Lent: Let’s rise above hardship, heal Nigeria , CAN President urges Nigerians

As Christians across Nigeria mark Ash Wednesday, the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh, has called on Nigerians to use the Lenten season as a time for reflection, sacrifice, and national healing.

In a statement, Archbishop Okoh extended prayers and goodwill to all Nigerians, regardless of faith, urging them to embrace the spirit of Lent as an opportunity for renewal and unity amid the country’s ongoing challenges.

“Lent is a 40-day journey of sacrifice, prayer, and charity, echoing the time Jesus Christ spent fasting in the wilderness. For us in Nigeria, this season arrives amid challenges—rising living costs, insecurity, and daily struggles to put food on the table. Yet, Lent calls us to hope, urging us to look beyond our hardships and draw strength from faith and community,” he said.

Addressing Nigerians from different walks of life, including traders, farmers, teachers, students, and transport workers, the CAN President encouraged everyone to use this season to reflect on what truly matters. He called for a spirit of generosity, reconciliation, and shared sacrifice as the country navigates economic and social difficulties.

“As Nigerians, we understand sacrifice and endurance. Lent resonates with the patience of mothers stretching meals, the courage of fathers toiling under the sun, and the faith of children praying for a brighter future,” he stated.

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Archbishop Okoh also urged prayers for national leaders, emphasizing the need for wisdom, compassion, and justice in governance. He called on citizens to rise above division and work towards a united Nigeria where dignity and peace prevail.

“I urge Christians to approach this Lenten season with sincerity and invite all Nigerians—regardless of creed—to join in this spirit of renewal. Let us pray for our leaders to govern with wisdom and compassion, for our youth to find purpose and opportunity, and for ourselves to rise above division and build a nation we can all be proud of,” he said.

The CAN President concluded by asking for divine blessings upon Nigeria and its people, expressing hope that this Lenten season would mark the beginning of a transformative journey for the nation.

Lent, observed by millions of Christians worldwide, is a period of fasting, prayer, and almsgiving leading up to Easter. It serves as a time for spiritual renewal, self-examination, and deeper faith commitments.

As the nation embarks on this sacred season, Archbishop Okoh’s message serves as a reminder that unity, faith, and perseverance remain crucial in overcoming Nigeria’s challenges.