The President-General of the Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Comrade Francis Bunu Abi, has congratulated Christians in Nigeria and across the world ahead of Thursday’s Christmas celebration.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by Comrade John Kennedy Ikemefuna, the Union’s Head of Media, Comrade Bunu urged Christians to remain steadfast in their faith despite challenges and persecutions.
“Christians must continue to show patience, long-suffering, and tolerance while remaining committed to the principles of the Kingdom of God, irrespective of the trials they may be passing through because of their faith,” he said.
The MWUN President-General reminded Christians of the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, noting that despite His good deeds, He was rejected and persecuted.
“Jesus Christ went about healing the sick and providing for the needy, yet the world rejected Him. He suffered persecution everywhere He went and was eventually crucified. This reminds us that Christianity demands endurance, forgiveness, and love, even in the face of adversity,” Bunu stated.
He called on Christians to emulate Christ’s lifestyle by forgiving one another and showing kindness at all times.
“Christianity is about behaving Christ-like. Without imbibing these values of love, forgiveness, and compassion in our daily lives, we fall short of the true principles of the faith,” he stressed.
Highlighting the significance of the Yuletide season, Bunu emphasised charity and care for the vulnerable.
“Jesus Christ is the sole reason for the season. We must therefore be committed to charity and extend love to the needy and vulnerable in our communities, irrespective of religion, tribe, ethnicity, or background,” he noted.
Comrade Bunu commended Christians for their resilience amid Nigeria’s security challenges, particularly in parts of northern Nigeria where killings and displacement have left many families homeless and children out of school.
“God is not unaware of what both Christians and Muslims are passing through in that part of the country. For us to live in a sane society, we must give love a chance and allow peaceful coexistence to thrive.”
The MWUN leader acknowledged the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration in addressing insecurity in the country.
“The present administration has taken steps to halt insecurity, and we are hopeful that, in no distant time, Nigeria will be peaceful again and reclaim her rightful place as the Giant of Africa,” he remarked.
He prayed for divine intervention in the nation’s affairs and wished Nigerians a joyful celebration.
“By the grace of God and the spirit of the season, the Almighty will answer our prayers. I wish all Nigerians at home and abroad a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year,” he added.
