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Christmas: NYCN Calls For Unity, Sacrifice, Leadership For National Development

Published

2 years ago

December 25, 2024

Joel Ajayi

The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has urged the Nigerians to use the lessons from Christmas to build a nation that is founded on unity, peace and prosperity.

In a statement he signed and made available to this medium, Wednesday, NYCN President and Secretary Board of Trustees, Amb. Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo said the birth of Jesus Christ symbolizes a renewal, a new beginning that brings peace and the possibility of a better future. As young people, we must draw inspiration from this

He said: “As we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ this Christmas, the National Youth Council of Nigeria extend warm greetings and heartfelt wishes to Nigerian youths and everyone across the country. Christmas is more than just a time for festivities—it is a season that encourages deep reflection on the values that bind us together.

“This time of celebration reminds us of the importance of love, compassion, and unity, principles that are essential in our individual lives and the collective progress of our nation.

“Christmas transcends religious and cultural boundaries. It serves as a reminder of the power of togetherness, the strength that comes from community, and the joy found in sharing with others. This season challenges us to reflect on our actions, our relationships, and our contributions to building a harmonious society. The teachings of Christmas—selflessness, love, and kindness—are timeless and continue to inspire us, particularly as we navigate the challenges of modern life.

“In this season of joy, let us reflect on what it means to be Nigerian youth in today’s world. It is easy to feel overwhelmed by the economic challenges, insecurity, and the overwhelming sense of hardship faced by many in our society. Yet, the message of Christmas calls us to rise above these difficulties, to embrace hope and resilience, and to renew our commitment to making a positive difference in our communities.

“The birth of Jesus Christ symbolizes a renewal, a new beginning that brings peace and the possibility of a better future. As young people, we must draw inspiration from this message and carry it forward in our daily lives, with the understanding that we are the future of Nigeria. The work we do today will shape the tomorrow of our country, and it is our responsibility to ensure that we build a nation that is founded on unity, peace, and prosperity.

“As Nigerian youths, we must acknowledge the crucial role we play in the future of this country. We must rise above the challenges and be proactive in creating the change we wish to see. Unity is paramount to progress, and it is in our diversity that we find our greatest strength. Nigeria is made up of people from different ethnic, cultural, and religious backgrounds, yet our diversity should not divide us. Rather, it should unite us as we work toward common goals for the betterment of all Nigerians.

“In this Christmas season, NYCN under my leadership urge all Nigerian youths to foster a culture of inclusivity and collaboration. Let us set aside divisions and focus on what we have in common—the desire for peace, security, and prosperity. Our shared humanity should drive us to build bridges rather than walls. As young people, we have the power to shape the future by embracing our differences and using them to our collective advantage.

“We must also extend kindness to those who are less fortunate. Christmas is a time for giving, and as young leaders, we have the power to make a difference. Whether through charitable initiatives, community service, or even simple acts of kindness, we can all contribute to making someone’s life better. Our society needs more young people who are ready to serve and support others, especially in times of hardship. In doing so, we can embody the true spirit of Christmas.”

He added: “Furthermore, I call on Nigerian leaders to take meaningful steps toward good governance, youth empowerment, and the reduction of poverty. The youth population is one of the greatest assets this country has, yet many young Nigerians are still faced with unemployment, lack of opportunities, and limited access to resources. It is time for leaders to prioritize the welfare of the youth, providing them with opportunities for education, skills development, and job creation.

“The youth of Nigeria are capable of driving the change this country needs. However, this can only happen when our leaders commit to policies that empower young people and provide the necessary infrastructure for their development. There must be a concerted effort to ensure that every young person has access to the tools and resources needed to thrive. This is essential not only for the well-being of our youth but also for the future prosperity of the nation.

“Additionally, there needs to be a greater focus on good governance and accountability. The nation’s resources must be used for the benefit of the people, especially the young population, who will drive Nigeria’s future. We cannot afford to allow resources to be mismanaged or wasted.

“This Christmas, as we celebrate the birth of Christ, let us renew our commitment to the values of selflessness, sacrifice, and love. As young people, we must understand that the future of Nigeria depends on the actions we take today. Our country is in need of leaders who are willing to put the needs of the people first, who are ready to make sacrifices for the common good, and who are committed to creating a more prosperous, just, and equitable society for all.

“In conclusion, I encourage every Nigerian youth to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas and apply its lessons in their daily lives. Let us embrace unity, work together for the betterment of our nation, and commit ourselves to making meaningful contributions to society. Let us also task our leaders to focus on good governance and youth empowerment as a means of reducing poverty and ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.

“May this Christmas season bring peace, joy, and hope to all Nigerians. Let us move forward into the new year with renewed purpose and determination to build a better Nigeria for ourselves and for future generations.”

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Nigeria at 66: ‘We Must Not Lose Faith in Nigeria’ — FCC Boss Omidiran

Published

19 hours ago

October 1, 2026

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Honorable Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, has called on Nigerians to use the occasion of the nation’s 66th Independence Anniversary to renew their faith in Nigeria, strengthen national unity and recommit themselves to building a more inclusive and prosperous country.

In her 66th Independence Day message, Hon. Omidiran described October 1 as more than a celebration of freedom, saying the anniversary provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey, acknowledge its progress and challenges, and renew the collective determination to build a nation where every citizen has a sense of belonging.

According to the FCC Executive Chairman, the Federal Character Principle remains particularly important to the quest for national cohesion because equitable representation promotes a sense of ownership and confidence in the Nigerian project.

“Nigeria is a nation of great diversity and
enormous potential. Our responsibility is to ensure that this diversity becomes a bridge that connects us rather than a barrier that separates us. Every Nigerian deserves to feel that he or she belongs to this country and has a role to play in its development,” Omidiran said.

The FCC boss called on government institutions at all levels to remain committed to fairness, equity, accountability and inclusive governance, while urging citizens to support efforts aimed at strengthening national institutions and promoting peaceful coexistence.

“We must not lose faith in Nigeria. The challenges before us are real, but so are the opportunities and the enormous human and natural resources available to us. Every citizen has a responsibility to contribute his or her own quota to building the Nigeria we desire,” she stated.

The FCC Executive Chairman also urged young Nigerians to remain committed to acquiring knowledge and skills, entrepreneurship, innovation, sports and other productive ventures, describing the youth as critical stakeholders in the country’s future.

“As we celebrate 66 years of independence, let us remember that the Nigeria we want cannot be built by government alone. It requires the commitment of all of us – leaders and citizens, young and old, from every part of the federation. Together, we can build a Nigeria where justice, fairness, opportunity and peace are available to all,” she said.

Omidiran reaffirmed the FCC’s commitment to the effective discharge of its constitutional mandate and to supporting efforts that promote equitable representation and inclusive national development across the federation.

The former lawmaker wished Nigerians at home and abroad a peaceful and memorable 66th Independence Anniversary, praying for continued peace, stability, prosperity and progress for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“Our differences should never be greater than our common identity as Nigerians. Let us continue to choose unity over division, service over self-interest and hope over despair. The Nigeria of our dreams is possible if we all play our part,” Omidiran said.

“On behalf of the Federal Character Commission, I congratulate all Nigerians on this 66th Independence Anniversary. May this occasion renew our patriotism, strengthen our unity and inspire us to work together for a stronger, more equitable and prosperous Nigeria. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” she added.

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