President Muhammadu Buhari has enjoined Nigerians both Christians and Muslims alike to show love to one another and exhibit attitudes that would promote peace in the country.

The President, who stated this yesterday in his message to mark the 2017 Christmas celebration added that the season was one in which the world commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, show love to one another and encourage unity by spending quality time with friends, families and the less-privileged.

While felicitating with all Nigerians, particularly Christian brothers and sisters, the President said the season also draws inspiration from the teachings of Jesus Christ.

He said: “It is also an occasion to draw inspiration from the exemplary lifestyle and teachings of Jesus Christ, who constantly stood for what is right, true and honest.

“The Holy Book describes Christmas as a festival of peace, joy, healing, hope and fulfillment. It kindles great expectations in the heart, irrespective of the challenges of the moment,” Buhari added.

The President called on Nigerians to pray for officers and men of the military who have committed their lives in battle front to ensure the unity and peace enjoyed in the country.

President Buhari noted that “as we celebrate this Yuletide season, let us devote some time to pray and appreciate the sacrifices of members of our armed services to keep our nation safe and secure.

“By the same token, and keeping with the spirit of the season, our gallant troops serving in the frontlines in the fight against insurgency; those wounded, lying in the hospital, as well as civilians who have suffered the brunt of evil and wicked elements these past years, deserve our fervent goodwill and sustained prayers.

“The personal fortitude of these individuals will continue to inspire us to victory as we turn the tide against the enemy and annihilate those who work against the unity of our nation.

“In this season of hope, let us remember to provide refuge to those who cannot enjoy Christmas at home with their families, or have been driven from their homes by insurgency or violence, particularly the Internally Displaced Persons.

“Lately, we have witnessed an upsurge in the activities of trans-border syndicates who lure our youths to modern slavery through irregular migration.

“While we have stepped up our efforts to halt this wickedness against the upwardly mobile generation, and have evacuated some of our compatriots stranded abroad, we appeal to them to shun the allure of embarking on such perilous journeys.

“I am deeply convinced that better days lie ahead for us as a nation as we make progress on all the major fronts where we have set our energies to surmount the challenges,” the President said.

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Buhari preaches love, peace at Christmas