The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Anambra State Command, on Tuesday 17th of December 2023 held its maiden festival of songs of nine lessons and carol in a grand style to usher in Christmas at the State Command Headquarters Awka.
Comdt. Maku Olatunde, the State Commandant while declaring the event open said the joyful gathering provided officers and men a platform to show love to each other, relax and reflect on the reason for the celebration. He hinted that the essence of initiating the Carol of Nine lesson was to welcome the infant Jesus and to celebrate him as the special gift that God gave to the world.
“The Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols offers a special opportunity for Christian faithfuls to come together, sing traditional carols, and create a joyful atmosphere that marks the beginning of our celebrations honouring the birth of Jesus Christ.”
“Let us, therefore , reflect upon Jesus birth echo within us , let it guide our thoughts, words and actions ” he said.
Down the line, the first lesson was taken from Genesis 3:8-15 by the State Commandant, which was about the fall of man. This was followed by a congregational hymn on ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas ’. Then the second lesson was read from Genesis 22:15-18 on God’s promise to Abraham by DSC Nkechi Oguamanam.Officers drawn from departments and units read the remaining lessons that were each followed by songs to the delight of everyone present.
Delivering his sermon on the theme; the reason for the season, Superintendent of Corps, Tochukwu Umeohana, the Command Chaplain said the special gift( Jesus Christ) God gave to the world demonstrates the love of God to restore what the enemy had taken away from us after the fall of the first man.
“Today’s carol celebration is a truly special occasion, as we express our heartfelt gratitude to Almighty God for the birth of Jesus Christ, our eternal hope. This Yuletide season serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of peace, blessings, and generosity, as we share in the unconditional mercy and favor of God.” he concluded.
Deputy Commandant, Prominence Ukaobi, the command 2ic, in her goodwill message thanked the State Commandant for organizing such a great concert, which she described as a unique occasion to preach love and peaceful coexistence among personnel of the command.
The highlight of the event was fun filled carol presentations, excitements , colourful decorations and attires, refreshments and photographs.