By Fr. Michael Nsikak Umoh
In his Advent message, Bishop Isaac Bundepuun Dugu of the Catholic Diocese of Katsina-Ala urged Nigerians to anchor their lives on the hope in Christ that never disappoints, amidst the country’s challenging economic and security conditions.
Highlighting Nigeria’s struggles with poverty, insecurity, and systemic inequality, Bishop Dugu said, “The prevalent harsh economic conditions and particularly the worsening security conditions across the nation seem to have overwhelmed both the leaders and ordinary citizens leading to the present state of hopelessness.”
He condemned what he called the “genocidal” attacks by armed herdsmen in Benue State, citing 335 fatalities, 203 abductions, and displacement of approximately 12,472 residents in his diocese from May 2023 to September 2025.
“It is not herder farmer clashes… it is a calculated, well planned, full scare genocidal invasion and land grabbing campaign by herder terrorists and bandits,” he quoted His Royal Majesty, James Ortese Iorzua AYATSE.
Bishop Dugu emphasised that Advent is a time to prepare for Jesus’ birth, urging repentance, vigilance, and trust in God’s timing. He explained the Advent Wreath’s four candles – Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love – and the central Christ-Candle, symbolizing growing light and refuge in faith.
“The doctrine of the Incarnation assures us that God is not distant from our pain,” Bishop Dugu said, calling Christians to engage in holistic ministry, promote reconciliation, and advocate for justice.
He concluded with a blessing, wishing a blessed Christmas and prosperous New Year, saying, “May the Lord bless you and keep you… May the Lord turn his face towards you and give you peace” (Numbers 6:24-26).