On Palm Sunday, Christian Association of Nigeria Calls for Easing of Citizens' Suffering

A solemn procession marked the 2019 Palm Sunday, led by the Catholic Bishop of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, and parishioners of the Our Lady Queen of Nigeria Pro-Cathedral, Garki, Abuja, as captured by Abayomi Adeshida on 14/04/2019.

n

The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has urged political leaders at all levels to take immediate action to alleviate the growing economic hardship faced by Nigerians, as the nation's Christians observed Palm Sunday.

n

CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, emphasized that the significance of Palm Sunday offers valuable lessons for leadership, particularly during a period marked by economic strain and global uncertainty, in a statement issued on the occasion.

n

Reflecting on the biblical account of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem, Okoh noted that the moment embodied humility, peace, and purposeful leadership, rather than a display of power, as Jesus entered the city with calm resolve at a time of uncertainty and expectation.

n

Okoh stated that the country's current socio-economic realities demanded similar qualities from those in authority, saying that many Nigerians are feeling the weight of the times, with the cost of living rising and daily life getting harder for countless families.

n

He linked domestic economic challenges to global developments, particularly tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, which are disrupting energy markets worldwide, resulting in increased fuel prices, transport costs, and food prices.

n

Okoh warned that such pressures are intensifying the hardship faced by ordinary citizens, emphasizing that in times of uncertainty, the tone and actions of leaders are critical in restoring public confidence.

n

He stated that for many Nigerians, the concern is simple and immediate: how to cope, how to plan, how to stay afloat, and that when life feels uncertain, people need reassurance, stability, and the quiet confidence that those in positions of responsibility understand what they are going through.

n

Okoh urged leaders to embrace a style of governance rooted in restraint, compassion, and commitment to the common good, saying that true leadership is not always loud, but is seen in empathy and in decisions that ease burdens, calm anxieties, and bring people together.

n

He added that this is a time for such wisdom, and that the CAN leader also called on the Church and citizens to promote unity and peace, drawing inspiration from the collective spirit associated with Palm Sunday.

n

Okoh encouraged young Nigerians and those most affected by the economic downturn to be resilient and hopeful, saying that the challenges are real, but they are not the end of the story, and urged citizens not to lose faith amid difficulties.

n

He expressed hope that the lessons of Palm Sunday would inspire renewed commitment to national cohesion and shared progress, saying that as the nation journeys through this sacred season, may the spirit of Palm Sunday guide us towards quiet courage, shared purpose, and a renewed commitment to the good of all.