Obasanjo, Gowon, Ooni Grace State House as First Lady Hosts 2025 Christmas Carols

Nigeria’s former leaders, top government officials, traditional rulers and faith leaders gathered at the banquet hall on Friday night as First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, hosted the 2025 Service of Nine Lessons and Carols, where Nigerians were urged to embrace selfless service as a pathway to national renewal.

The call was made by the Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence Oliver Aba, during his exhortation at the third annual Christmas carol service organised by the First Lady. Speaking under the theme *“Emmanuel: God With Us,”* Aba challenged Nigerians across all divides to act collectively in rebuilding trust, unity and compassion amid economic and social pressures.

Among dignitaries in attendance were former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, alongside senior government officials, lawmakers and members of the diplomatic corps.

In his message, Aba described Emmanuel as God’s abiding presence with humanity, stressing that Nigeria’s current challenges require faith-driven unity and selfless leadership. He said Christ’s coming symbolises closeness, reassurance and hope, even in times of hardship.

“Jesus did not come to be far away from us. He came to be present and involved in our everyday affairs,” the cleric said, assuring Nigerians that divine presence remains constant through seasons of uncertainty, insecurity and economic strain.

The carol service, held within the State House precincts, blended worship with national reflection, as the 100-man mass choir of the Christian Association of Nigeria filled the venue with traditional and contemporary Christmas hymns. The solemn yet celebratory atmosphere was heightened by carefully selected scripture readings delivered by prominent national figures.

General Gowon read the First Lesson from the Book of Genesis, followed by Obasanjo, who read the Second Lesson in his first appearance at a State House function since the inauguration of President Bola Tinubu. Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu, Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, President of the Court of Appeal Justice Bolna’an Dongban-Mensem, Minister of Defence General Christopher Musa (retd), and Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun also took turns to read subsequent lessons.

The service reached its peak when the First Lady read the Ninth Lesson from the Gospel of John, affirming the message of the Word made flesh dwelling among humanity. The congregation rose in unison for the hymn *“O Come, All Ye Faithful,”* marking a moment of collective worship and reflection.

Aba, drawing parallels between the biblical message of peace and Nigeria’s present realities, urged citizens and leaders alike to recommit to love, sacrifice and service. Referencing inflation, insecurity and social division, he said lasting peace can only be achieved when Nigerians choose selflessness over personal gain.

“As a people and as a nation, when you are worried, God is with you as the Prince of Peace,” he said, adding that the season of Christmas should inspire renewed commitment to unity and compassion.

He further challenged Nigerians to reflect on where they stand in advancing the common good, stressing that national progress depends on collective responsibility and moral courage.

The evening concluded with cultural performances featuring traditional *Elu Agogo* rhythms and a joyful rendition of *“We Wish You a Merry Christmas,”* bringing the night to a festive close.

The annual carol service has become a signature platform of the First Lady’s Christmas engagement, blending faith, culture and national dialogue while reinforcing messages of hope, unity and service at the close of the year.