The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba (Dr) Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja (Arusa I), has congratulated Christians across the world on the celebration of the 2025 Christmas, urging Nigerians to embrace peace, unity and prayers amid the nation’s prevailing challenges.
The monarch’s message was contained in a press statement issued and signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Chief Ayoade Solomon Olugbemiga, and made available to journalists on Tuesday in Ibadan.
In the statement, the Olubadan expressed profound gratitude to God for sparing his life to ascend the throne as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, describing the Christmas season as a period of thanksgiving, reflection and renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence.
“I join Christians globally to celebrate this year’s Christmas to show my appreciation to God for sparing my life to be enthroned as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, as well as endowing me with wisdom, sound health and making my reign peaceful,” the monarch said.
Oba Ladoja called on Christians to emulate the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, whom he described as the Prince of Peace, stressing that love, tolerance and compassion remain essential values for national unity.
“I charge Christians to emulate Jesus Christ, who taught us to love one another irrespective of differences in tribe, religion, colour and language, as He was born to save the entire mankind,” the Olubadan admonished.
The paramount ruler also reflected on Nigeria’s current socio-economic and security challenges, noting that the Christmas season should inspire collective prayers for healing and progress. According to him, issues such as insecurity, economic hardship, unemployment, disunity and inadequate infrastructure require not only policy responses but also spiritual intervention.
“Nigeria as a nation is facing several challenges ranging from insecurity, economic hardship, disunity, unemployment to insufficient infrastructural amenities. These should compel us to engage in fervent prayers to heal our land and our leaders,” he said.
The Olubadan further called on security agencies to redouble their efforts in ensuring the safety of lives and property, particularly during the yuletide period when increased movement and festivities often heighten security concerns.
He urged law enforcement and other security operatives to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding communities across Ibadanland and the country at large, noting that peace and security are essential for meaningful celebration.
In addition, the first-class traditional ruler advised Nigerians to celebrate Christmas with moderation and a strong sense of responsibility, cautioning against excesses that could undermine the spirit of the season.
The monarch encouraged families and communities to focus on sharing, kindness and mutual respect, while also reminding celebrants to eat and drink responsibly throughout the festivities.
Oba Ladoja reiterated his commitment to a peaceful and inclusive reign, stressing that traditional institutions have a role to play in promoting harmony, moral values and social stability.
He wished Christians a joyful Christmas celebration and praying for peace, prosperity and unity in Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole.
The statement was signed by Chief Ayoade Solomon Olugbemiga, Chief Press Secretary to the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
