The minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mallam Muhammad Musa Bello, has congratulated Abuja residents, particularly the Christian faithful on the spiritual occasion of Christmas, saying that the celebration calls for sober reflection, and stressing the need to emulate the exemplary life of Jesus Christ.

The minister gave the charge yesterday in an address to mark this year’s Christmas celebration.

While urging the Christians to be their brothers’ keepers as the nation celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, he appealed to all residents of the FCT to continue to be good neighbours to their fellow residents, irrespective of religious beliefs.

The minister further urged the residents to spread the gospel of love, tolerance and peaceful coexistence, adding that peace remains the cornerstone of any meaningful development.

In the same vein, the minister congratulated Muslim faithful across the country on the occasion of this year’s Maulud celebration and urged them to pray for peace and continued unity of Nigeria.

He admonished Muslims to reflect on the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), which are primarily premised on selflessness, sacrifice, patience, modesty and piety.