Prayers, patience, and bold action can restore Nigeria – Makinde

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State acknowledged the country’s many issues in a Christmas greeting to Nigerians, but voiced faith that they are not insurmountable.

Governor Makinde stated this in his Christmas message to residents of the state, just as he urged Nigerians to remain prayerful and patient, and to support decisive action from the government.

Governor Makinde noted that despite the difficulties that Nigeria has faced, there have also been signs of progress.

He pointed to economic growth, advances in education, and increasing access to healthcare as examples of positive developments in the country.

According to him, it is understandable that the country is going through tough times but residents of Oyo State must believe in God and trust in the government.

He said: “I wish all residents of Oyo State a Merry Christmas. Christmas presents us with the opportunity to relive the message taught by the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ and to follow the path.

“In his birth, Jesus Christ taught us the lessons of love and humility and through his life, we were taught the lessons on sacrificial living and respect for lawful authority.

“I encourage our people to emulate Christ by spreading love and reaching out to others at this trying time.

“As an administration, we are not unaware of the tough times the country is going through but we are doing everything possible to mitigate the effects of the economic hardship.

“Only last week, I signed into law the 2024 Budget of Economic Recovery with a view to beginning the implementation that will rejuvenate our economy and reenergise our people economically.

“But as the saying goes, tough times never last, tough people do. I urge our people to be prayerful and to support our government to beat the situation.

“I also want to encourage them to be conscious of their security during the Yuletide. Security, as I always say, is everyone’s business.

“In your environment, if you see something untoward, please report to the appropriate security agencies through our Citizen Emergency Number 615. Once again, Merry Christmas,” Makinde said.

The governor then called on Christians to follow the footsteps of Jesus Christ by showing love to others and cooperating with the leadership of the society.