MINISTER of Mines and Steel Development, Dr Kayode Fayemi, on Friday called on Nigerians, especially Christians to imbibe the spirit of love, perseverance and sacrifice which the Lord Jesus Christ exhibited in ensuring the salvation of humanity.
In his Easter message, which authorised by his Special Assistant, Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode, a copy of which was made available to Tribune Online in Abuja, Dr Fayemi congratulated them for the successful completion of the Lenten season, a period of 40 days of fasting and prayer that culminated in the Easter celebration.
The minister further felicitated with them for witnessing another Easter season, saying the period offered Christians opportunity for sober reflection, even while celebrating with friends and families.
He then admonished them to imbibe and reflect on the lessons associated with the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ, urging them to use the opportunity to pray for God’s intervention in the affairs of the country, especially in bringing lasting solution to its economic challenges and making it a better nation.
Fayemi said Easter symbolises sacrifice and service to God and humanity and urged Nigerians to emulate the life of Jesus Christ who laid down his life for mankind.
The minister urged them to continue living in harmony with adherents of other religions, stressing that this would go a long way in making Nigeria a truly peaceful and prosperous nation.
According to him, “our challenges are surmountable, if we unite, love one another, remain resolute, committed, patient and hopeful.
“We should persevere in prayers for our leaders at all levels and the country for divine wisdom to enable us surmount all our socio-political and economic challenges.
“This time requires more patience, sacrifice, prayers and a renewed hope in the Nigerian nation. We have passed through even more difficult situations before, and we shall triumph over this too as we remain committed to actualising the much desired change,” he added
Urging Christians and the citizens in general to pray for the country, the minister said Nigeria was going through difficult times occasioned by economic downturn.
He added that the challenges were temporary as the present administration was committed to bringing lasting succour to the citizenry.