President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerian
Christians to draw strength from the themes of sacrifice, redemption, love, and
hope during Holy Week and Easter, while ordering security forces to take
decisive action to end rising violence across the country.
In a Good Friday message released on April 18, two
days before Easter Sunday, Tinubu acknowledged the pain wrought by recent
attacks and pledged that his administration’s commitment to restoring peace
remains “unshakable.”
“The recent tragic incidents and the loss of lives in
some parts of our country deeply saddened me. I understand the pain and fear
these incidents have caused,” the President said. “I have given clear
directives to the Armed Forces and all relevant security agencies to end
insecurity decisively and without delay.”
Tinubu praised the “unwavering courage and commitment”
of Nigeria’s military and police, asserting they were making “steady progress
in reclaiming peace and stability.” He warned that “forces of evil will never
prevail over our country.”
Drawing on Easter’s message of renewal, the President
urged citizens to reflect on “the enduring values of sacrifice, redemption,
love, and hope” as Nigeria confronts both security and economic challenges. He
thanked Nigerians for their “patience and resilience as our economy begins to
show encouraging signs of recovery,” and reiterated his administration’s focus
on restoring investor confidence, stabilizing key sectors, and fostering
inclusive growth.
“We understand the economic challenges many of you are
facing, and we are working tirelessly to … build an inclusive economy that
serves the interests of all Nigerians,” Tinubu said.
In a nod to the wider Christian community, he also
offered prayers for Pope Francis’s recovery from recent health issues,
celebrating the pontiff’s leadership and service to humanity.
Concluding on an optimistic note, Tinubu drew a
parallel between Christ’s triumph over death and Nigeria’s ability to overcome
its present difficulties.
“Just as Christ triumphed over death, so too shall our
country triumph over every challenge we face. The present moment may be cloudy,
but it will usher in a glorious day.”
Nigeria has grappled with renewed bouts of violence in
several regions this year, including attacks by armed groups in the North West
and Middle Belt. Tinubu’s directive signals an intensified security campaign
ahead of the Easter weekend, as the government seeks to reassure a restive
population and reinforce national unity.
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