By David Onwuchekwa
Nnewi North Local Government Area of Anambra State has held the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols for pupils and students as part of activities marking the 2025 Christmas celebration.
The event took place on Wednesday, December 17, at the Nnewi North Council Hall.
The Executive Chairman of the local government, Hon. Echezona Anazodo, was represented by the Deputy Mayor, Hon. Mrs. Ijeoma Okoli. Other council officials in attendance included Hon. Ibeneme Onyeka, Supervisor for Education; Hon. Caleb Okeke-Enyobi, Special Adviser on Education and Innovation; and the officiating priest, Rev. Martins Alagwu of the Anglican Communion.
Leading the pupils and students into the ceremony, Rev. Alagwu delivered a sermon centered on the significance of Christmas as the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, whom he described as God in human form. He said the birth of Christ remains a divine mystery beyond human understanding, noting that it occurred through the power of the Holy Spirit.
“God came in human form. His birth was by the power of the Holy Spirit. His birth brings redemption. We are alive today because God’s grace has been revealed through His birth,” he said.
Rev. Alagwu added that the birth of Christ represents the manifestation of God’s power, humility, and peaceful nature. He urged Christians to celebrate Christmas wisely, reminding them to acknowledge God as the reason for the season and to celebrate in moderation and reverence.
Speaking to journalists, Deputy Mayor Hon. Mrs. Ijeoma Okoli advised pupils and students to remain focused on God and to pray ceaselessly as a way of overcoming challenges during the festive period.
The Deputy Chief of Staff, Hon. Ejike Ndubuizu, said the programme was a practical demonstration of Christ’s teachings, explaining that the gathering was aimed at instilling Christian values in young people.
Also speaking, Hon. Caleb Okeke-Enyobi described the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols as the official kickoff of the Christmas celebration for pupils and students in the local government. He expressed optimism that participation would increase significantly in the coming year.
The event featured carol renditions, scripture readings, sermons, and prayers, all highlighting the hope, peace, and salvation made available to Christians through the birth of Jesus Christ.
