The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Environment and Ecology, Abubakar Bukola Saraki, yesterday said it is imperative for Nigeria to remain indivisible.

In a statement in Abuja on yesterday's Christmas celebration, the senator urged Nigerians to remain strong and optimistic, despite the plethora of challenges confronting the nation.

He advised Nigerians to emulate Jesus Christ by sharing with their neighbours at Christmas.

Saraki said: "I rejoice with our Christian brothers and sisters in Nigeria and all over the world on this happy occasion of Christmas.

"As we celebrate, it is imperative to reflect on the events that have defined us as people as it relates with the teachings of Christ – the reason for the season.

"The spirit of the season must keep our optimism unshaken, we must remain one indivisible entity in spite of daunting challenges in Nigeria's political and economic spheres.

"I urge every Nigerian to remain very strong and optimistic, believing our bright days are here.

"In this season of service and love, it is important to note that our love for Nigeria can only be experienced through love and service for our neighbours regardless of religion, ethnicity and social status.

"Beyond this season, we should let its virtues be ingrained as our national culture.

"As we celebrate, we should remember the sick, the elderly, our service men and women who stay awake and travel miles from their families to keep us safe and together as a nation, particularly those who died in the course of serving this great nation of ours.

"I want to thank Nigerians for their strong faith in the dream and aspirations of our founding fathers, especially the good people of Kwara State and those of my constituency – Kwara Central Senatorial District – for their sheer resilience and contribution for the development of our nation.

"Finally, it is my promise, as always, that the interests of our beautiful country and our talented people will always be my number one priority. This I will continue to champion with all my strength and every resource at my disposal.

"On behalf of my family, I wish you all a peaceful Christmas in good health and a prosperous New Year in advance."