Christmas Message: Catholic Bishops Say God’s Presence Gives Nigeria Hope Amid Hardship
At a time when many Nigerians are weighed down by insecurity, economic hardship and uncertainty, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has reminded the nation that Christmas carries a message stronger than fear: God is still with us.
In a Christmas message titled “God Is With Us: A Message of Hope for Nigerians at Christmas”, the President of the CBCN, Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, said the birth of Jesus Christ is proof that suffering does not mean abandonment and that evil does not have the final word.
The Archbishop of Owerri acknowledged the deep wounds facing the country, including persistent violence, displacement and the painful abduction of students and staff of St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, Niger State, alongside other victims of insecurity nationwide. He stressed that every life taken or threatened is of immeasurable worth, bearing the image of God.
According to him, Christmas calls Nigerians to see beyond present difficulties and embrace hope, unity and shared responsibility.
While condemning injustice and corruption, the bishops affirmed that Nigeria’s challenges are not irreversible, insisting that peace, justice and national renewal remain possible.
The CBCN also noted encouraging signs across the country, praising ordinary Nigerians who continue to choose integrity, courage and service despite harsh conditions.
These acts, the bishops said, demonstrate that the moral heart of the nation remains alive.
As Christians mark Christmas, Archbishop Ugorji urged Nigerians to recommit themselves to justice, reconciliation and peace, praying that the light of Emmanuel will heal the nation’s wounds and open new horizons of hope.
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