By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan
As Christians worldwide celebrate this year’s Christmas, Bishop of Ibadan Anglican Diocese, Most Rev. Joseph Akinfenwa, has urged President Bola Tinubu to do all within his powers to inspire Nigerians and uplift the country.
Akinfenwa stated this in his Christmas message issued on Sunday in Ibadan.
He also called on leaders at all levels to emulate Christ’s leadership style, adding that divine reward awaits those who defend the cause of the masses.
“To our political office holders, leadership is a trust; there shall be a day of reckoning.
“Let all who are in power today conduct themselves in a way that on the last day, they shall not be disgraced,” he said.
In the light of the current economic realities in the country, Akinfenwa urged Nigerians to celebrate the yuletide with moderation.
He particularly enjoined Christians to avoid running themselves into unnecessary debts because of Christmas.
“Jesus came to set us free; we should not enter into the bondage of debt because we want to commemorate His birth,” he said.
The cleric also expressed sympathy to those who were affected by violent conflicts across the world, especially the Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Hamas wars.
“We pray for divine comfort for families of the dead and divine help for those presently suffering because of these conflicts.
“May God guide the heart of all leaders in the world toward the path of peace,” he said.
Akinfenwa also prayed that 2024 would be a year of peace and progress for Nigeria and the masses.
“In 2024, may our economy bounce back and may the scourge of insecurity truly become a thing of the past,” he said. (NAN)
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