Chief Supo Shonibare, the National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party, rejoices with Nigerians as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and usher in a New Year.

Many countries have had to deal with economic, political and security challenges occasioned by the ravaging novel Coronavirus pandemic. Our country has been unfortunate in having to contend with all these and an existing plethora of daunting challenges all in one fell swoop.

We join the rest of the world in celebrating with a renewed hope that the anti-COVID-19 vaccines will make it possible for the effects of the pandemic to abate. We must be grateful to the Almighty that the effects of the pandemic have – so far – not been as fatal in our country and Africa as it has been in most other parts of the world. Nonetheless, as the virus appears to be peaking again, we call on Nigerians to be circumspect as it is incumbent on each and every one of us to strictly adhere to the NCDC protocols.

As we offer our gratitude to the Almighty for bringing us thus far, we pray for the resolution of our security, economic and structural challenges.

This season also reminds us of the need to reflect on our path to nation building. The path taken thus far has brought about a society that has not been as caring and inclusive as it ought to have been, given the vast resources with which this nation is endowed.

As we celebrate Christmas and look forward with hope for a better future in the New Year, we pray that we may be favoured with the wisdom and spirit of the Almighty in bringing succour to the underprivileged – the majority of our people. We call for a concerted effort by all Nigerians to foster an inclusive, caring progressive nation, as we celebrate during this season.