Lawmakers from the National Assembly gathered on Tuesday for the 2025 Christmas Carol organized by the Christian Legislators’ Fellowship, using the occasion to reflect on the spiritual significance of the festive season and pray for Nigeria’s peace, unity, and progress.
The event, themed “Oh Come Let Us Adore Him”, brought together senators and members of the House of Representatives, alongside key legislative staff and officials, in a celebration that combined worship, reflection, and communal prayer.
In his exhortation, Rep. Amos Magaji, Chairman of the House Committee on Health, highlighted the birth of Jesus Christ as a source of hope and restoration for mankind.
Drawing from Luke Chapter 2, he noted that the prophecy of Christ’s birth had brought joy and deliverance to humanity, and urged Nigerians to embrace peace, irrespective of religion, ethnicity, or social standing.
“Jesus came to bring life, hope, and direction. In Him, we find the strength to face challenges, and the certainty that God’s promises for our lives will be fulfilled,” Magaji said.
He emphasised that the Christmas season should inspire Nigerians to reflect on values such as unity, compassion, and service to others.
Senator Ipalibo Banigo, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health (Secondary and Tertiary), echoed the call for reflection, describing Christmas as a time for both personal and national introspection.
Banigo, a former Deputy Governor of Rivers State, prayed for divine guidance over the country and all its leaders, urging citizens to draw inspiration from the teachings of Christ to foster national growth and harmony.
Rep. Bamidele Salami, Secretary of the Christian Legislators’ Fellowship and Chairman of the House Public Accounts Committee, encouraged Christians to remain steadfast in their faith and in their commitment to serving God and humanity.
He also prayed for Nigeria’s unity, emphasizing the importance of collaboration across religious and social divides to strengthen the nation.
Senator Anthony Yaro, Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Diaspora and NGOs, reminded attendees that the festive season offered a moment to reflect on the country’s challenges and to redouble efforts toward collective solutions.
“Christmas calls us to sober reflection and to consider our roles in building a stronger, more unified Nigeria,” he said.
The carol attracted numerous lawmakers, including Senator Diket Plang and Rep. Leke Abejide, as well as senior administrative staff from the National Assembly, notably Dr. Anietie Ukpe, Deputy Chief of Staff to the Senate President.
Organisers said the annual carol serves not only as a religious celebration but also as a platform for lawmakers to promote peace, ethical governance, and national cohesion.
Attendees engaged in singing, scripture readings, and prayers, creating a solemn yet celebratory atmosphere in the National Assembly halls.
The event concluded with renewed calls for Nigerians to embrace tolerance, cooperation, and mutual respect, with leaders stressing that spiritual reflection during Christmas should translate into practical efforts for peace, development, and the well-being of the country.
