As Christians across Nigeria marked the Easter celebration, President Bola Tinubu used the occasion to reaffirm his administration’s unwavering commitment to ending insecurity and rebuilding the economy. In his Easter message delivered on Friday, Tinubu empathised with families impacted by violence and pledged that his government would not relent until peace and stability were restored across the country.
The President expressed deep sorrow over recent violent attacks, particularly in Plateau and Benue states, where gunmen killed at least 52 people and displaced over 1,800 residents in a series of coordinated assaults on rural communities. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) confirmed the tragic loss of lives, injuries, and property destruction in affected villages, with camps established to shelter displaced victims.
President Tinubu, acknowledging these losses, stated, “The 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.” He praised the courage of Nigeria’s security operatives and assured citizens that progress was being made to turn the tide against terror and criminality.
In support of the President’s directive, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, ordered increased surveillance, strategic deployment, and visibility policing across the nation. A statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, instructed Commissioners of Police and Assistant Inspectors-General to secure places of worship, public spaces, and highways to prevent security breaches during the Easter festivities.
Complementing these efforts, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) deployed personnel to manage traffic and ensure safe travel across major routes. The FRSC Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, emphasized adherence to traffic regulations and responsible driving, noting that road safety was essential for a peaceful Easter celebration.
While addressing national security, Tinubu also acknowledged the growing economic challenges facing Nigerians. He assured the public that his administration is working tirelessly to attract investment, stabilize key economic sectors, and build a more inclusive and resilient economy.
“As we celebrate Easter, let us remember that our country, like the resurrection story, is on a path to recovery. We must remain united, hopeful, and resilient,” Tinubu stated, drawing symbolic parallels between the spiritual renewal of Easter and Nigeria’s journey toward socio-economic transformation.
In Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo paid April salaries and pensions ahead of Easter to ease financial burdens on civil servants and pensioners. According to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the governor’s gesture was part of his commitment to people-focused governance and ensuring citizens could celebrate Easter with dignity.
Also weighing in, former federal lawmaker Dr. Farah Dagogo urged Nigerians to embrace the virtues of sacrifice and collective responsibility, calling Easter a time for national reflection, moral rebirth, and renewed dedication to justice and equity.
Prominent Christian leaders used their platforms to deliver spiritually uplifting messages. Bishop David Oyedepo of the Living Faith Church (Winners’ Chapel), speaking during the Easter Faith Convention in Ogun State, reminded Christians of their spiritual authority through Christ’s resurrection. He urged believers to be mindful of their speech, quoting Proverbs 18:21, “Life and death are in the power of the tongue.”
At the Deeper Christian Life Ministry in Lagos, Pastor William Kumuyi echoed the essence of Easter, stressing Christ’s redemptive sacrifice. “Jesus took our place, bore our curses and afflictions, and gave us a new life,” Kumuyi preached, calling on believers to deepen their spiritual understanding and live out the values of resurrection.
Easter 2025 comes at a time when Nigeria is battling both economic and security challenges. President Tinubu’s message, reinforced by actions from law enforcement and encouragement from religious leaders, sets a tone of hope, unity, and determination to overcome the country’s pressing issues.
As Nigeria commemorates the resurrection of Christ—a symbol of triumph over despair—many citizens look forward to a new dawn marked by security, prosperity, and collective progress. Tinubu’s vow to decisively tackle insecurity and revive the economy will remain a critical watchpoint as the nation continues its journey toward transformation.