By Fr. Michael Nsikak Umoh
As Nigerians celebrate Easter, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has issued a clarion call for national resilience, urging citizens to remain hopeful despite the “excruciating burden” of poor governance and rising insecurity. This was contained in a 2026 Easter message titled “Don’t Let Go Now, Hold On To Hope!”, by the President of the CBCN, Most Rev. Matthew Man-Oso Ndagoso, as he addressed a nation grappling with what he described as the “darkest hour” of its history.
The message draws a sharp parallel between the suffering of Jesus and the current realities in Nigeria. Archbishop Ndagoso noted that many Nigerians are currently bearing “crosses of grief” caused by relentless insurgency, kidnappings, and armed banditry. He stated these travails are the direct consequences of years of leadership marked by selfishness and greed, nepotism and tribalism, and a total lack of commitment to the common good
Despite this “gloom,” the Church maintains that the power of the Resurrection ensures that “weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning”.
With the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) already releasing the timetable for the 2027 General Elections, the CBCN used the Easter address to issue a stern reminder of civic duty. Addressing the “dangerous voter apathy” currently affecting the electorate, the Archbishop emphasised that “faithful citizenship” requires becoming informed and active participants. He appealed to all eligible voters to ensure their cards are ready and verified, urging them to elect only individuals with competence and integrity.
The Bishops also directed a specific admonition to INEC, demanding that the electoral body take all necessary steps to ensure that all votes are not only counted but are seen to count. The message stressed that no willing voter should be disenfranchised by administrative challenges or technical “glitches”.
Closing the address, the CBCN offered words of solidarity to those suffering from joblessness, communal attacks, and the loss of loved ones.
“Because the tomb is empty, no grave, not even the challenges facing Nigeria, can hold back the power of a new beginning,” the statement read. The Church remains steadfast in its prayer that Nigeria will soon be restored to a “season of peace and plenty”.
