Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State says Christmas signifies peace and as such, Nigerians and Deltans in particular should resolve to live in peace.

In a goodwill message released yesterday in Asaba, the state capital, Dr. Uduaghan enjoined all to embrace the virtues of peace and love that the Christmas epitomised.

“Christmas, signifies hope and salvation brought to the world in need of redemption. The world would be a better place if the values and virtues reflected by the holy birth of Christ, especially love for one another were practiced faithfully,” he stated.

The governor urged Deltans to support and cooperate with the government to enable those in authority and the governed contribute to the development of the state.

“This administration remains committed to finishing strong by pursuing more people-oriented policies and programmes that have direct bearing on their lives. We pray and hope with faith that the coming year would usher in more peace, progress, prosperity and fulfillment for all across the state,” he said.

Dr. Uduaghan noted that 2013 has been a challenging year for Nigeria, particularly in the area of security. He called on all Nigerians to emulate the life of Jesus Christ by imbibing the qualities of peace, love and unity, including peaceful co-existence as a people.

In a related development, Governor Uduaghan has urged Deltans to embrace peace as a way of life as that was the only way growth and development can be guaranteed. He made the appeal Monday night in Warri at an inter-denominational festival of nine lessons and carols organised by the member representing Warri Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Daniel Reyenieju and family. The governor said when people live in peace, a lot of developmental programmes take place.

“The birth of Jesus Christ signifies peace, this is the season of peace and in the next few days, we will enter another year, we must decide that we must live in peace … Together we get more, divided we shall lose a lot,” he stated, adding: “I want to admonish us that in 2014, we must use our resources, our brain positively to move our area forward.”

Dr. Uduaghan said that President Goodluck Jonathan deserves commendation for approving the establishment of the largest gas facility in Africa in Delta State and urged Deltans to ensure that the project is successful.

He advised Christians to celebrate in moderation and to devout much time to prayers for the peace and unity of Delta State and the country at large.

The governor commended Hon. Reyenieju for organising the nine lessons and carols, adding that Christmas should go beyond giving of gifts and people should love themselves and engage in peaceful activities.

On his part, Hon. Reyenieju thanked those who came for the programme and stated that this year’s event was the first in the series to be held in appreciating God for the gift of Jesus Christ.

•Photo (R-L) shows Governor Uduaghan, Hon. Daniel Reyenieju, member, representing Warri Federal Constituency, and his Isoko Federal Constituency counterpart, Hon. Leo Ogor during a 9 Lessons and Carol organized by Hon Reyenieju and family . . . Monday in Warri.