The governor of Abia state, Alex Otti has urged residents to be mindful of their conduct during the festive period.

This was contained in his Christmas Day message to Abians on Thursday, titled “The Light of Christmas”.

He said, “We are especially encouraged to be conscious of our choices this season; our appetites and general scheme of activities should be measured. Avoid excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages, speeding, undue aggression, and any behaviour that smacks of recklessness or carelessness.

“Let whatever we do be moderated by the restraint of wisdom, the bounds of discipline, and the consciousness that there will be many more seasons like this in the years ahead.”

To those who experienced hardship in the outgoing year, the governor said;

“For those of us who could not meet our expectations or had it rough in the passing year, I enjoin you to avoid the temptation of giving in to despair, guided by the traditional wisdom that where there is life, hope is never absent.

“Next year is another opportunity to try again and, by leaning on the lessons of failure from the passing year, we shall have a better shot at success. I invite you to remain optimistic, enjoy your time in the company of loved ones, and look to the future with the conviction that you are bouncing back stronger.”

The governor further noted that the festive season comes with extensive social and economic demands, adding that his administration “has therefore taken extra care to ensure that you can function from any community in the state, however seemingly remote.”

“Our development efforts have also led to modest improvements in electricity and water supply, robust telephony and internet services, and other amenities that support modern living in some parts of the state, including functional primary healthcare facilities within reach in several communities to support the basic healthcare needs of our people,” he added.

He added;

“We have also made necessary arrangements to guarantee the security of lives and property in all parts of the state so you can travel to wherever you choose within the state, in the confidence that you are in Abia, one of the safest destinations to live and travel to.”

Acknowledging the economic hardship faced by many households, the governor said provisions had been made for family support packages to assist the most vulnerable, within the limits of available resources.

He also urged individuals, families, groups, and organisations to reach out to the less privileged and share what they could.

“This Christmas, let us bear the light of Christ’s love wherever we go, encouraging one another with our words, gifts, and presence. We may not be able to do much, but whatever little we can do with a sincere heart would be sufficient to bring joy and laughter to those in need.

“Remember in a special way our brothers and sisters who may have been incapacitated by ill-health and several others who, on account of the shipwrecks of life, are unable to independently cater for themselves. This, indeed, is the best time to be our brothers’ keepers,” he said.