The former lawmaker, who represented Oyo South Senatorial District in the ninth Senate, stated this in a congratulatory message to Christian faithful on the occasion of Christmas celebration.
He said, though love and goodwill should be an everyday thing, the people should make more conscious efforts to share the two virtues among themselves, especially at Christmas.
Senator Balogun said, by so doing, Nigerians, especially Christian faithful would be fulfilling the essence of the yuletide, Jesus Christ who is the reason for the season.
“My entire family and I are very glad to witness another Christmas celebration. We are happy to share this glorious festive period with our people in Oyo South Senatorial District in particular and Oyo State in general.
“We are happy to extend our heartfelt felicitations to Christians across the country, in the spirit of love, joy and goodwill that accompany the celebration of Christmas.
“It is, indeed a moment that calls for celebration. Christmas is also a time for us to remind ourselves on the need to continually seek for peace and unity among ourselves, especially in the face of the prevailing national challenges.
“This is why it is essential that we must celebrate this yuletide sharing messages of love, joy and goodwill among ourselves and to our fellow humans and the society.
“Beyond the festivities, we must continually strive to live the reason for the season. Jesus Christ, whose birthday we are celebrating, epitomises love, joy and goodwill.
“He was born to give us hope and tranquility in this troubled world. He was sent to give us a message of love and goodwill. He came so that we can have a reason to live, and in peace,” he said.
Senator Balogun further said Christmas provided the opportunity for all Nigerians, irrespective of religious affiliations, to come together and foster a sense of togetherness, compassion and mutual understanding.
“We, as a people, are going through some hard times. We should use the opportunity of Christmas celebration to ease the strains and foster a common purpose in our collective interest.
“As we celebrate, we should remember the have-nots and reach out to them at this special season of generosity, kindness and harmony.
“This is because the essence of Christmas is peace, love and unity among all people, irrespective of their religion and ethnic biases.
“It is on this note that my wife, Mrs Gbonjubola Kola-Balogun and I joined other Nigerians to celebrate this great occasion with our fellow humans.
“As we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, we should remember what he came and lived for. We should hold dear the values of love, compassion, selflessness and empathy.
“We should know what Christmas represent- a time to share love and spread joy among our fellow humans and strengthen the virtues and values that hold us together as a people and as a country.
“We wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year in advance. We shall live to witness many more in Jesus name,” he added.
