Former Ekiti State Governor and immediate past Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), Dr Kayode Fayemi, has called on Nigerians to remain hopeful and united despite the economic and social challenges facing the country.
Fayemi made this call in his Christmas message to Nigerians as Christians across the country celebrated the birth of Jesus Christ and prepared to usher in the New Year. The message was issued on Tuesday by the Head of the Fayemi Media Office, Mallam Ahmad Sajoh.
In the message, Fayemi extended warm greetings to Nigerians and described Christmas as a season that carries deep meaning beyond celebrations. According to him, Christmas represents hope, love, peace, and sacrifice, values that are important for national growth and unity.
He urged Nigerians to reflect on these values and apply them in their daily lives, especially at a time when many families are struggling with rising costs of living and other economic pressures.
“While we cannot deny the reality of the challenges before us, we must also not surrender our faith in the future of our country,” Fayemi said.
He noted that Nigeria has faced many difficult moments in the past but has always shown the strength to overcome them through unity and collective effort.
“Moments like Christmas remind us that even in times of uncertainty, hope can be renewed, and light can emerge from darkness,” he added.
Nigeria has been dealing with several challenges in recent years, including high inflation, unemployment, insecurity, and pressure on household incomes. Many Nigerians have found it difficult to cope with rising food prices, fuel costs, and other basic needs.
Against this background, Fayemi called for sober and responsible celebrations during the festive season. He urged Nigerians to be mindful of the current economic situation and to show care and support for the less privileged in society.
According to him, Christmas should not be about excessive spending or show of wealth, but about sharing, compassion, and concern for others.
The former governor also reflected on the deeper meaning of Christmas, describing it as a celebration rooted in love, humility, sacrifice, and compassion. He said these values align strongly with Nigeria’s cultural and communal traditions, where people are encouraged to care for one another.
“Christmas is not merely a season of merrymaking. It has profound spiritual significance, representing hope, the promise of salvation, and the ultimate sacrifice of love,” Fayemi said.
He encouraged Nigerians to use the season to reflect on how these values can help rebuild the country’s social fabric and strengthen relationships among citizens.
“As we celebrate, let us reflect on these values and how they can be applied to rebuild the social fabric of our dear nation,” he added.
Dr Fayemi served as Governor of Ekiti State from 2010 to 2014 and again from 2018 to 2022. During his time in office, he was known for policies focused on education, governance reforms, and public service delivery. He also served as Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, where he played a key role in promoting cooperation among state governors.
His Christmas message comes at a time when many political and religious leaders across the country are using the festive season to speak to Nigerians and offer words of encouragement.
Fayemi expressed confidence that Nigeria will overcome its current difficulties. He stressed that while the country may be going through a tough period, Nigerians should not lose hope.
“We may be in a difficult season, but we are not a hopeless people,” he said.
He called on Nigerians to enter the New Year with determination, resilience, and a shared commitment to national progress.
“As we transition into the New Year, let us carry with us a spirit of determination. I am confident that with collective effort and the enduring grace of God, Nigeria will emerge stronger and more prosperous,” Fayemi stated.
The former governor also highlighted the importance of unity and cooperation among Nigerians, regardless of ethnic, religious, or political differences. He noted that national progress can only be achieved when citizens work together and support one another.
Christmas is widely celebrated across Nigeria, especially in the southern parts of the country, with church services, family gatherings, and community events. However, the festive season also comes with concerns about security and economic hardship.
In recent years, Nigerians have been urged by leaders to celebrate modestly and avoid actions that could endanger lives or worsen financial difficulties. Fayemi’s call for sober celebration reflects these concerns.
Fayemi concluded his message by wishing Nigerians a peaceful Christmas and a New Year filled with security, productivity, and progress.
“I wish all Nigerians a peaceful Christmas and a productive, secure, and flourishing New Year,” he said.
The message was formally signed by Mallam Ahmad Sajoh, Head of the Fayemi Media Office, Abuja, and dated December 24, 2025.