The Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, His Grace, Most Rev. Dr. Alfred Adewale Martins, in a Solemn Christmas message, has expressed the need to show gratitude to God for the joy of celebration another Christmas despite many challenges that individuals and the country faces.
He declared that Nigeria is right in the middle of a tide of criminal violence, fear and criminal activities in the land.
In his 2025 Christmas message signed by the Director of Social Communications, Very Rev. Fr. Anthony Godonu, he lamented that the government has not done enough to provide the most fundamental assurance to its citizens, the Hope of a secure and dignified future.
Arch Martins said: “While we are not oblivious of the efforts being made by the government; we must also admit that the present reality of insecurity and pervasive fear have made it almost impossible for the average Nigerians to thrive or even dream with confidence.
We must continue to challenge the nation’s leadership to urgently bring and end the kidnappings and killings and so give assurance to communities of people who feel that they are being targeted and under siege by criminal elements in the country.
Our citizens do not need mere promised but decisive action that secures our farms, our roads, our schools, and our places of worship. After all said and done the primary duty of the state is to protect the life and properties of her citizens.
On another note, Archbishop Martins in the statement, urged Nigerians not to succumb to despair and despondency. The coming of Jesus Christ at Christmas is God’s definitive entry into the world of struggle and a potent intervention in human history so, our hope is not a distant reality bo a call to embody his presence have and now as we show love, empathy, and kindness towards one another, especially those who are most in need among us.
“We must all remember that the true essence of this season lies in a selflessness that fighters for justice, a humility that serves the broken among us, and a love that dismantle walls of division.”
The Archbishop’s message in the statement, concluded with a powerful vision of national renewal. “The national transformation that we long for will surely come” Archbishop Martins said: “If we all choose to obey the fundamental commandment of God; to love Him and our neighbour but also to uphold the rule of law.
We must learn to live at peace with one another irrespective of religion, tribe, or political affiliation; “Let this Christmas be a turning point,” he urged. “Let us put aside hatred, embrace our shared humanity, and work tirelessly to build a Nigeria where every person can live with dignity, free from fear, and oppression. Let us build bridges, not walls.
The light of Christ, shining in our hearts and actions, is the sure foundation for brighter future we all seek, he said.
