Bishop Kukah urges Nigerians to embrace hope amid insecurity, calls for moral renewal this Christmas

By Johnson Arua

As Christians across Nigeria and the world celebrate Christmas, the Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Rev. Matthew Hassan Kukah, has urged Nigerians not to succumb to despair despite escalating insecurity, economic hardships, and social anxieties.

He described the season as a time of enduring joy, hope, and the presence of God, even in the midst of tribulation.

Bishop Kukah noted that Christmas comes at a moment when Nigeria appears trapped in a valley of violence and sorrow, with citizens daily confronting fear and uncertainty.

Yet, he emphasized, the birth of Christ remains a powerful reminder that “Emmanuel - God with us” abides, even in the darkest times.

Recalling the words of Prophet Isaiah, he said the light of Christ shines in darkness and cannot be overcome, urging Nigerians to deliberately choose hope over despair.

He also challenged political leaders at all levels to prioritize justice, equity, and compassion, arguing that while greed among elites persists, Nigeria possesses sufficient resources to care for its citizens.
Highlighting the enduring relevance of Christ’s birth, Bishop Kukah warned against growing weary in the face of prolonged violence, communal conflicts, and tragic losses that have torn families and communities apart.

Drawing parallels with the first Christmas, he noted that Jesus was born into poverty and violence, as King Herod’s atrocities targeted innocent children — a reminder that suffering has historically accompanied redemption.

He stressed that Christmas calls on Nigerians to renew their strength, refuse despair, and trust in God for restoration. The bishop lamented that violence continues to endanger children, citing abductions, displacement, abuse, and exploitation, which mirror the tragedies experienced by victims such as the Chibok and Dapchi schoolgirls.

Bishop Kukah emphasized that the fight against insecurity and moral decay is a battle for the nation’s soul. He urged citizens to reflect on societal failures, reject hatred and revenge, and embrace faith, prayer, and the pursuit of justice.

He identified toxic politics, greed, and selfishness as key drivers of violence and called for moral and educational reforms, particularly in northern Nigeria, where poverty, illiteracy, and disease exacerbate insecurity.

Noting that persecution is not new to Christianity, Bishop Kukah reminded believers that true victory comes through faith, patience, and moral courage, rather than force. He encouraged prayers for all victims of violence and called on Nigerians to honor them through efforts to build a society rooted in peace and justice.

Concluding his message, the bishop urged Christians to view Christmas not merely as a celebration, but as a call to embody Christ’s love, reconciliation, and service, especially to the vulnerable. He expressed gratitude for the safe return of abducted persons, commended those who prayed for their release, and wished Nigerians a Christmas marked by renewed hope, faith, and determination for national renewal.