The Christian Association of Nigeria has expressed optimism that Nigeria will overcome its current challenges, assuring citizens that the country will rise again despite the economic and security difficulties facing many households.
In its Easter message to Nigerians, the association said the season offers a strong reminder of hope, renewal, and the possibility of a better future even in difficult times.
The President of CAN, Daniel Okoh, made this known in a statement on Sunday, noting that the message of Easter is especially relevant to the present situation in Nigeria.
According to him, Easter symbolises hope returning when it seems lost, life after despair, and a new beginning after hardship.
“It is a message that speaks directly to Nigeria today,” Okoh said.
He acknowledged the struggles faced by many Nigerians, pointing out that across the country, families are dealing with hardship, insecurity, and uncertainty about the future.
“People are weary. Families are anxious. Many do not feel safe, and others are struggling just to get by,” he said.
The CAN president added that for some Nigerians, hope appears to be fading due to the current realities. However, he stressed that Easter serves as a reminder that difficult situations do not last forever.
“For some, hope has grown faint. But Easter tells us this is not the end. We do not have to remain where we are. We can rise, rebuild, and move forward, together,” he said.
In his message, Okoh also addressed political leaders across the country, urging them to show greater commitment to improving the lives of citizens.
He said leadership at all levels must go beyond promises and deliver real, visible change that people can feel in their daily lives.
“For those in leadership, this is a test of purpose. People must feel leadership, not just hear it,” he said.
According to him, Nigerians are looking for practical solutions to their problems, including improved security, better economic conditions, and access to basic services.
“They are looking for action, for empathy, for visible efforts to improve their lives. That is how a nation begins to rise,” he added.
Nigeria has been facing a number of challenges in recent years, including rising cost of living, unemployment, and insecurity in some parts of the country. Many families have had to adjust to higher prices of food, transportation, and other basic needs.
Security concerns, including banditry, kidnapping, and communal clashes, have also continued to affect several communities, especially in the northern part of the country.
Against this background, CAN’s message highlights the need for leaders to respond with urgency and compassion.
Okoh also spoke about the role of the Church during challenging periods, saying religious institutions must provide guidance and support to the people.
“For the Church, this is a moment to stand firm and speak clearly. People are searching for hope they can hold on to,” he said.
He urged churches across the country to remain active in supporting their members and communities, especially those going through hardship.
“The Church must be present; standing with the struggling, offering direction, and helping to light the way forward,” he added.
Religious organisations in Nigeria often play a major role in providing social support, including food assistance, counselling, and community outreach programmes. During periods of economic hardship, many Nigerians turn to faith-based groups for both spiritual and material support.
Easter, one of the most important events in the Christian calendar, marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ and is widely seen as a symbol of victory over suffering and death. For many Christians, it is a time for reflection, renewal, and hope.
The CAN president also called on Nigerians to remain united and avoid actions that could deepen divisions in the country.
He urged citizens not to give up on one another, despite the challenges they face.
“And for Nigerians everywhere, this is no time to give up on one another,” he said.
Okoh warned that while some individuals or groups may seek to create fear or division, Nigerians must respond with courage and unity.
“There may be those intent on keeping the rest of us in fear, but we must resist; not with panic or division, but with courage, solidarity, and a shared belief in one another,” he stated.
Nigeria is a diverse country with many ethnic, religious, and cultural groups. While this diversity is often seen as a strength, it has also led to tensions in some cases. Leaders and community groups have continued to emphasise the importance of unity and peaceful coexistence.
Okoh said difficult times can either divide people or bring them closer together, depending on how they respond.
“Hard times can divide, but they can also unite. If we choose unity over suspicion and look out for one another, change becomes not just possible, but certain,” he said.
The CAN president concluded his message by describing Easter as more than just a celebration, but a call to action for Nigerians.
“Easter is more than a celebration; it is a decision,” he said.
According to him, Nigerians must choose to rise above their differences and work together to address the challenges facing the country.
“It is a decision to rise above our differences, to stand together, and to confront what holds us back,” he added.
He expressed confidence that if Nigerians embrace unity, hope, and collective effort, the country will overcome its current difficulties.
“And if we make that choice, together, then Nigeria will rise again,” he said.
As Christians across Nigeria mark Easter, CAN’s message adds to the voices of religious and community leaders calling for hope, unity, and renewed commitment to building a better nation.