Easter: A Call to Hope Amid Hardship, Says Bishop Odetoyinbo

By Miracle Okoro, Abeokuta 

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

In his 2026 Easter message, the cleric extended warm greetings to Christians, proclaiming, “Christ is risen! Alleluia!” while emphasizing that the resurrection of Jesus Christ remains the foundation 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.

Reflecting on the current state of the nation, Bishop Odetoyinbo acknowledged the widespread hardship facing many Nigerians, including poverty, hunger, unemployment and insecurity. He noted that “many families continue to experience severe economic hardship,” adding that “the cost of living remains painful for ordinary households.”

He also drew attention to the lingering impact of violence and unrest in parts of the country, including 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 said.

Offering words of reassurance, the bishop reminded the faithful that God remains present in their struggles. “Christ sees your pain, hears your cries, and walks with you,” he stated. “The resurrection assures us that God never abandons His people in the darkest hour.”

He urged Nigerians not to give in to despair, stressing that divine intervention often follows periods of trial. “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 said.

Addressing young people, Bishop Odetoyinbo encouraged perseverance and faith in the face of uncertainty. “Do not lose courage. Your future is not cancelled by present difficulties,” he said, urging them to remain disciplined and committed to developing their talents.

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

The bishop called on citizens to embody the spirit of Easter by promoting compassion, honesty and mutual support. “This Easter calls each of us to become instruments of resurrection for others,” he said. “Let us refuse to allow hardship to destroy our love for neighbour.”

He further emphasized the role of moral values in national development, stating that “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 directed at public office holders, Bishop Odetoyinbo described leadership as a sacred responsibility. “Authority must serve truth, justice, the dignity of human life and protect all fundamental human rights,” he added.

Concluding his message, the bishop urged continued prayer for Nigeria and expressed