The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has urged Nigerians not to lose hope in the country despite current challenges, assuring citizens that better days will emerge if leaders and citizens work together in faith, unity, and compassion.
In a Palm Sunday message released to mark the Christian celebration, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said the occasion serves as a reminder that in difficult and uncertain times, people need reassurance, stability, and the quiet confidence that those in authority understand what they are going through.
Palm Sunday is a significant event in the Christian calendar as it marks the triumphant entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem and the beginning of the Holy Week leading to Easter. According to Okoh, the message of the day is one of hope, humility, sacrifice, and faith even in the face of trials.
He noted that Nigeria is currently passing through a period where many citizens are experiencing economic hardship, insecurity, and uncertainty, stressing that leaders must respond with empathy, humility, and a sincere commitment to improving the lives of the people.
The CAN President specifically appealed to political leaders across the country to embrace empathy and humility as essential tools for governance, noting that leadership is not only about policies and projects but also about compassion, understanding, and the ability to feel the pains of the people.
Okoh explained that Palm Sunday teaches the virtue of humility, as Jesus Christ entered Jerusalem not with soldiers or weapons, but in peace and humility, symbolising a leadership style rooted in service rather than power.
He said, “Palm Sunday reminds us that in tense moments, people need reassurance, stability, and the quiet confidence that those in positions of responsibility understand what they are going through. This is a message to our leaders that the people need to feel seen, heard, and cared for.”
Meanwhile, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State also called on Nigerians to use the period to pray for peace, progress, and development of the state and the country at large. He urged citizens to remain united and avoid actions that could threaten the peace and stability of society.
The governor said that national development can only take place in an atmosphere of peace and unity, adding that prayers, cooperation, and responsible leadership are necessary for Nigeria to overcome its current challenges.
Religious leaders across the country also used the Palm Sunday celebrations to preach messages of peace, tolerance, forgiveness, and unity among Nigerians, urging citizens not to allow ethnic, religious, or political differences to divide them.
Observers say the message from CAN comes at a time when many Nigerians are looking for reassurance and direction amid economic and security concerns. The association’s call for hope and responsible leadership is seen as a moral appeal to those in authority to govern with compassion and fairness.
The Christian body reaffirmed its commitment to continue praying for the nation and supporting efforts that promote peace, unity, and development. It also encouraged Nigerians to support one another, show kindness to the less privileged, and remain hopeful that the country will overcome its present difficulties.
As Christians across Nigeria marked Palm Sunday, the overarching message remained clear — that hope, humility, and compassion must guide both leaders and citizens if the nation is to move forward and achieve lasting peace and development.
