On the Frontline With Boma
Every year, as the month of December tiptoes in with its cool winds and lengthening nights, something extraordinary begins to happen across the world. Cities take on a new glow, markets burst into colour, familiar songs fill the air, and an unmistakable sense of anticipation settles on millions of people regardless of faith, nationality, or cultural identity. It is Christmas season once again—a festival rooted in the birth of Jesus Christ, yet celebrated far beyond the boundaries of Christianity.
Christmas is arguably the most widely observed festival in contemporary human society, cutting across continents, religions, races, and belief systems. What began as a solemn marking of the birth of the Messiah has transformed over centuries into a global season of joy, hospitality, commerce, reunion, compassion, and cultural expression. Whether one stands in the snow-covered streets of New York, the bustling gold markets of Dubai, the compact bazaars of Istanbul, or the vibrant villages of Nigeria, the message seems strikingly similar: a celebration is underway.
This column considers the meaning of Christmas, the significance of Jesus’ birth, and the ways Christians and non-Christians observe the season. It also reflects on how the festival plays out in different corners of the world—from the Middle East to Europe, North America, and finally to Nigeria where Christmas carries a weight unmatched by any other festivity.
The Birth of Jesus Christ: A Brief Reflection
Christmas finds its roots in one of the most defining stories in the Christian faith—the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem more than 2,000 years ago. According to Biblical accounts, Jesus was born to Mary, a virgin, through divine conception and in the humblest of circumstances—a manger. His birth, heralded by angels and visitors from faraway lands, was seen as the arrival of hope, peace, and salvation for humanity. Christians believe Jesus came to reconcile man with God and to illuminate a world darkened by sin and strife.
The meaning of Jesus’ birth stretches beyond the historical or theological. It is symbolic of humility, sacrifice, generosity, and unconditional love. His birth teaches humanity that greatness can emerge from unexpected places; that hope can spring from the simplest of beginnings; and that peace is possible in a world fractured by divisions.
Thus, the season of Christmas represents more than festivities. it is a reminder of compassion toward others, renewal of faith, and the reaffirmation of humanity’s shared values. In many Christian communities, Christmas becomes a moment to reflect on the essence of Christ’s message: love one another, forgive generously, and extend kindness to the poor, the lonely, and the forgotten.
How Christians Around the World Celebrate Christmas
While the core meaning of Christmas remains consistent, Christian communities celebrate the festival in ways shaped by history, local customs, climate, and culture.
In Europe and North America
Cities like London, Toronto, New York, Paris, and Berlin transform into breathtaking wonderlands. Snow blankets rooftops, Christmas markets glow with lights, and the smell of cinnamon and roasted chestnuts weaves through the air. Churches hold carol services, families gather for dinners, and communities engage in charity drives—feeding the homeless, donating to shelters, and sharing gifts.
In the Middle East
Even in places where Christians form a minority such as parts of the Gulf,Christmas is observed with respect and growing enthusiasm. In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, giant malls host massive Christmas installations, shops display decorations, and expatriate communities gather for worship and celebrations. Despite being Islamic nations, the UAE encourages cultural coexistence, allowing Christmas to flourish publicly.
In Africa
From Ghana to Kenya, Cameroon to South Africa, churches host elaborate services with singing, dancing, and drama reenactments of Jesus’ birth. Families prepare special meals, communities exchange visits, and rural areas come alive as people return home from cities. For many African Christians, Christmas is as much a religious observance as it is a cultural homecoming.
How Non-Christians Celebrate Christmas
One of the unique features of Christmas is its acceptance beyond Christianity. The festival has grown into a global cultural event embraced for its atmosphere, aesthetics, and values. Non-Christians often participate in Christmas for several reasons: the joy of celebration, the beauty of the season, the social environment, and the commercial opportunities it brings.
In the Middle East: A Tale of Coexistence
A striking example is Dubai’s Deira district, a vibrant commercial hub dominated by Muslim traders. Markets, shops, and the famous gold souk gleam with Christmas decorations. Muslim shop owners put up Christmas trees, snow-themed lights, and festive ornaments—not because they observe Christmas religiously but because they understand the cultural and commercial importance of the season. It is also an expression of hospitality toward diverse customers and expatriate communities.
