Mr Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, member, Osun House of Assembly (APC-Obokun), on Monday, urged the people of Osun and Nigerians at large, to embrace unity and ideals that promote national development.
Oyintiloye gave the charge in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), in Osogbo.
He said that more than ever before, Nigerians needed to pursue unity, exhibit selflessness and exercise love as epitomised by Christmas, for the stability of the country.
The lawmaker also urged Christians to extend hands of fellowship to Nigerians who were passing through difficult challenges, as such show of love would bring smiles and rekindle hope in their lives.
Oyintiloye, who is House Committee Chairman on Information and Strategy, urged Nigerians to use the celebration of Christmas to pray for peaceful conduct of 2019 general elections and prosperity in the country.
He said it is only when the country is peaceful that people can remember to celebrate.
The 2019 general elections, according to him, are crucial to the unity and progress of the country.
Oyintiloye, who noted that there was no doubt that Nigeria as a nation was passing through different challenges, emphasised the need to keep hope alive, as the future of the country has better prospects for all.
He urged Nigerians to remember to pray for President Muhammadu Buhari and other political leaders for divine wisdom and guidance to steer the ship of the country in the right direction.
The lawmaker also urged Nigerians to remember the gallant Nigerian soldiers who risked their lives, by praying for them and their families during this season.
While thanking the people of his constituency for the trust reposed in him to represent them at the state assembly, Oyintiloye said he counted much on their support for his re-election in 2019.
“The season of Christmas is one that exemplifies the virtues of love, abundant hope, joy, salvation, self sacrifice and peaceful co-existence; we must therefore embrace these virtues.
“In this period, we must be ready and willing to show love to one another, seek genuine salvation, pray for the country and remember those who are in need, especially the Internally Displaced People.
“We should also remember to use this occasion to pray for the peaceful conduct of 2019 general elections, which will be a milestone in democratic history of the country.
“I hereby wish all Nigerians and people of my constituency merry Christmas and Happy New Year in advance.”