On April 5, 2026, Christians throughout Nigeria and globally observed Easter, a pivotal celebration marking the conclusion of the 40-day Lenten period that commenced on Ash Wednesday. The observance included morning Masses, various church services, and reciprocal visits, as faithful commemorated the resurrection of Jesus Christ following his crucifixion.
The crucifixion and resurrection events form the bedrock of Christian belief, representing atonement for humanity's sins and demonstrating divine commitment to mankind's redemption. Crucially, Easter symbolises humanity's triumph, offering the promise of victory and eternal life through Christ.
The Lenten season began with Ash Wednesday, where ashes placed on believers' foreheads served as a memento of their mortality and the imperative to live righteously. This led into a period of fasting, prayer, almsgiving, and forgiveness, drawing the faithful closer to God and fostering a yearning for the humility exemplified by Jesus, thereby preparing them for the more glorious reality of resurrection.
Daily Trust extends congratulations to all Christians for successfully completing the Lenten season and celebrating Easter. We trust that their supplications were heard and that they will experience the season's blessings.
We urge Nigerians to use this solemn period for introspection, particularly given the nation's ongoing challenges with persistent insecurity, loss of lives and property, and significant economic hardships.
Nigerians are reminded of the season's core message: the necessity of living transparently, especially for those in leadership. As Jesus Christ stated in Mark 10:45, "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve and to give His life as ransom for many."
This season of sacrifice calls for Nigerians to live for the collective good, eschewing avarice. Our leaders are implored to follow the example of Jesus Christ, who offered his life for salvation, and to act as true servants of the people. Their positions of authority are divinely granted for the service of citizens, not for personal gain.
Such sacrificial living demands selflessness and consideration for others, prioritizing the common good. This aligns with the teachings in 1 Peter 2:21: "For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps."
This is a time for all people of goodwill to practice forgiveness, foster peace, and live in community, mirroring the inclusive spirit shown when individuals of other faiths joined Christians in Easter celebrations. These attributes of peaceful coexistence are vital for mitigating the violence plaguing our communities, necessitating a renewed spirit of reconciliation with God and among Nigerians.
Daily Trust also appeals to Christians to embody the personal and spiritual renewal that resurrection signifies, living lives of compassion as demonstrated by Jesus's transformative journey.
The season calls for inter-religious cooperation and mutual support. Religious leaders must emphasize the fear of God, which appears diminished in areas plagued by kidnappings, killings, and destruction. The erosion of God-fearing values in our daily lives must be halted and reversed.
Ultimately, the core lessons of Easter and the promise of a new beginning through Jesus's resurrection serve as a potent symbol for overcoming adversity, highlighting the enduring power of hope even in the bleakest circumstances.
These teachings should inspire us all to leave behind past anger and bitterness, embracing a future filled with joy and peace, transformed by faith in God's grace. The virtues inherent in Easter must not be forgotten as the celebrations conclude.
Easter should be a constant reminder of selfless love that prioritizes others, even at great personal cost, challenging us to reflect God's love in our interactions. This should empower adherents to embrace a fresh start, marked by repentance, release from past burdens, and acceptance of grace.
May the lessons of Easter 2026 usher in fresh hope, renewal, and love into your life.
Happy Easter.
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