Easter: Bishop Odetoyinbo urges Nigerians to embrace hope amid hardship

By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

The Catholic Bishop of Abeokuta Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Peter Odetoyinbo, has called on Nigerians to remain steadfast in hope, resilience and faith, despite the nation’s prevailing economic and security challenges, describing Easter as “the celebration of new life and a bright future.”

In his 2026 Easter message, the cleric greeted Christians with the triumphant declaration, “Christ is risen! Alleluia!” stressing that the resurrection of Jesus Christ remains the bedrock of Christian hope.

“As the Church throughout the world celebrates the victory of life over death, light over darkness and hope over despair, I extend to you my heartfelt Easter greetings and pastoral blessings,” he said.

Bishop Odetoyinbo, however, lamented the harsh realities confronting many Nigerians, including poverty, hunger, unemployment and insecurity. According to him, “many families continue to experience severe economic hardship,” noting that “the cost of living remains painful for ordinary households.”

He also expressed concern over persistent violence and unrest across parts of the country, making reference to the Jos crisis. “Many homes live in anxiety because of insecurity, fear of violence, kidnapping and social instability. The Jos mayhem is still being felt. May God heal the wounded, comfort the families and grant eternal rest to the dead,” he stated.

Offering hope, the bishop reassured the faithful of God’s abiding presence in times of trial. “Christ sees your pain, hears your cries and walks with you. The resurrection assures us that God never abandons His people in the darkest hour,” he said.

He cautioned Nigerians against despair, emphasizing that divine restoration often follows seasons of difficulty. “The same God who raised Jesus from the dead remains Lord of history and Lord of nations. He can still restore what appears broken in our nation,” he added.

Addressing the youth, Bishop Odetoyinbo urged perseverance and self-belief. “Do not lose courage. Your future is not cancelled by present difficulties,” he said, encouraging them to remain focused and committed to developing their God-given talents.

He commended parents for their sacrifices, noting that “your hidden tears are not forgotten,” while also expressing solidarity with victims of violence and displacement, assuring them that “the Risen Christ will not abandon you in fear.”

The cleric further called on Nigerians to reflect the spirit of Easter through compassion, honesty and mutual support. “This Easter calls each of us to become instruments of resurrection for others. Let us refuse to allow hardship to destroy our love for neighbour,” he urged.

Highlighting the importance of values in nation-building, he said, “the future of our nation will not be built only by policies, but also by citizens whose hearts are shaped by truth, faith, justice, sacrifice and moral courage.”

In a message to public office holders, Bishop Odetoyinbo described leadership as a sacred duty. “Authority must serve truth, justice, the dignity of human life and protect all fundamental human rights,” he said.

He concluded by urging continuous prayers for Nigeria, expressing optimism that the nation will overcome its present challenges and attain a brighter future.