The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Revd. (Dr.) Matthew Hassan Kukah, has described the persistent insecurity in Nigeria, driven by banditry and other criminal activities, as a collective failure of Nigerian society.
In his Christmas message titled “Joy and Hope in a Time of Tribulation,” Kukah said that while Christmas is a season of great joy for the world, Nigeria remains trapped in a “valley of violence and sorrow,” with citizens continually exposed to fear, grief and uncertainty.
The former Secretary-General of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria lamented that insecurity has pushed many Nigerians toward sorrow and despair, but reminded Christians that the birth of Christ brings hope. “The good news is that by the birth of Christ, despite it all, Emmanuel, God is among us,” he said.
Citing the Prophet Isaiah, Kukah urged Nigerians to embrace the light that overcomes darkness, stressing that leaders must strengthen their resolve to reduce the suffering of the people. He noted that although resources may not satisfy the greed of the elite, there is enough to cater for the needs of the masses if managed properly.
Reflecting on the violent realities surrounding the birth of Jesus, Kukah said Christians should not be discouraged by current challenges. He reminded Nigerians that Christmas is a call to renew strength and faith, even in the face of persistent violence and loss of lives.
The bishop also drew attention to the plight of children affected by violence in Nigeria and other parts of the world, referencing the abductions of schoolchildren such as the Chibok and Dapchi girls. He described the situation as a tragic consequence of state negligence, warning that thousands of Nigerian children remain vulnerable to abuse, exploitation and insecurity.
According to Kukah, the perpetrators of violence are products of society’s failures, including poor governance, miseducation, poverty and moral decay. He argued that northern Nigeria has become the epicentre of violence due to high levels of illiteracy, poverty and disease, adding that the nation must “either renovate, educate, or perish.”
While acknowledging that Christians have historically faced persecution, Kukah stressed that violence cannot be defeated with violence. He urged believers to rely on faith, prayer and steadfast commitment to the Gospel, rather than retaliation.
Kukah called on Nigerians to unite against evil, saying the fight against insecurity is a battle for the nation’s soul that cannot be outsourced. He appealed for renewed commitment to peace, justice and reconciliation, noting that Nigerians have shared grief and loss together and must also share hope.
He concluded by commending the federal government for the safe return of recently abducted children, while describing the incident as “one ordeal too many.” Despite the challenges, Kukah urged Nigerians not to deny themselves the joy of Christmas, calling on all to embrace peace and goodwill.
“A happy Christmas to you all,” he said.
