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Palm Sunday: Show Compassion, Reduce Hardship – CAN Urges Leaders

Published

6 months ago

March 29, 2026

Joel Ajayi

As Christians mark Palm Sunday, the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh, has called on leaders across the country to demonstrate empathy and take deliberate steps to ease the burden on Nigerians facing economic hardship.

Reflecting on the significance of Palm Sunday, Okoh noted that the day commemorates the humble entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem—a moment marked not by power or grandeur, but by peace, purpose, and quiet strength. He said this enduring example remains a powerful lesson for leadership, especially in times of uncertainty.

According to him, many Nigerians are currently grappling with rising living costs, making daily survival increasingly difficult for families. He pointed out that global tensions, particularly involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, have contributed to instability in energy markets, with direct consequences on fuel prices, transportation, and food costs within Nigeria.

“In times like these, people need reassurance and stability,” Okoh stated, emphasizing that leadership should be guided by restraint, compassion, and a commitment to the common good. He stressed that decisions taken at this moment must aim to reduce hardship, calm public anxiety, and promote unity.

The CAN President also urged the Church and all people of faith to embrace their responsibility as agents of hope and peace. He highlighted the unity displayed during Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, where people from diverse backgrounds came together in expectation and humility, noting that such a spirit is urgently needed in the country today.

He encouraged Nigerians, particularly the youth and those most affected by current economic challenges, not to lose hope, assuring them that the present difficulties are not permanent.

“As we journey through this sacred season, may the spirit of Palm Sunday inspire quiet courage, shared purpose, and renewed commitment to the good of all,” he said.

Okoh concluded with prayers for the nation, urging collective action toward peace, unity, and national renewal.

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Nigeria at 66: ‘We Must Not Lose Faith in Nigeria’ — FCC Boss Omidiran

Published

14 hours ago

October 1, 2026

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Honorable Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, has called on Nigerians to use the occasion of the nation’s 66th Independence Anniversary to renew their faith in Nigeria, strengthen national unity and recommit themselves to building a more inclusive and prosperous country.

In her 66th Independence Day message, Hon. Omidiran described October 1 as more than a celebration of freedom, saying the anniversary provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey, acknowledge its progress and challenges, and renew the collective determination to build a nation where every citizen has a sense of belonging.

According to the FCC Executive Chairman, the Federal Character Principle remains particularly important to the quest for national cohesion because equitable representation promotes a sense of ownership and confidence in the Nigerian project.

“Nigeria is a nation of great diversity and
enormous potential. Our responsibility is to ensure that this diversity becomes a bridge that connects us rather than a barrier that separates us. Every Nigerian deserves to feel that he or she belongs to this country and has a role to play in its development,” Omidiran said.

The FCC boss called on government institutions at all levels to remain committed to fairness, equity, accountability and inclusive governance, while urging citizens to support efforts aimed at strengthening national institutions and promoting peaceful coexistence.

“We must not lose faith in Nigeria. The challenges before us are real, but so are the opportunities and the enormous human and natural resources available to us. Every citizen has a responsibility to contribute his or her own quota to building the Nigeria we desire,” she stated.

The FCC Executive Chairman also urged young Nigerians to remain committed to acquiring knowledge and skills, entrepreneurship, innovation, sports and other productive ventures, describing the youth as critical stakeholders in the country’s future.

“As we celebrate 66 years of independence, let us remember that the Nigeria we want cannot be built by government alone. It requires the commitment of all of us – leaders and citizens, young and old, from every part of the federation. Together, we can build a Nigeria where justice, fairness, opportunity and peace are available to all,” she said.

Omidiran reaffirmed the FCC’s commitment to the effective discharge of its constitutional mandate and to supporting efforts that promote equitable representation and inclusive national development across the federation.

The former lawmaker wished Nigerians at home and abroad a peaceful and memorable 66th Independence Anniversary, praying for continued peace, stability, prosperity and progress for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“Our differences should never be greater than our common identity as Nigerians. Let us continue to choose unity over division, service over self-interest and hope over despair. The Nigeria of our dreams is possible if we all play our part,” Omidiran said.

“On behalf of the Federal Character Commission, I congratulate all Nigerians on this 66th Independence Anniversary. May this occasion renew our patriotism, strengthen our unity and inspire us to work together for a stronger, more equitable and prosperous Nigeria. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” she added.

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