Easter: Nigeria Must Rise, This Is Our Moment – CAN

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has declared that Easter represents a decisive moment for the nation, calling on Nigerians to rise above despair, division, and fear.

In an Easter message signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN described the resurrection of Jesus Christ as a powerful metaphor for national rebirth, urging citizens not to surrender to the hardships currently facing the country.

“At Easter, as we mark the resurrection of our Lord, Jesus Christ, we are reminded of a simple, enduring truth: no matter how hard life has been, rising again is always possible.

“That is the meaning of Easter: hope returning when it seems lost, life after despair, a new beginning after a difficult moment. It is a message that speaks directly to Nigeria today,” Okoh said.

The CAN President acknowledged the deep anxiety and weariness across the country, with many families struggling for safety and survival.

“Across the country, people are weary. Families are anxious. Many do not feel safe; others are struggling just to get by. For some, hope has grown faint. However, 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.

Okoh issued a direct challenge to the nation’s leaders, insisting that governance must be felt, not just heard.

“For those in leadership, this is a test of purpose. People must feel leadership, not just hear it. They are looking for action, for empathy, for visible efforts to improve their lives. That is how a nation begins to rise,” he said.

He also called on the Church to stand firm in this season, offering direction and hope to those who are struggling.

“For the Church, this is a moment to stand firm and speak clearly. People are searching for hope they can hold on to. The Church must be present; standing with the struggling, offering direction, and helping to light the way forward,” he stated.

To ordinary Nigerians, the CAN President urged resilience and solidarity, warning against panic or division.

“And for Nigerians everywhere, this is no time to give up on one another. 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.

“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.

“Easter is more than a celebration; it is a decision. A decision to rise above our differences, to stand together, and to confront what holds us back. And if we make that choice, together, then Nigeria will rise again,” he said.