Honourable Adedeji Adesoji Michael, popularly known as Iba Agba, the House of Representatives hopeful for Ogo-Oluwa/Surulere Federal Constituency under the All Progressives Congress (APC), has congratulated Christians across Nigeria and the world on the celebration of Christmas, urging them to embrace unity, compassion and a renewed spirit of hope.
In a Christmas message personally signed and made available to journalists, the Iwo-Ate-born politician described Christmas as “a divine assurance that even in the darkest moments, light will emerge, and hope will be restored.”
He noted that as Christians commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ, they must remember the core message of the season love, sacrifice, humility and redemption. According to him, “Christmas is God’s reminder that love remains the greatest force capable of transforming a nation.”
Quoting Matthew 1:23, he added: “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” meaning God with us, stressing that Nigerians should draw strength from the truth that God has not abandoned the nation despite its socio-economic challenges.
Iba Agba urged believers to uphold peace and harmony in their communities, particularly in a period where national unity remains vital. He noted that “the Prince of Peace calls us to build bridges, not walls.”
The House of Representatives hopeful praised Christian communities in Ogo-Oluwa and Surulere for their resilience, steadfast faith and commitment to peaceful coexistence. He said their perseverance reflects “the undying Nigerian spirit that continues to rise above hardship.”
He encouraged Christians to embrace the lessons of Christ’s birth, emphasizing the values of empathy, charity and forgiveness. “Christ came into the world through the humblest of circumstances to teach us that greatness is measured by service,” he said.
Iba Agba stressed that this season should also serve as a moment for Nigerians to reflect on their roles in promoting unity and nation-building. “Romans 12:18 admonishes us, ‘If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.’ This is a call for collective responsibility.”
In aligning his message with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Iba Agba said Christmas offers Nigerians an opportunity to rekindle belief in a better and more prosperous future. He noted that “the Renewed Hope vision seeks to rebuild trust, restore confidence and reposition Nigeria towards sustainable growth.”
According to him, “Just as Christmas brings the assurance of new beginnings, the Renewed Hope Agenda is a framework for national recovery, economic revitalization and inclusive development.”
He expressed confidence that ongoing reforms under the President will yield long-term dividends and urged Nigerians to remain optimistic, prayerful and patient. “Galatians 6:9 reminds us, ‘Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest.’ Our nation will reap its harvest.”
Iba Agba reiterated his commitment to providing effective, compassionate and community-centered representation when elected to the National Assembly. He affirmed that his legislative focus will align with national priorities of security, economic stability, youth empowerment and social welfare.
He assured constituents that he would remain a strong advocate for religious tolerance, peaceful coexistence and equitable development across Ogo-Oluwa and Surulere. “Leadership is only meaningful when it uplifts the people,” he said.
The APC chieftain also called on Nigerians to remember the poor, widows, orphans and vulnerable groups during the festive period, noting that “true celebration lies in sharing.” He referenced Proverbs 19:17: “Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord.”
He appealed to families to use the Christmas season to reconcile differences, strengthen family bonds and rebuild trust, adding that the home remains the cradle of moral education and national stability.
Reflecting on the challenges facing the nation, he encouraged Nigerians to trust in God’s promises. “Psalm 30:5 assures us that ‘weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.’ That morning will come for our nation,” he declared.
As the year draws to a close, Iba Agba urged citizens to look forward with renewed determination, hope and courage, believing that Nigeria’s best days lie ahead. “The star that guided the wise men still guides those who trust God,” he said.
He concluded by wishing Christians in Ogo-Oluwa, Surulere, Oyo State and across Nigeria a peaceful, joyful and grace-filled Christmas celebration. “May the love of Christ fill your homes, may His hope rest upon our nation, and may His peace reign forever,” he prayed.
