When delivering his Christmas message during the 2023 Lagos State Christmas Carol of Nine Lessons Service at the Lagos House Ikeja, Sanwo-Olu—represented by his wife, Mrs. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu—said this.
The book of Hebrews, chapter 7, verse 2, served as the inspiration for the 2023 Carol Service's theme, "King of righteousness."
He exhorted all citizens, Christians included, to maintain their faith in God and the government's good intentions.
"It is undeniable that these are difficult times for both individuals and the country. But we must not give up or lose hope.
"Let us keep believing in God and the goodness of the people we have placed in positions of leadership.
"The task is difficult, but with our unwavering prayers, I firmly believe that the suffering we are going through today will be insignificant when the abundant fruits of our sacrifice start to appear."
"I ask the good Lord to keep us well so we might see, experience, and savor the renewed splendor of our state and country.
"As a government, we will persist in implementing welfare initiatives designed to mitigate the suffering and challenges encountered in essential facets of existence," he declared.
He asked the locals to uphold the law over the holiday season and to always remember to look out for their brothers and sisters.
He believes that Christmas is a time for joy, giving, and strengthening the bonds that bind people together. It's also a time to reach out to those in need and make sure that everyone has a feeling of community during this time.
"We must keep preaching unity and spreading the message of tolerance, peaceful cohabitation, and harmonious relationships among people of varied beliefs and backgrounds as we commemorate Jesus Christ by sharing His love and hope for humanity.
We also need to imitate His deeds and teachings, as they perfectly model a life of righteousness. Let us keep in mind that by placing our confidence in Him, we can experience true righteousness and find fulfillment and hope in our lives as we work to emulate Him.
We ought to accept the compassion and grace that Jesus extends to us and let His holiness serve as our example in everything we do.
"As we move forward into the holiday season and the New Year, I implore all Lagosians to carry on living in peace and righteousness, which the Bible says exalts a nation," he uttered.
The Commissioner of Home Affairs, Mr. Olanrewaju Layode, stated in his welcoming speech that as the year drew to a close, the people of Lagos State should reflect on all the things they have done and give thanks to God for His supernatural involvement in everything.
Layode added that despite the difficulties, the state and its citizens were still standing strong due of God's grace; as such, they should recognize their blessings and express gratitude to God for his unwavering faithfulness.
He remarked that the season taught everyone to reach out with hands of brotherhood and charity towards mankind, and that it is necessary to promote love not just at Yuletide but all year round.
As a result, I exhort everyone to imitate Jesus Christ's qualities, which are exemplified by His humility and selflessness.
"As we gear up for the Christmas and New Year's festivities, I want to humbly ask that we all remember to stay safe and act as our brothers' keepers by showing compassion and generosity to those who are less fortunate, all the while continuing to pray for and support our beloved Nigeria."