As the Lenten season begins, the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh, and the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, have called on Nigerians to use the 40 days fasting period to deepen their love for one another, pray for peace in the land, show kindness and walk together for a Nigeria where justice and dignity prevail.
Okoh urged Christians to look beyond the current hardship in the country and draw strength from faith and hope.
He said: “To traders in Lagos, the farmer in Benue, the teacher in Kano, the driver in Port Harcourt, the student in Enugu, and Nigerians of all walks of life: Lent invites reflection on what truly matters. It offers a chance to release bitterness, share our resources with neighbours, and seek God’s grace for the journey ahead. Whether fasting from food or other passions, this season reminds us that we are united as one people under God, connected by our shared struggles and dreams.”
In his message to mark Ash Wednesday, which signals the beginning of the Lenten season, the cleric said the season calls for reflection, renewal, and recommitment for everyone “seeking to pause and consider the direction of our lives and our nation.”
Mrs. Tinubu, on her part, yesterday, implored the Christian community to use the period to draw closer to Christ, show kindness to others and deepen their commitment to serving humanity.
In her Lenten message, she pointed out that the season is a time of repentance, supplication, prayers and good deeds.
“As we begin the season of Lent, may this time strengthen our resolve to follow Christ’s example of love.
“I urge us to use this period to draw closer to Christ, show kindness to others and deepen our commitment to serving others.
“Let us walk together in the light of Christ, with hope in our hearts and compassion for all.
“We should also remember our dear nation, Nigeria, in prayers for peace and prosperity, as we all build together a nation that will take her place among the comity of nations,” the message read in part.
The Parish Priest of St. Jude Catholic Church Mafoluku, Oshodi, Lagos, Reverend Father Patrick Okoye, charged Nigerians on repentance and hope.
Amid the precarious economic situation, he explained that the Lenten season was a period of reflection on Christians’ repentance and deep relationship with God.
Okoye submitted that it would benefit Nigerians if they came to God and asked for His intervention in the current situation.
