The Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Hon. Alfred Emberga, has extended heartfelt Christmas greetings to the people of Benue State. In a statement made available to newsmen on Thursday by his Chief Press Secretary, Zape Upaa, Rt. Hon. Emberga described the season as a solemn reminder of God’s boundless love and a call to live out the values of sacrifice, kindness, love, and collective responsibility.
The statement noted that “Christmas goes beyond festivities and the exchange of gifts; it reflects the humility and self-giving nature of Jesus Christ, whose birth brought hope and redemption to humanity.”
Speaker Emberga called on Christians and all residents of the state to reflect deeply on the virtues of Christ and allow these values to guide their daily interactions with one another. He commended the perseverance and resilience of the people of Benue State in the face of economic pressures, security concerns, and other social challenges confronting communities across the state.
The statement assured that the State Assembly, under Hon. Emberga’s leadership, would continue to stand firmly with the people by prioritizing legislation that promotes peace, protects lives and property, enhances citizen welfare, stimulates job creation, and supports farmers, small-scale businesses, and entrepreneurship.
It added that the 10th Benue Assembly is determined to work harmoniously with the Executive arm of government to deliver impactful governance, stressing that meaningful progress can only be achieved when all arms of government, institutions, and citizens collaborate with a shared vision and sincerity of purpose.
Speaker Emberga urged Christians to allow the message of Christmas to heal old wounds, build bridges, and strengthen bonds of brotherhood among the diverse ethnic groups in Benue State. He emphasized forgiveness, tolerance, and dialogue as essential tools for building lasting peace and social cohesion.
The statement further encouraged people to celebrate modestly and responsibly, obey traffic and safety regulations, and show love to the needy, internally displaced persons, and those who may not have the means to celebrate.
“The true spirit of Christmas is found in lifting others, not in extravagance,” the statement partly read.
Speaker Emberga prayed that “the birth of Christ would bring renewed hope to families, farmers, traders, civil servants, traditional institutions, youths, and all segments of society, and that the New Year would open new doors of opportunity, development, and stability for Benue State.”
He wished all Benue residents a Merry Christmas filled with joy and a prosperous New Year.
