Nyesom Wike, the governor of Rivers State has sent a message of goodwill to the people of the state, and all Christians across the country at Christmas.
In a statement signed issued on Christmas Eve by Dr. Austin Tam-George, the Rivers State commissioner of information and communications, Governor Wike urged Nigerians to draw strength and inspiration from the birth of Jesus Christ, while rededicating themselves to the values of selfless service and the pursuit of the common good.
Governor Wike said that for Christians, the birth of Jesus Christ was not a mere biological incident, but that ‘Christmas represents a moment for spiritual and moral renewal in the lives of individuals and communities around the world.’
Reflecting on the special meaning that Christmas holds for leaders, Governor Wike said: ‘We can use the spirit of Christmas to heal the wounds of acrimony and division, by working together for the benefit of all our people, leaving no citizen or community behind.’
Governor Wike restated the unflinching determination of the State government to foster development in all parts of the State, and to always pursue and defend the interest of Rivers State.
The Rivers’ governor’s message mirrors that of Pope Francis, who said urged Christians to return to the true essence of Christmas lamenting that the season has been taken ‘hostage by materialism‘.
