Former President Goodluck Jonathan, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and several Nigerian governors have used the Easter season to call for peace, unity, and selflessness among citizens.
In his Easter message, Jonathan encouraged Nigerians to remain hopeful and learn from the sacrifice and love of Jesus Christ.
“This day reminds us all of the sacrificial death of Christ for humanity and His gift of salvation,” Jonathan said. “Let this season renew our faith, strengthen our hope and guarantee us peace. Let us continue to pursue these virtues and work towards building a nation of peace, unity and love.”
He also reminded Nigerian leaders to follow the example of Jesus by serving others with humility and passion. “This moment points us to the virtues of servanthood, sacrifice and passion for service. Let us recommit to pursuing peace and justice for all,” he added.
Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State also wished Christians a happy Easter, saying the season reminds people of the power of sacrifice and forgiveness.
“Easter reminds us of the power of sacrifice, forgiveness, and redemption—principles that can guide us as we build a more united Katsina,” his spokesperson, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, said.
Radda praised the Christian community for contributing to peace and development and urged all residents to pray for the state and the country.
In Niger State, Governor Mohammed Bago asked Christians to pray for leaders across the country so they can govern wisely.
“The people should pray that God will guide government officials at all levels and give them wisdom to serve humanity better,” Bago said in a message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim.
He also called on citizens to celebrate peacefully and avoid actions that would damage the image of Christianity.
Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, also urged residents to show love, humility, and honesty during the Easter period. He described the season as a time for reflection and called on people to forgive and unite.
“This season calls for sober reflection,” the governor said through his media aide, Mukhtar Gidado. “May we find the strength to forgive, the courage to reconcile, and the resolve to walk in love and peace.”
Mohammed asked citizens to rise above ethnic and political differences and work together for peace. He also promised to continue efforts to keep the state safe and united.
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, in his Easter message to Abuja residents, described the holiday as a time to promote compassion, sacrifice, and forgiveness.
“I urge all residents to embrace the spirit of Easter by showing love to one another, being our brother’s keeper, and fostering unity,” he said.
He called on residents to pray for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other leaders, and to support the FCT Administration by paying taxes and following government rules.
Meanwhile, a safety campaign led by Pernod Ricard Nigeria and the Lagos State Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) was also held during the Easter season.
The campaign warned drivers against drinking and driving.
FRSC Lagos Sector Commander, Kehinde G. Hamzat, said, “Members of the public should not drink alcohol and drive, so they do not lose their lives or the lives of loved ones.”
Pernod Ricard Nigeria’s Managing Director, Michael Ehindero, said the company joined the campaign to promote road safety and reduce accidents.
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) also supported the event. Lagos NDLEA Commander, Abubakar Wali, through his representative Stella Amechi, urged the public to stay away from drug and alcohol abuse.
“Let us work hand in hand to ensure that all efforts are directed against drug abuse,” she said.
