Prayers, praise, reflection as Lagos marks 25 years of Christmas carol tradition
By Adeola Ogunrinde
The Lagos State Government on Thursday hosted the 2025 Christmas Carol of Nine Lessons with the theme “The Reign of the Messiah,” drawn from Isaiah Chapter 9, verse 3. The event, organised by the First Family in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs, marked the 25th edition of the annual programme and was held at the Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu was briefly present at the event before being represented by his wife, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, who read the Ninth Lesson from the Gospel of John, Chapter 1, verses 1 to 14.
On behalf of the Governor’s wife, the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, read the Eighth Lesson on the visit of the Wise Men from the Book of Matthew, Chapter 2, verses 1 to 11.
In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Mr. Ibrahim Layode, commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for sustaining the Christmas Carol tradition since assuming office. He noted that the initiative has continued to promote religious peace, tolerance and harmony among residents of the state, while urging Lagosians to use the yuletide season to rest and reflect after a demanding year.
Clerics at the event offered prayers and benedictions for peace and stability in Lagos State and the country at large. The celebration was enlivened by gospel artistes and church choirs, who thrilled the audience with soul-lifting songs and performances.
The event was also attended by the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, who read the Fourth Lesson from the Book of Micah, Chapter 5, verses 2 to 4. Other dignitaries present included the wife of the Deputy Governor, members of the State Executive Council, and top government officials.
