Easter: Ndagoso calls for hope, responsible leadership, and active citizenship

The President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), Matthew Man-Oso Ndagoso, has called on Nigerians to embrace hope, deepen their faith, and actively participate in building a just society as Christians across the country celebrate Easter.

In his Easter message today, Saturday, the Archbishop reflected on the just-concluded Lenten season, describing it as a solemn period of self-examination, repentance, and spiritual renewal that culminates in the celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ—the central mystery of the Christian faith.

He recalled the journey from Good Friday through Holy Saturday, marked by despair and silence, to the joy of Easter Sunday, when the stone was rolled away from Christ’s tomb. Drawing a parallel with Nigeria’s current situation, Ndagoso expressed hope that the “stone of suffering” weighing heavily on many Nigerians would also be rolled away.

According to him, millions of citizens continue to endure hardship due to insecurity, including insurgency, kidnappings, and armed robbery, as well as economic struggles that have forced some into degrading means of survival. He attributed much of the nation’s challenges to years of poor leadership characterized by selfishness, greed, nepotism, and disregard for the common good.

“The suffering of Nigerians today finds meaning in the Cross of Christ,” he said, noting that Christ’s death and resurrection offer both consolation and hope. He emphasized that just as God did not abandon Jesus in His moment of agony, He remains present with all who suffer.

The Archbishop described the cry of Jesus on the cross—“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”—as a reflection of the anguish experienced by many people today. He stressed that God identifies with the poor, the marginalized, and victims of injustice, and continues to share in their suffering.

Ndagoso further highlighted that the Resurrection signifies God’s ultimate victory over evil, urging Nigerians not to lose hope despite ongoing challenges. “Whatever your present situation, do not give up because the Lord is risen,” he said.

Addressing victims of violence and hardship, he encouraged them to see their suffering as a pathway to experiencing the power of the Resurrection, adding that even in adversity, faith can reveal new life and meaning.

The CBCN President also urged Christians to encounter the risen Christ through acts of love and service, including caring for the sick, supporting internally displaced persons, and assisting the needy. He emphasized that genuine faith must be expressed through practical compassion and community solidarity.

Turning to national issues, Ndagoso called on Nigerians to prepare for the 2027 general elections with a renewed sense of civic responsibility. He stressed the importance of voting and participating in the democratic process to promote the common good.

While acknowledging widespread voter apathy due to past electoral shortcomings, he urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to restore public confidence by ensuring free, fair, and credible elections.

He also appealed to eligible voters to obtain and verify their voter cards, describing participation in elections as both a civic duty and a moral obligation. The Church, he added, would continue to educate citizens through its social teachings and institutions such as the Justice, Development and Peace Commission (JDPC).

Ndagoso further called on political and religious leaders to support efforts that make voter registration and participation more accessible to all Nigerians.

Concluding his message, the Archbishop reminded citizens of the eternal significance of their earthly lives, urging them to make choices that promote justice, love, and the common good.

“I wish you a very happy and joyful Easter celebration,” he said.