Christmas celebrations were observed peacefully across Kano metropolis as Christian faithful trooped out in large numbers to mark the birth of Jesus Christ amid tight security arrangements.
From the early hours of the day, worshippers dressed in colourful and elegant attires were seen attending Christmas Masses and church services in various churches within the Kano metropolitan area and its environs.
The atmosphere was festive and orderly, with hymns, prayers and thanksgiving sessions dominating the celebrations.
During the church services, Reverend Fathers and Pastors delivered sermons centred on love, peace, kindness and tolerance, urging worshippers to extend goodwill to one another and promote peaceful coexistence regardless of religious or ethnic differences.
Clerics also encouraged the faithful to remain hopeful and supportive of one another in the face of prevailing economic challenges.
Security was visibly beefed up across the city as personnel of various security agencies were deployed to flashpoints, major roads, worship centres and other strategic locations to ensure the safety of lives and property throughout the celebrations.
The presence of security operatives contributed to the calm and hitch-free nature of the festivities.
Radio Nigeria correspondent who monitored the situation in Kano reports that the celebrations were colourful and well-attended, with no incidents recorded. Despite the current economic hardship in the country, many residents turned out to celebrate, share goodwill and express gratitude for peace and stability.
The peaceful conduct of the Christmas celebrations once again highlighted Kano’s long-standing tradition of religious tolerance and harmonious coexistence among its diverse communities.
ABDULLAHI JALALUDDEEN KANO
