The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, CFR, has called on Christians to use the Christmas season as an opportunity to extend love and support to the less privileged in society, in line with the teachings of Jesus Christ and the motto of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), *“Onye aghana nwanne ya”* (Be your brother’s keeper).
The governor made this appeal during the 2024 Festival of Christmas Carols and Nine Lessons organized by the All Saints Choir at St. Joseph’s Catholic Parish, UNIZIK Tempsite, Awka. Represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, Governor Soludo expressed gratitude to God for the gift of Christ and prayed for the celebration to inspire peace, unity, and love among Ndi Anambra.
“Christmas is a season of love, and Christians should celebrate in ways that reflect Christ’s ideals. It is an opportunity to share, care, and exhibit love for one another,” the governor stated after reading the first lesson.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the event and former Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Tourism, Chief Maja Umeh, alongside the Chairman of the Organizing Committee, Engr. Victor Meju, commended Governor Soludo for gracing the occasion. They urged Christians to emulate Christ’s life of humility, love, and devotion.
The event saw a high turnout of government officials and dignitaries, including the State Accountant General, Dr. Chukwudi Okoli; Majority Leader of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Ikenna Ofoedeme (represented by Mr. Ikedi Amechi); Anambra State Commissioner for Works, Engr. Ifeanyi Akoma (represented by Engr. Chidi Obiudu); Chief Medical Director of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Dr. Josephat Akabuike; Parish Choir Patron, Professor Emma Onwubuya; and other lovers of carols, classical music, and orchestra.
The festival celebrated the spirit of Christmas through music, prayers, and lessons, reinforcing the importance of faith, humility, and charity during the yuletide season.