Dolapo*
To me, Christmas means rest. It means home, and home is where I get to be; to rest.
As an OAU student, Christmas also feels like reset time. A much needed break from the very busy first half of the semester.
I always look forward to Christmas, especially as an adult. I get to set my routine, plan my outings, and now I can “steal” Christmas meat from my mother’s pot with no fear of repercussions. In all, it is a fantastic time.
Badmus*
Christmas, to me, is a special time to reconnect with friends, especially those outside Ile-Ife, and to cherish the moments we share. It’s a season that allows me to reflect on the year, express gratitude to God for his blessings, and recharge for the journey ahead.
Even as a nominal muslim, I find joy in the warmth, togetherness, and meaning this time brings, reminding me of the beauty of unity and gratitude across all walks of life.
Adeola*
Well… Personally, I don’t celebrate Christmas, and that’s because there is evidence in the Bible that shows that Jesus wasn’t born on the 25th of December.
There’s also no Bible account that records Jesus celebrating the day he was born. He only told his disciples to celebrate His death… “Do this in remembrance of me.”
I’m a Jehovah Witness anyway, for context.
Odunayo*
Christmas, to me, has always been about love, togetherness, and family. Growing up, it was a time filled with joyful moments—playing with cousins, throwing fireworks, enjoying Party Jollof, and going on fun outings like beach trips. Christmas was more than an event; it was a feeling of unity and celebration.
However, as I’ve grown older, the essence of Christmas seems to have shifted. It feels more like a display for validation, especially in places like Lagos, where people celebrate for show rather than for meaning. The warmth of family time often gives way to individualism—hanging out with friends or distancing oneself in the name of self-reinvention. Yet, the true meaning of Christmas lies in love, as exemplified by God sending His son for humanity. As we grow, we should strive to embrace this love and stay connected to our families.
As an OAU student, celebrating Christmas is often tempered by academic responsibilities, with exams looming shortly after the festivities. While many still find moments to relax, others focus on studies to avoid falling behind. For me, having spent past Christmases on campus due to exams, being home this year has been a blessing—reuniting with extended family and truly experiencing the joy and love that Christmas represents.
Samson*
Christmas for me is just like every other day. But it’s coupled with the fact that there’s a New Year in sight, and you know, January comes with a lot of stress; trying to settle into the new year, set goals and whatnot. As an OAU Student, I know that I have tests immediately after the Holidays, so it’s mixed feelings for me.
The bright side of it is just getting to spend time with family. Apart from that, Christmas is a reminder that Christ was born and later died, which I think is beautiful. Most of the time, the festivities that come with this period, especially the spending, I think, are unnecessary. But who am I in the grand scheme of things?
To a large extent, I feel it should be more of a thoughtful day, reflecting on all the hullabaloo around. For OAU Students, it’s more or less another period for stress, thinking about academics.
Osagie*
Christmas, to me, represents a period to spread laughter and love to my family and friends.Christmas, which symbolizes the birth of Christ Jesus, is a special time for me to consider the past, plan for the future, and set out goals.
What does Christmas mean to you? Tell us in the comments!!
