President Bola Tinubu and his wife, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, have urged Nigerians to embrace unity, compassion, and hope as the country celebrates Easter.
In his 2026 Easter message released on Good Friday, President Tinubu acknowledged ongoing security challenges across Nigeria, including terrorism and banditry, but reassured citizens that the government is working with foreign partners to tackle these threats. He praised the Armed Forces for their sacrifices and called on Nigerians to remain hopeful despite persistent insecurity.
“Despite the efforts of our administration and the bravery of our men and women in uniform, insecurity continues to affect parts of the nation. Yet progress is being made, and security leaders have provided assurances of improvement,” Tinubu said, referencing his recent visit to Plateau State where he met victims of violence.
The President also used the Easter message to stress the importance of political maturity ahead of the 2027 general elections, urging citizens to prioritize peace, stability, and national interest in their political choices.
Echoing her husband’s message, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu encouraged Nigerians to extend compassion to vulnerable members of society, noting that Easter symbolizes love, sacrifice, and hope. “As we celebrate with loved ones, let us remember those in need and act with kindness,” she said.
Religious leaders also joined in the call for unity. The Emir of Ilorin, Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, described Easter as a time to reflect on forgiveness and sacrifice, while the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Wahab Egbewole, highlighted the coinciding of Ramadan and Lent this year as a symbol of interfaith unity. Christian leaders, including the Anglican Bishop of Kwara Diocese, Sunday Adewole, and Nonye Soludo, wife of the Anambra State Governor, encouraged forgiveness, reconciliation, and national harmony.
However, the Easter period was overshadowed by ongoing violence in Northern Nigeria. The Forum of Northern Christians condemned attacks in Plateau and Kaduna States during Palm Sunday, which left several dead and many injured, calling for stronger security measures and accountability.
Meanwhile, former lawmaker Dr Farah Dagogo highlighted the economic struggles of Nigerians, urging leaders to translate the lessons of Easter into policies that alleviate hardship, including addressing unemployment, rising costs, and insecurity.
Despite these challenges, religious and civic leaders emphasized that Easter remains a season of hope, resilience, and reflection, urging Nigerians not to lose faith in the nation’s potential for peace and progress.
