Nigeria’s Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, says he believes a strong, united Nigeria, speaking with one voice, is achievable soon to push the country to its rightful position in the comity of nations.
The number three citizen was the chief host on Sunday at the Nigerian Television Authority’s (NTA) Carol Night, 2023, which was held at the National Ecumenical Centre, Abuja.
“I believe that one day, Nigerians of all tribes, peoples and tongues will come together in unity and patriotism, and share the love of Jesus Christ”, he told the gathering.
According to him, Nigerians hold the Guinness Book of World Records for organising the biggest-ever ensemble of Christmas Carol singers, a record that was set when he was the Governor of Akwa Ibom State.
He explained, “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.”
The Senate President showered praises on a former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (retd.), for continuously serving as the grand patron of the Christmas Carols for his dedication and commitment.
He stated, “I used to ask myself a question, what if we were not praying? In a difficult time such as we faced during COVID-19, a lot of people in the world thought Nigeria was going to go down with every household carrying dead bodies, but God thought otherwise because of the prayers of the Church and prayers of good men who struggled with the belief that God will intervene and God intervened not just for Nigeria but for the rest of the world.
“The administration of President Bola Tinubu believes strongly in renewing the hope of all Nigerians; so it is coming very apt at this time. Our hope is being renewed in the activities going on.
“The joy of this Christmas starting from the 3rd day of December shows us clearly that you have been steadfast for 20 years.”
To the NTA, the Voice of Nigeria and the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) that had been organising the carols for the last 20 years, he said he was elated that at the 20th edition, he was Nigeria’s Senate President, a personality known for hosting Christmas Carols.
He spoke further, “I have this belief that the only reason that God made man was for man to praise and worship God and therefore when I had the opportunity to be Governor between 2007 and 2015, I drew the attention on a yearly basis of about 59 countries to know that Jesus has come and therefore we organised the largest choir on earth and we broke the Guinness book of records and it is still there till today. My people named it after me, Godswill Akpabio Choir.
“Just as the star led the way to the humble manager 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 marvellous 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.
“In a world grappling with uncertainty, strife, and challenges, Jesus remains the beacon of hope, offering solace and assurance to all who seek Him.
“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 In Christmas shall never cease and it brings goodwill 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.”
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