Similarly, in Istanbul, Turkey’s commercial heartbeat, Christmas trees and sparkling street lights appear in December. Turkey is predominantly Muslim, yet its cosmopolitan cities adopt the festive spirit sometimes blending it with New Year celebrations. In both places, Christmas becomes a celebration of diversity and goodwill.
In Asia
Countries like Japan, China, and South Korea where Christians make up a minority celebrate Christmas predominantly as a cultural holiday. Streets are decorated, romantic couples go on Christmas dates, businesses run holiday sales, and families enjoy festive meals. In Japan, Christmas is viewed as a time for spreading happiness, not necessarily a religious obligation.
In the West
Even among non-religious communities in Europe and America, Christmas remains a cherished season. It is valued for its family reunions, festive ambiance, charity movements, and the tradition of giving.
Christmas in Nigeria: A Festival Like No Other
If there is any nation where Christmas holds unrivalled social, cultural, spiritual, and economic importance, it is Nigeria. Across the country—from bustling cities to remote villages,the season is celebrated with unmatched enthusiasm. Nigerians treat Christmas as both a religious festival and a national cultural event.
For Christians
Christmas is a sacred moment for reaffirming faith. Churches host multiple services, carols, retreats, and night vigils. Families gather, prayers are offered, and joyous thanksgiving fills the air. For many, Christmas is a time to rededicate themselves, reflect on their spiritual journey, and renew their wait on the Lord.
For Muslims
Though not a religious celebration for Muslims, many participate in the spirit of the season. They exchange visits, prepare special meals, join community celebrations, and extend goodwill to Christian neighbours. For some, it is a moment to renew their commitment to Allah while appreciating the unity and peace that festive seasons bring to communities.
For Traditional Worshippers
Christmas aligns with the year’s end—a period when many traditional worshippers offer libations, perform rituals, and honour their ancestors. Some join in the communal merriment, appreciating the festive energy that sweeps through towns and villages.
For the Nigerian Government
Unfortunately, Christmas often brings less cheer. Instead of spreading goodwill, successive governments have used the season to introduce petrol price hikes, electricity tariff increases, and economic policies that make life harder for citizens already burdened by inflation. Christmas becomes a period when the suffering of the masses is aggravated, turning joy into silent frustration.
For Transporters
Transport operators—road and air—see Christmas as their “season of harvest.” Prices skyrocket as people travel home to reunite with their families. Tickets double or even triple, and many Nigerians endure long queues, vehicle shortages, or exploitative fares just to reach their ancestral homes.
For Traders and Business Owners
The markets come alive. Tailors work day and night, foodstuff sellers record high patronage, and entertainers host shows and concerts. Christmas is the most economically active period for small and large businesses alike.
For Young People
To the youth, Christmas is the season of fashion, parties, concerts, and social media show-offs. New clothes, hairstyles, phones, and outings dominate the mood. For some, it is the one period they can express themselves freely through entertainment and recreation.
For the Unwise
Sadly, Christmas is also the season when some people waste their savings, indulge recklessly, or spend beyond their means in an attempt to impress society. As the New Year dawns, many find themselves lamenting, borrowing, or regretting choices made in December.
What Christmas Ultimately Teaches Us :
Amid the decorations, travel, commerce, religion, and excitement, Christmas carries deeper lessons:
First,the value of kindness and generosity
Second,.the importance of peace and coexistence
Third, the beauty of cultural harmony
Fourth is the need for reflection, renewal, and hope and lastly,
the significance of family, community, and shared humanity
Whether celebrated in churches, mosques, market squares, or streets filled with neon lights, Christmas remains a global reminder that the world can pause its conflicts, suspicions, and struggles,even if briefly, and choose joy.
Christmas is more than a Christian festival. It is a global season of unity, a cultural bridge, and a symbolic reminder of hope. From Dubai’s gold markets to Istanbul’s illuminated streets, from the snowy squares of Toronto to the lively towns of Nigeria, the message of Christmas endures: peace on earth and goodwill to all.
As we celebrate once again this year, may we embrace the essence of the season—not just the festivities but the compassion, reflection, and generosity that define the true spirit of Christmas.
Merry Christmas
On the Frontline With Boma is published by The Port Harcourt Telegraph Newspaper and authored by the Managing Editor
