Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has called on Nigerians to renew their commitment to peace, tolerance and mutual respect as Christians across the world celebrate Christmas.
The governor made the call on Sunday at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia, during the 2025 Abia Festival of Carols, organised by the state government with the theme “A Christmas to Remember.” He was represented at the event by his deputy, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu.
Governor Otti urged residents to carry the message of Christmas beyond the celebration venue into their homes, workplaces and communities.
He described Christmas as a season that commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and embodies love, hope, sacrifice and goodwill to humanity.
“As we celebrate this special season, I urge us to extend love to one another, remember the less privileged, and renew our commitment to peace, tolerance and mutual respect,” the governor said. “Let us take the message of Christmas beyond this venue and reflect it in our daily lives.”
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to people-oriented governance, inclusive development and the equitable distribution of democratic dividends across all parts of the state.
“Together, with faith and unity, we will continue to build an Abia State that works for everyone,” he stated.
Governor Otti also commended the organisers of the Festival of Carols, as well as the choirs, musicians, clergy and partners, for their dedication and contributions to the success of the event. He used the occasion to wish Abians a joyful Christmas and a prosperous and peaceful New Year.
In his remarks, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Kenneth Kalu, described Christmas as a season of joy, hope, peace and love, noting that its message remains central to overcoming challenges.
“While Christmas may mean different things to different people, its core message of peace and hope speaks to our resilience and capacity to overcome adversity,” he said.
Prof. Kalu added that Abia State has witnessed remarkable transformation over the past 30 months, marked by renewal, new beginnings and significant progress.
“Abia’s journey affirms that hope is both powerful and transformational,” he concluded.
In a vote of thanks, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Mr. Matthew Ekwuruibe, thanked God for the successful gathering of Abians to celebrate the Festival of Carols. He expressed appreciation to Governor Otti for his support and commended the organisers for their commitment to the success of the programme.
The festival featured choral renditions from various church and group choirs, performances by the Abia Brass Band, and special presentations by Nollywood actors and actresses from Abia State, who presented a gift to the governor in appreciation of his achievements.
The event was attended by the wife of the governor, Mrs. Chidinma Otti; wife of the deputy governor, Mrs. Adaeze Emetu; Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa; Chief Judge of Abia State, Justice Lilian Abai; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba; commissioners, the Head of Service, Senior Special Assistant on Religious Matters, Apostle Kenneth Wiper, other top government officials, clergy and dignitaries.
Nine lessons were read by selected individuals, including the wife of the governor, the Chief Judge and members of the clergy.
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