The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has called on leadership at all levels to recognise the urgency of the economic hardship in the country and take the needed action towards bettering the living standard of the citizens.
The President of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, in a statement to mark the Ash Wednesday and the beginning of the Lenten season, charged Christians to see the period as an opportunity for self-reflection, repentance, spiritual growth, renewal, and learning to love and be compassionate like Jesus Christ in our daily lives.
“This is a call to action to support those enduring economic hardships in Nigeria,” the statement added.
“Today, as we mark the beginning of Lent with Ash Wednesday, we are reminded of the solemnity of this period and the significance it holds for our faith and our society.
“The ashes placed on our foreheads serve as a reminder of our mortality, our humble origin, and how the body of the first man, our forefather Adam, was formed from the earth.
“They also remind us of the return of our bodies to dust, urging us to reflect on our purpose and the impact of our actions on the world around us.
“It is a time when we are reminded to grieve for our sins and the sins of our nation and to seek the face of the Lord for forgiveness and restoration.
“During this time of self-examination and sacrifice, we are called to contemplate the ways in which we can contribute to the well-being of others, as Christ, our Lord, would do.
“It is a period for us to extend a helping hand to those in need and advocate for continuing support from our leaders in alleviating the burdens of our fellow citizens.
“As we embark on this Lenten journey, our hearts are drawn to the plight of many who struggle to make ends meet, facing financial uncertainty and limited access to basic needs.
“We long for a Nigeria where every individual is afforded the opportunity to thrive, and where our leaders prioritize the well-being of the most vulnerable in our society.
“I urge our leaders at all levels of governance to recognize the urgency of the economic challenges facing our nation and to take concrete action in providing support for individuals facing economic hardship.
“Let us come together in solidarity and commitment to create a more inclusive and compassionate society where the burdens of the marginalized are alleviated and their voices are heard.
“As we embark on this season of Lent, let us embrace a spirit of understanding, empathy, and service to others.
“Together, let us strive to build a Nigeria where compassion and support for our fellow citizens are central to our values and actions.”
