Christmas Carol
The Apapa Local Government, known as the Port City Council, on Friday 6th December hosted its much-anticipated 2024 Carol Service of Nine Psalms, a remarkable event filled with joy and reflection. Her Excellency Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, the First Lady of Lagos State, graced the occasion, expressing her profound gratitude for the opportunity to attend.
The festive spirit filled the air as pupils from Apapa Local Government joyfully welcomed Her Excellency Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, the First Lady of Lagos State, to the Apapa Carol Service 2024. The event, a highlight of the community’s annual celebrations, showcased the enthusiasm and talent of the local children.
As Dr. Sanwo-Olu arrived, the pupils, dressed in vibrant attire, greeted her with lively songs and cheerful chants, creating a heartwarming atmosphere. Their joy was palpable, reflecting the excitement of having such a distinguished guest in their midst.
In her address, Dr. Sanwo-Olu expressed her gratitude for the warm welcome, stating, “Seeing the smiles and excitement of these children fills my heart with joy says the first lady . This community embodies hope and the promise of a brighter future.” Dr Sanwo Olu encouraged the pupils to continue pursuing their dreams and to always strive for excellence.
The Carol Service
The Carol Service, under the leadership of Hon. Idowu Adejumoke Senbanjo, the Executive Chairman of Apapa Local Government, was marked by a series of performances by the pupils, who showcased their singing, dancing, and acting skills. The event not only celebrated the essence of Christmas but also highlighted the importance of community and togetherness.
The First Lady's visit served as a source of inspiration for the children, reminding them of the vital role they play in shaping the future of Apapa and Lagos State. The joyous welcome emphasized the strong bond between the leaders and the people, reinforcing a sense of unity and collective purpose.
The first lady make a promise of continued support from the Lagos State government for the educational advancement of the children, further brightening the spirits of the young attendees.
This year’s Carol Service not only celebrated the festive season but also reinforced the importance of community involvement and the support of local leaders in nurturing the next generation.
In her heartfelt remarks, Dr. Sanwo-Olu shared, "I appreciate God that I am able to grace this great occasion today. No one would have been able to share this amazing experience with me." Despite a demanding trip from Abuja that preceded the event, she expressed that the warmth and spirit at the service were uplifting, inspiring her to relay this experience to the governor. She expressed optimism about his future visit to Apapa, emphasizing the significance of the local government.
The event , was a resounding success and drew a significant crowd. The program featured HRM Oba Abdulfatai Oyeyinka Aremu Aromire Oyegbemi II, the Ojora of Ijora and Iganmu Kingdom represented by his wife, Olori Olufunmilayo Abosede Aromire, along with the ojora kingdom Council of white cap chiefs. In her speech, she remarked on the capabilities of women, affirming, "What a man can do, a woman can do it better." She also pledged her support for the visionary leadership of Hon. Senbanjo.
The event was filled with memorable activities, drawing a large crowd, including notable sought after national and elder states men , political figures from the APC, with the party's state chairman represented by his deputy .
The Senior citizens praised the council chairman for her impactful contributions, highlighting the diverse community's participation.
As part of the varieties of the day at the Apapa Carol 2024, the old students of Holy Child School made their presence felt as they gathered to celebrate their alma mater. Headed by the First Lady of Lagos State and the Chairman of Apapa Local Government, the alumni united in a heartfelt rendition of their school anthem, paying tribute to the institution that shaped their formative years.
The event, filled with joy and nostalgia, provided a platform for the former students to reflect on their shared experiences and the values instilled in them during their time at Holy Child School. Their harmonious singing of the school anthem resonated with pride, emphasizing the enduring bond among the alumni and their commitment to uplifting their school’s legacy.
This gathering not only celebrated the musical talents of the old students but also highlighted the importance of community and the support of local leaders in fostering a spirit of unity and remembrance. The Apapa Carol 2024 served as a powerful reminder of the impact of education and the lasting connections formed within the walls of Holy Child School.
The annual Apapa Carol was a vibrant celebration, highlighted by a special presentation from the beloved Apapa Senior Citizens. The elderly residents filled the atmosphere with joy as they joyfully sang melodious songs and danced with enthusiasm, showcasing their spirit and vitality.
Their performance not only entertained the audience but also bridged generations, reminding everyone of the importance of community and togetherness.
The event served as a beautiful reminder that age is just a number, and the joy of music and dance knows no bounds. The Apapa Carol was a resounding success, thanks in large part to the moving contributions of the Apapa Senior Citizens, who left a lasting impression on everyone present.
The market women of Apapa also gathered to express their heartfelt gratitude to God for the exemplary leadership of their chairman, Hon. Idowu Adejumoke Senbanjo impacts.
Reverend Akano, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Apapa chapter , urged attendees to use the occasion to devise positive plans for 2025. He commended the current administration for its significant advancements over past governments, encouraging residents to support Hon. Senbanjo's second-term ambitions.
In her closing remarks, Hon. Adejumoke Idowu Senbanjo affirmed her commitment to delivering even greater achievements in her next term as she shared her token gifts to everyone present .
The CAN chairman Apapa chapter, promised its backing for continuity, while also seeking prayers for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his first lady to ensure their administration is smooth and stress-free.
During the Apapa Carol 2024, the Council Manager of Apapa Local Government, accompanied by the management team, council Treasurer, former council manager, secretary to the local government, head of departments, head of units, , the council legislators, supervisors and senior special assistants , Apapa Local Government Christian fellowship, and NULGE took the opportunity to express their gratitude to the Council Chairman. This gesture was aimed at recognizing her exemplary leadership and the positive impact she has made within the Council and among the staff.
The event served as a platform to highlight the Chairman's contributions, showcasing her commitment to fostering a supportive and efficient working environment. The management team’s appreciation reflects the unity and dedication to promoting the Council's vision under her guidance.
The heartfelt acknowledgment emphasized the importance of strong leadership in driving progress and enhancing the overall morale of the staff. The event concluded on a celebratory note, reaffirming the Council’s commitment to teamwork and excellence.
The 2024 Carol Service was not only a spiritual gathering but also a celebration of community, leadership, and shared vision for a prosperous future in Apapa. Olaitan Royal, Chief Editor of Royal Circle Connect and the Apapa Local Government freelance media , reported on the inspiring event, encapsulating the essence of unity and hope for the coming year.
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"Like the angels sang that holy night, may your home be filled with love, peace, and delight."
