PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari‎ has urged Christians in Nigeria to rededicate them- selves to the virtues of peace, humility and service to others.

In his Christmas message, the President said if the ideals that Jesus Christ preached were upheld, Nigeria will be- come a more united, peaceful, secure and progressive nation.

He further urged Nigerians t‎o reach out in love and compassion to others in distress especially Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) who were displaced as a result of the activities of Boko Haram.

He said: “Let us reach out in love and compassion to fellow Nigerians who are in distress at this period of our nation’s history. I particularly urge you all to remember victims of terrorism in the country, especially IDPs. We must never again allow any group to hold the nation to ransom under whatever guise.”

President Buhari said the economic challenges the country was currently facing, should not dampen their expectations for a better Nigeria, assuring that his ad- ministration has taken steps t‎ o restore hope.

“Let us also not allow cur- rent socio-economic and security challenges to dampen our expectations for a better Nigeria. Our change slogan is not a campaign gimmick but a promise that must be kept. We are determined to bring about tangible changes in the lives of our people.

“In this regard, efforts will be intensified to recover stolen funds, block revenue leakages and enthrone due process, transparency and accountability. Public office is a public trust that must be held to the highest ethical standards.”

Also, Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Ayodele Fayose, urged Nigerians especially the leaders to be fair to all.

In his Christmas and Malud Nabiyy message, the governor said without being fair to all, Nigerian leaders would not be able to move the country forward.

He said social justice and equity were vital to maintain- ing orderliness in the society and to give everybody a sense of belonging.

Also, Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole thanked the people of the state for their support in the last seven years as he celebrates his last Christmas as governor of the state.

In his Christmas message, he said, though the year start- ed on a very difficult note, he was happy the year is finishing on a happy note.

He said: “There are economical challenges because our main source of national resources has dropped and one is not sure if it won’t drop further…”