By Abiola Olawale
As Nigerians join the global Christian community to celebrate Easter 2025, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has delivered a heartfelt message of hope, resilience, and unity amid rising concerns over insecurity across the country.
In a statement released on Good Friday, April 18, the President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ending the scourge of violence and restoring peace nationwide, while urging citizens to reflect on the values of sacrifice and love during the Holy Week.
In his Easter address, Tinubu extended warm felicitations to Nigeria’s Christian community, emphasizing the significance of Easter as a time of reflection, redemption, and hope.
He drew inspiration from the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ, describing these events as the cornerstone of the Christian faith and a reminder of the power of renewal.
Tinubu’s message comes at a challenging time, as Nigeria grapples with escalating insecurity, including recent attacks in Plateau and Borno states.
Just days before Easter, a landmine explosion in Borno reportedly claimed eight lives, while gunmen reportedly killed at least 51 people in Plateau.
Also, in Benue, three persons were reportedly killed on April 3 when a Benue Links bus was ambushed at Ikobi community in Otukpo Local Government Area, LGA, while on April 10, two farmers were murdered by the marauders in Gwer West LGA.
Same day, three persons were killed at Mbasombo community also in Gwer East LGA, while the latest attack on Otobi Akpa in Otukpo LGA and the boundary with Nasarawa State claimed the lives of at least 13 persons, with several others declared missing.
In response, Tinubu said he has issued a stern directive to the military and security agencies to take decisive action to curb insecurity.
He urged citizens to remain steadfast, assuring them that Nigeria would overcome its challenges just as “Christ triumphed over death.”
The statement reads in part: “The recent tragic incidents and the loss of lives in some parts of our country deeply saddened me. I understand the pain and fear these incidents have caused. Let me assure you that my administration’s resolve to restore peace and security remains unshakable. Forces of evil will never prevail over our country.
“I have given clear directives to the Armed Forces and all relevant security agencies to end insecurity decisively and without delay. With the unwavering courage and commitment of our gallant men and women in uniform, we are turning the tide and making steady progress in reclaiming peace and stability.
“As President of our blessed nation, I draw inspiration from this timeless message of hope and renewal. I remain steadfast in my commitment to delivering the promise of a Renewed Hope, a better, more just, and prosperous Nigeria for all.
“The Holy Week, which spans Palm Sunday through Holy Thursday and Good Friday and culminates in Easter Sunday, calls us to reflect deeply on the enduring values of sacrifice, redemption, love, and hope.”
The President also expressed gratitude to Nigerians for their “patience and resilience as our economy begins to show encouraging signs of recovery.”
“We understand the economic challenges many of you are facing, and we are working tirelessly to restore investor confidence, stabilise key sectors, and build an inclusive economy that serves the interests of all Nigerians.
“During this Easter, we join the global Christian community in thanking God for Pope Francis’s recovery. We pray that his renewed strength continues to inspire his leadership and service to humanity.
“I earnestly pray that Easter’s spirit fills every heart and home with renewed faith in the immense possibilities ahead of us as a nation. Just as Christ triumphed over death, so too shall our country triumph over every challenge we face. The present moment may be cloudy, but it will usher in a glorious day,” he added.
