Governor Benedict Ayade has called on Nigerians to be patriotic and alive to their civic duty ahead of the forthcoming general elections in 2023.
He asked Nigerians to ensure that they come out and vote for candidates of their choice.
This was contained in his Christmas message released on Saturday and signed by his media adviser, Mr Christian Ita.
Governor Ayade maintained that Nigeria was now at that bend when love was needed as a balm to heal and bind the people.
“We must be meek to one another, pull together and support one another. It is the only way that we can mend the chasm and build bridges of unity as a nation. This season of Christmas has afforded us a unique opportunity to achieve that,” he further enjoined.
Ayade charged Christians to use the opportunity of the Christmas celebration to reaffirm their love and compassion towards one another.
Ayade urged them to reflect on the import of the birth of the saviour, Jesus Christ and its redemptive hope to Billions of Christians around the world and reignite the flame of love exemplified in Christ’s birth.
Ayade said Christians should rededicate themselves to the values of love, peace, sacrifice and tolerance as necessary ingredients for peaceful coexistence.
“Christmas underpins the redemptive role of Christ to mankind, just as it stresses the pivotal place of sacrifice, necessary for a peaceful and harmonious world.
“So, as Christians, we must remind ourselves that love is the first requirement for a better and peaceful world.”