The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Lagos State, Bishop Stephen Adegbite, has urged Nigerians to remain optimistic about the nation’s economic prospects.
Adegbite also urged Nigerians to embrace the spirit of love and sacrifice during this Christmas season.
In his Christmas goodwill message, released through his Special Adviser on Media, Rev. Oladapo Daramola on Tuesday, Adegbite emphasised the gradual but promising progress in Nigeria’s economic recovery under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
“The biggest concern for President Tinubu since assuming office has been to see Nigerians smile again. For too long, our hopes were dashed by successive governments.
“However, the President’s bold and sacrificial decisions to implement necessary but challenging economic reforms are showing positive indicators. While the tangible results may seem modest now, their full impact will be evident by 2025”, Adegbite said.
The bishop described these developments as a reason for cautious optimism, urging Nigerians to stay united and hopeful for a brighter future.
As Nigerians join the global Christian community in celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, Adegbite called on Christians to embody the essence of Christmas by showing love and giving sacrificially.
He said, “Sharing what we have, no matter how little, to bring joy into the lives and homes of others must be central to our celebrations.
“This is what God expects of us, and it reflects the essence of Christ’s coming to the world”.
Adegbite also highlighted the role of faith in fostering national growth, noting that Nigerian pilgrims to the Holy Land are interceding for the nation’s prosperity.
“The focus of those currently on pilgrimage, and those preparing to embark, is to pray fervently for the full manifestation and sustainability of the positive economic outlook and other facets of our national life”, he added.
Adegbite reassured Nigerians that their resilience and prayers are key to navigating challenging times. “Better days are truly ahead, and nothing can stop it”, he said.