tackles the challenges.

Salako gave the encouragement while distributing rice and fertiliser as well as offering medical services in Ayetoro,  headquarters of Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State.

He said: “On the ground, we have 1,300 bags of rice and 600 bags of fertiliser.  Our party members are benefiting 30 percent of the palliatives, and then the market women, whose coordinator is the Iyaloja will also benefit. The Christian  Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Muslim Communities will not be left out.

“We will also reach out to individual leaders in the five LGs. Our Baales and traditional rulers are also beneficiaries. What we have done is to at least ensure that representatives of the identified groups are on the ground to receive on behalf of their members.

The Olubadan of Ibadanland urged Christians to emulate the virtues of Jesus Christ.

The attributes, according to the monarch, include love, forgiveness, provision for the needy, tolerance, and peace.

Oba   Olakulehin’s message was given at his palace in  Oke Aremo, Ibadan.

Stressing the need to love one another, the monarch stated that lack of genuine love amongst citizens was  ‘’the bane of our society and indeed the world. ‘’

He stressed the need for a Christ-driven love across the world in order to eliminate all the vices and injustice pervading in  the society.

Fayemi urged  Nigerians to remain hopeful and committed to building a better nation despite the challenges of the past year.

The former governor, in a statement  by his media office, described the season as a time for hope, renewal, and reflection.

He highlighted the importance of looking back on the country’s struggles and determining to forge ahead.

“The past year has tested our national resilience,” Fayemi, a former chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, noted.

He added  “We have confronted economic difficulties, security concerns, and social upheavals that have left many struggling to make ends meet. Yet, amid these challenges, the strength, resourcefulness, and enduring spirit of Nigerians have continued to shine brightly.”

He called on Nigerians to embrace the message of Christmas—love, compassion, and sacrifice—and draw inspiration from the sacrifices of Jesus Christ by becoming their brother’s keeper and supporting the vulnerable members of our communities..

Ngige, a one time governor of Anambra State, called for prayer for the nation to overcome all its challenges. 

According to him, the holiness and solemnity of Christmas also offer an opportunity for quiet reflection by Nigerians on their individual lives and the future of the nation.

Ngige described Christ as good news worth celebrating globally and year after year, regardless of the challenges confronting humanity. 

According to him, notwithstanding that Jesus Christ was born under humble circumstances, he remained a phenomenal figure in the history of Christendom and humanity in general.

The former minister urged Christians to emulate Christ and use the period of His birth to show care, compassion, and love to others, especially the less privileged in the society.

The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA)  called on all Nigerians to prioritise their health during the holiday.

NACA  Director General (DG) Ilori, who said Christmas is a time for joy and celebration, stressed thatit also presents an opportunity to make informed and responsible decisions about one’s health.

“We urge everyone to take advantage of the free and confidential HIV testing services available across the country,”  Ilori said in a statement by the agency’s spokesperson, Toyin Aderibigbe. 

CDS praises troops’ resilience in anti-terrorism war

CDS  Musa urged members of the Armed Forces to use the Christmas period for reflection on the immeasurable love of God for them and members of their families. 

Gen.Musa also enjoined them ‘’to ensure the year 2025 is defined by positive changes in the security narratives in all our theatres of operations.” 

To other Nigerians, the CDS said they should continue to abide by the teachings of love, forgiveness, and togetherness as exemplified by Jesus Christ.

In a statement by the Director of Defence Information, Brig-Gen. Tukur Gusau, the CDS noted that the birth of Jesus Christ  heralded good tidings and hope to the hopeless.

The statement reads : “The CDS noted that the year has been eventful, dotted with few incidents. Despite all these, Almighty God has been gracious and merciful unto us as we are alive to witness another Christmas celebration. 

“We do remember with a heavy heart that some of our colleagues who started the year with us, lost their lives in the process of keeping our nation safe from all forms of insecurity occasioned by the activities of terrorists, bandits, and other non-state actors.

“As a mark of respect to our colleagues who paid the supreme price, the CDS urged our troops to ensure the year 2025 is defined by positive changes in the security narratives in all our theatres of operations.”    Gen. Musa also acknowledged troops’ resilience, and their will to fight in various theatres of operations across the nation.

He saluted their ‘’courage and sacrifices in securing the lives and prosperity of our dear country,’’ and assured that the Armed Forces would continue to align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

Prophet Odumeje, the founder of the Mountain of Holy Ghost Intervention and Deliverance Ministry, has made a bold statement about the miracles occurring in his church.

With unwavering confidence, he asserted that the miracles are genuine and divine, warning that anyone who attempts to discredit them as staged will face dire consequences.

According to Prophet Odumeje, a woman had previously claimed to be the mastermind behind the miracles in his church, but now, she is dead.

He ominously stated that the same fate awaits others who dare to make similar allegations against him and his church. The prophet’s words were laced with a sense of gravity, as he declared that if his works are proven false, he would shut down his church, also known as The World Miracle Centre.

Prophet Odumeje’s statements were met with enthusiastic applause from his congregation, who seemed to be utterly impressed by his conviction.

As he spoke in Igbo, he promised his members that they would receive “5H powers” in 2025, further solidifying his reputation as a charismatic and influential spiritual leader.

Watch the video below

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, on Monday, addressed newly promoted Nigerian Army major generals at their decoration ceremony

The defence chief reminded the generals of the impact their leadership has on both the armed forces and the nation.

Speaking at the event, Musa urged the officers to maintain dedication to their duties and uphold the highest standards of military excellence.

Drawing from his operational experience alongside many of the promoted officers in various theaters including Mongonuu, Damaturu, and other strategic locations, Musa praised their commitment to service.

Quoting him, “Having reached the peak of your careers, always remember that the Nigerian Army and the armed forces will continue to rely on the leadership and expertise of individuals like you to safeguard our country and its people. Nigeria is looking up to us. We must do everything to defend democracy in Nigeria and across the sub-region.

“As a Chief of Defense, I am proud to witness this momentous occasion which is a testament of your dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment to the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

“Gentlemen, your promotion is well-deserved recognition of your achievements and a reflection that almost all of you have had one reason or the other to have operated together with you either at the theater, especially Sector 3, Mongonu, Sector 2, Damaturu, Teatr Hekotas, and every other location. And this is a clear indication that there is a reward for hard work.”

Musa added, “It takes men of steel and character for the Armed Forces to succeed and the rank of Major General signifies a high level of responsibility and a deep sense of duty towards the country.

“It is a duty and a task for all of us to perform. We have been dealing with insurgencies, terrorism, banditry for 15, 16 years and still counting and I think it is high time that we dealt with it finally and I know we can do it.

“So I want to call on all of us to put on our thinking caps and make that great sacrifice that 2025 should be a determining year for the armed forces of Nigeria.”

He urged Nigerians to unite in support of the Armed Forces and other security services, saying that the country’s success and progress depended on everyone working together.

Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, the Chief of Army Staff, stated that as the Army works to achieve national security goals, more accountability will be expected of the promoted senior commanders.

He told the major generals that they have a role to perform and that higher rank entails more responsibility “to whom much is given, much is correspondingly expected.”

“This is a fact that the majority fail to come to terms with until they are forced to do so and the boats will start sailing. So, let me challenge you to start perfecting your post-service life in Levos quietly as to bask in the euphoria of your Promotion. However, you must not let such plans interfere with your jobs in any way to avoid a conflict of interest.

“I congratulate the newly decorated Major Generals and their families on their well-deserved elevation to the enviable rank of two-star General in the General Army.

“I particularly congratulate and appreciate the spouses and immediate family members of these celebrants without whose support and prayers their current achievements may not have been possible,” General Oluyede said.