Aso Rock hosts 2024 nine lessons and carols, emphasizes brotherly love

By Kunle Sanni

The State House has hosted the annual Nine Lessons and Carols Service, themed “Immanuel, Our Restorer of Hope,” has been held at the presidential villa, Conference Centre in Abuja.

The event themed “Immanuel, Our Restorer of Hope,” brought together prominent Nigerians and leaders of faith, highlighting the message of love, unity, and hope, underscoring the spiritual essence of the Christmas season.

Scripture readings were delivered by notable figures, including former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon (retd), Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu, Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike, President of the Court of Appeal Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, and EFCC Chairman Olanipekun Olukoyede. Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, took the eighth lesson.

In his sermon at the service, Vice President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Rev. Baba Payan, called on Christians to embody the spirit of love that defines the season.

Rev Payan anchored his message in key biblical passages, including Hebrews 13:1-2, which urges believers to let brotherly love continue and to entertain strangers, as some have unknowingly hosted angels. He also referenced 1 John 4:7-9, declaring that “God is love,” and John 3:16, which articulates the core of Christian belief: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have everlasting life.”


The cleric highlighted that Christmas is fundamentally about love.

“This season invites us to reflect on how we can show love to those around us”.

Rev Payan stated that love transcends boundaries of ethnicity, religion, and social status.

“Your neighbor is anyone who requires your help”


He urged congregants to reach out to those less fortunate during this festive season.

“Let us show love to anyone in need of our help.”


Rev Payan further elaborated on the significance of love in spiritual life by quoting 1 Corinthians 13:1, which states that without love, even the most eloquent speech is meaningless.

“We live in an age where many seek miracles, signs and wonders. While we celebrate these miracles, sings and wonders, the greatest proof of our spirituality remains our capacity for love.”

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