The Chairman of Akamkpa Local Government Council, Hon. (Ophot) Felix Akposi, KSJI, has joined millions of Christians worldwide in celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, describing the season as a divine reminder of God’s unfailing promise to redeem humanity through the gift of His Son. In his Christmas message, the chairman expressed profound gratitude to God for the salvific grace symbolised in the nativity, which continues to inspire hope, love, and joy across the globe.
“As children of God,” he stated, “we are called to share in the joy of Christmas by extending the spirit of love and celebration to others in our own little capacity. Humanity is one, irrespective of race, tribe, or religion. Let this love radiate to everyone, fostering unity and brotherhood as exemplified by Christ.”
On behalf of the good people of Akamkpa and his family, Hon. Akposi extended warm Christmas wishes to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the amiable Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu and his deputy, HE, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, alongside the beloved wife of the governor, Her Excellency, Rev. (Mrs.) Eyoanwan Otu. He commended their leadership for cushioning the effects of the current economic realities and ensuring a sweet Christmas for Nigerians despite challenging times.
“This truly is a season of sweetness for our people. Your Excellencies, your unwavering commitment to alleviating economic hardships has restored hope and joy to our communities,” Hon. Akposi noted. “The people of Akamkpa remain grateful and steadfast in their resolve to align with the ‘People First’ mantra, which underscores governance centred on the well-being of citizens.”
He lauded Governor Otu and his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, for their visionary leadership, particularly as reflected in the theme of this year’s Calabar Carnival, ‘Our Shared Prosperity.’ The chairman noted that the theme resonates deeply with the aspiration for collective growth and even development, reiterating Akamkpa’s commitment to the ideals of inclusion, equity, and progress.
To the people of Akamkpa and all residents, Hon. Akposi reaffirmed his dedication to inclusive leadership, promising to touch every sector of the local economy to facilitate the ease of doing business and improve livelihoods. However, he emphasised that security remains a top priority for his administration, warning that mischief-makers will find no safe haven in Akamkpa.
“This season calls us to renew our commitment to being our brother’s keeper,” he said. “Just as God has remembered us with His abundant provision, protection, and guidance, we too must reflect this divine love by supporting and uplifting one another.”
He encouraged residents to see Christmas as more than a festive occasion but as a time to reflect on the values of peace, charity, and humility, which lie at the heart of Christ’s mission on earth. He added that unity and love within the community will be critical to achieving the shared prosperity envisioned by the state and local governments.
Hon. Akposi also used the occasion to call for communal support in driving his administration’s development agenda. He highlighted the importance of collaboration between the government and the people, stating that sustainable progress requires collective effort, sacrifice, and commitment to shared goals.
As the Yuletide season unfolds, the Chairman wished the people of Akamkpa and all Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year, urging everyone to celebrate responsibly and look forward to a brighter, more prosperous 2025.
