Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has called on Nigerians to renew their commitment to peace, tolerance and mutual respect as Christians celebrate Christmas.

The governor made the call on Sunday at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia, during the Abia Festival of Carols 2025 organised by the state government with the theme “A Christmas to Remember.” He was represented by his deputy, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu.

Otti described Christmas as a season that embodies love, hope, sacrifice and goodwill, urging citizens to extend compassion to one another and remember the less privileged.

“This is a special season that reminds us of the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. As we celebrate, let us show love, promote peace and tolerance, and carry the message of Christmas from here to our homes, workplaces and communities,” he said.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to people-centred governance, inclusive development and ensuring that the dividends of democracy reach all parts of the state.

“Together, with faith and unity, we will continue to build an Abia State that works for everyone,” Otti added, while wishing Abians a joyful Christmas and a peaceful, prosperous New Year.

Also speaking, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Kenneth Kalu, described Christmas as a season of joy, hope and peace, noting that the celebration reflects Abia’s ongoing renewal and progress.

According to him, the achievements recorded in the past 30 months of the current administration demonstrate that hope can be transformative, even in the face of national and global challenges.
In his vote of thanks, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Mr. Matthew Ekwuruibe, thanked God for uniting Abians once again and expressed appreciation to Governor Otti for supporting the festival.

The event featured performances by church choirs, the Abia Brass Band and other groups. Nollywood actors and actresses from the state presented special gifts to the governor in recognition of his contributions.

Dignitaries at the event included the governor’s wife, Mrs. Chidinma Otti; the deputy governor’s wife, Mrs. Adaeze Emetu; Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa; members of the State Executive Council, clergy and other stakeholders.