From Ijeoma John, Nnewi
Nnewi North Local Government Area of Anambra State has held the 2025 Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols for Pupils and Students to heraid the commemoration of the birth of Jesus Christ, celebrated as Christmas.
Hon. Echezona Anazodo, Mayor Nnewi North represented by the Deputy Mayor Hon. Ijeoma Okoli, Hon. Ibeneme Onyeka, supervisor for Education, Hon. Caleb Okeke-Enyobi, Special Adviser on Education and Innovation with the officiating Priest, Rev. Martins Alagwu, Anglican Priest led the pupils and students to the venue of the ceremony at the Council Hall on Wednesday, December 17.
Rev. Martins Alagwu in his sermon during the festival of nine lessons and carols said Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, who is God in human form.
He noted that a woman given birth to Jesus Christ remained a mystery, adding that his birth was beyond human understanding.
“God came in human form.His birth was by the power of the Holy Spirit.His birth brings redemption We are alive because God’s grace has been shown through his birth” he disclosed.
He further revealed that Christ’s birth shows the manifestation of God’s power, his humility and his peaceful nature.
He charged Christians to be wise while celebrating Christmas, acknowledge that God is the reason for the season, and celebrate it reasonably not foolishly.
Deputy Mayor, Hon. Mrs Ijeoma Okoli while addressing Journalists adviced pupils and students to focus on God Almighty, pray ceaselessly to conquer any challenge they may face in this festive period.
The Deputy Chief of Staff, Hon.Ejike Ndubuizu while speaking to Journalists said what they did today was a demonstration of the teachings of Christ, adding that they used the opportunity to gather pupils and students to inculcate values of Christ.
On the same note, Hon. Caleb Okeke-Enyobi stated that they celebrated Christmas Carols and nine lessons for pupils and students to kick off Christmas.
He reaffirmed that by next year there would be greater participation.
Carols, sermon and prayers offered were a reminder of the hope and salvation we got through Christ birth.