By Igba Kuza, with agency reports
The Catholic Archbishop of Abuja Archdiocese, Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, has called on Nigerians to embrace Easter as a time for renewed hope, unity and collective action in the face of national challenges.
Kaigama made the call in his Easter message on Sunday in Abuja, as he reflected on the significance of Christ’s resurrection.
He said Easter was a reminder of the triumph of life and love over death and despair, stressing the need for Nigerians to draw strength from the message of the season.
“As we commemorate Jesus’ triumphant resurrection, I extend heartfelt greetings to all Nigerians.
“This sacred season reminds us of the sacrificial love of Jesus Christ, who bore the weight of humanity’s sins on the cross and conquered death to offer us eternal hope,” he said.
The cleric described Good Friday as a symbol of suffering and sacrifice, while Easter Sunday affirms life, resurrection, and redemption.
He urged citizens to reflect not only on their personal lives but also on the state of the nation, calling for courage, compassion and unity.
Kaigama expressed sadness over recent violence in Uromi, Edo State, and the continued killings in the Plateau, mourning the loss of innocent lives and destruction of communities.
“Our celebration is tempered by grief over the senseless bloodshed and insecurity that continue to plague our country,” he said.
He called for a sincere and coordinated response to the insecurity, urging both government and citizens to reject violence and work together for peace.
The Archbishop also decried the rising hunger and economic hardship in the country, stressing the need for compassion and collective action to ensure no citizen is left behind.
On the political crisis in Rivers, Kaigama appealed for dialogue and restraint, reminding leaders that power is transient and must be exercised in the interest of the people.
Also, the Pastor, Ebenezer Baptist Church, Lafia, Nasarawa state, Rev. Samson Libana, has admonished believers in Nigeria to keep hope alive in any situation they found themselves.
The preacher stated this during the Esther Sunday service, held at Ebenezer Baptist Church, Tudun Kauri Lafia, the state capital.
The clergy, explained that the death of Jesus Christ on the cross of Calvary, has paid the price, swallowed all sins in mankind.
He called on believers to rejoice for Christ is alive further highlighted that his resurrection after death will manifest in our lives and other activities.
“Death is not the end of life, but the beginning of a new and glorious life for those who believe in the risen,” he explained.