Palm Sunday: CAN, AbdulRazaq urge Nigerians not to lose hope

The yearly Christian event, Okoh said, reminds everyone that in tense moments, people need reassurance, stability, and the quiet confidence that those in positions of responsibility understand what they are going through.

Read Also: ‘Lagos, FCT, Kaduna, Enugu, six others are Nigeria’s investment gateways’

The CAN president urged those in authority to prioritise the welfare of the people and adopt a modest lifestyle to help mitigate the several economic hardships currently being experienced by citizens across the country.

In a statement yesterday in Abuja, Okoh said: “As we observe Palm Sunday, we remember a powerful moment. Jesus entered Jerusalem with calm resolve, at a time of uncertainty and expectation. It was not a show of force but a message of peace, purpose, and hope. In a tense atmosphere, he chose humility, riding on a colt, not in the trappings of power. That choice still speaks to us today.

“Across Nigeria, many are feeling the weight of the times. The cost of living is rising. For countless families, daily life is getting harder. Events far beyond our borders, especially tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, are unsettling global energy markets. The impact is already here. Fuel is more expensive. Transport costs are rising. Food prices are climbing. In moments like this, the calm and clarity of Palm Sunday matter even more.

“For many Nigerians, the concern is simple and immediate: how to cope, how to plan, how to stay afloat. When life feels this uncertain, the tone of national life matters. Words carry weight. Actions have consequences.

“That is why the lesson of Palm Sunday matters for leadership. True leadership is not always loud. It is seen in restraint, in empathy, and in a steady focus on the common good. It is reflected in decisions that ease burdens, calm anxieties, and bring people together. This is a time for such wisdom.

“For the Church and all people of faith, Palm Sunday is also a call to responsibility. It reminds us of a rare moment when people from all walks of life came together with one purpose: to welcome the Messiah in hope, humility, and expectation. That same spirit is needed now. We must stand for peace. We must strengthen unity. We must support one another. In a season that can easily tilt towards tension, we must remain a steady source of light and hope.

“And to every Nigerian, especially the young and those feeling the strain most deeply, do not lose hope. The challenges are real, but they are not the end of the story. As we journey 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. May God bless our nation.”

Also, scores of residents yesterday marched through the major streets of Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, to celebrate this year’s Palm Sunday.

The religious procession passed through major roads, including Murtala Muhammed Way, Maraba, Amilegbe, Ipata, Opo-Malu, Emir’s Road, Taiwo Isale, and Unity Road.

It created a vibrant display of faith that lasted several hours before returning to the cathedral for a closing benediction.

In the spirit of the occasion, Governor AbdulRazaq called for prayers to enable the country to overcome its challenges.

Represented by his Senior Special Assistant on Christian Affairs, Rev. Timothy Oluwagbemiga Akangbe, the governor admonished the citizens to embrace love, humility and peaceful coexistence, as exemplified by Christ.

The Chairman of the state branch of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Sunday Adewole, urged Christians to remain committed to their faith and continue serving God with dedication.

He also urged the government and security agencies to prioritise the protection of lives and property, stressing that the safety of citizens must not be compromised.

Adewole also drew attention to the economic hardship Nigerians have been facing, saying the rising cost of petroleum products and persistent epileptic electricity supply continue to put pressure on households and businesses.