Gov. Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State has called on Nigerians to live in peace and harmony as a way of achieving meaningful progress.
He made the call in a Christmas message signed by his Special Assistant on Media, Mr Hakeem Bello and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ikeja on Tuesday.
The governor urged Nigerians to support and co-operate with the authorities to enable the leaders and the governed to contribute to the development of the country.
Fashola, who said security was one of the challenges being faced by Nigerians, enjoined the public to be safety and security conscious, especially during the festive period.
He said: “This passing year has been a challenging one particularly in the area of security. I therefore, urge you, as you celebrate this season of sharing, giving and receiving, to be vigilant and stay safe.
“Be safety and security conscious. Do not drink and drive. Be alert and report all suspicious activities around you to security agencies, using the toll free numbers 767 and 112,’’
The governor also urged Nigerians to love one another and be their brothers’ keepers, saying that love for humanity was the very essence of Christmas.
While wishing Nigerians, particularly the people of Lagos State, a merry Christmas, Fashola urged residents to continue to exhibit tolerance and to avoid acts capable of undermining the peace in the state.
In Uyo, Akwa Ibom’s Gov. Godswill Akpabio urged citizens in the state to always embrace peace, love and unity to promote the interest of the state.
He said in a radio broadcast that: “we celebrate the story which is historic and simple; the story of a child who was born in a manger because there was no room for him at the Inn.
“But his message of love and salvation has earned the freedom anthem of mankind on earth.
“We should emulate his qualities of peace, love and unity as a people.
“I urge you to remain tolerant towards one another as Christ tolerates us and pray for the peaceful coexistence of the country, irrespective our religious differences.’’
The governor assured the people that 2013 would witness more infrastructure and human capital development in the state.
The Federal Government declared Dec. 25 and Dec. 26 as public holidays to mark the Christmas celebration nationwide.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that during the period, Christians seized the opportunity to worship in their different churches, visited relations and well-wishers and exchanged gifts among themselves.