Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has urged residents not to lose hope due to the challenges plaguing Lagos and the entire country.

Mr Sanwo-Olu, represented by his wife, Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, said this while giving his Christmas Message at the 2023 Lagos State Christmas Carol Of Nine Lessons Service at the Lagos House Ikeja.

“There is no doubt in the fact that as individuals and as a nation, the times are challenging. We must, however, not despair nor lose hope. Let us continue to trust in God and have faith in the good intentions of the people we have put in positions of authority,” stated the governor.

He acknowledged that the task “is challenging, but with our ceaseless prayers, I believe very strongly that the pains we are experiencing today will pale into insignificance when the fruits of our sacrifice begin to manifest in abundance.”

Mr Sanwo-Olu added, “I pray that the good Lord will preserve our lives in good health to witness, feel and enjoy the new glory of our state and our nation. As a government, we will continue to roll out welfare programmes aimed at cushioning the pains and difficulties being experienced in critical aspects of living.”

He urged residents to continue to be law-abiding as they celebrate the yuletide season and be their brothers’ and sisters’ keepers, especially at this time.

According to him, Christmas is a season of celebration, a time to share, love, strengthen the bond of humanity, reach out to people, especially the less privileged, and ensure that everyone feels a sense of belonging during this period.

“As we celebrate Jesus Christ through spreading his love and hope for humanity, we must continue to preach togetherness and spread the message of tolerance, peaceful coexistence and harmonious relationship among people of diverse beliefs and backgrounds.

“We must also follow his teachings and actions which exemplifies a righteous living. As we strive to follow in his footsteps, let us remember that through faith in him, we can experience true righteousness and find hope and fulfilment in our lives.

“We should embrace the grace and love that Jesus offers and allow his righteousness to guide us in all that we do. As we proceed into the festive period and the New Year, I urge all Lagosians to continue living in peace and righteousness, which, according to the scripture, exalts a nation,” the Lagos governor stressed.

(NAN)