The annual Calabar Carnival, a vibrant spectacle held every December in Cross River State, symbolizes Nigeria's grandest celebration of the Christmas season. Yet, beneath the colorful parades and festive trumpets, a deeper conversation is unfolding about the true essence of Christmas—the birth of Jesus Christ and the call for His reign in Nigerian society.
The Historical Roots and Universal Message of Christmas
The celebration of Christmas, marking the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, is a global phenomenon with roots tracing back to the legitimization of Christianity under Emperor Constantine. This event signifies God's definitive intervention in human history for the salvation of the world. The mystery of Christ's incarnation transformed cultures across continents, including those in Nigeria, bringing re-evaluation, reconciliation, and renewal.
Christianity, as embodied in the Christmas mystery, represents a sacred exchange. It is not an alien imposition but resonates with the divine seed (logos spermatikos) present in every culture. The Good News of Christ found a home among the diverse peoples of Nigeria—the Igbo, Yoruba, Tiv, Efik, Hausa, Nupe, and Birom—who welcomed it with joy and integrated it into their lives for decades.
A Contemporary Challenge: Faith at a Crossroads
In the 21st century, however, a significant shift is occurring. The practical reign of Christ is being de-emphasized, particularly among the youth. There is a growing indifference and even rebellion against organized Christianity. While previous generations left traditional shrines for the Church, a concerning trend now sees some returning to spiritual alternatives, often misunderstanding Christianity as a colonial relic.
This disorientation has fueled a crisis. The pursuit of material wealth has been idolized, leading to a dangerous get-rich-quick (ibute ike) culture that sometimes involves fetishistic practices. The self-giving sacrifice central to Christmas has, for some, degenerated into self-satisfaction, eclipsing the values of hard work and integrity.
Charting a Path Forward: A New Christmas Culture for Nigeria
The article calls for a profound renewal. Christmas must inspire Nigerians to become missionaries of God's reign through good works and words. This requires a state of emergency in youth apostolate to re-engage the younger generation with the authentic message of Christ.
A new culture of Christmas is envisioned—one that fosters a spirit of graciousness, justice, honesty, and peace. It starts with personal transformation, a de-egotisation of selves, allowing the baby Jesus to be born anew in individual hearts. This spiritual rebirth is seen as the foundation for a broader national rebirth, especially crucial during election seasons, demanding a commitment to fairness, competence, and compassion for the poor.
Ultimately, Christmas in Nigeria is an invitation to participate in the sacred exchange. It is a call to move beyond the annual carnival—though celebratory—and embrace the lasting reign of Christ in personal lives and national affairs, forging a future where the festival's external joy reflects an inner, transformative faith.
