The Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Malam Lanre Issa-Onilu, has called on Nigerians to uphold the values of love, tolerance, and unity as Christians across the country mark Easter.
Issa-Onilu made the call in a statement released on behalf of the agency, where he emphasised the significance of Easter as a season of sacrifice, reconciliation, and renewed hope. He urged citizens to reflect these virtues in their daily interactions, regardless of differences in religion, ethnicity, or political affiliation.
Describing the current period as critical in Nigeria’s history, the NOA boss stressed that the country’s strength lies in its diversity and the collective resolve of its people to build a united and prosperous nation.
He, however, warned that terrorists and other criminal elements remain a major threat to national unity, cautioning Nigerians not to allow such groups to succeed in their efforts to destabilise the country.
The NOA DG cited recent security incidents, including bomb attacks in Maiduguri during the Ramadan period and the deadly assault on Angwan Rukuba community in Jos on Palm Sunday, as reminders of the dangers posed by enemies of peace and progress.
Issa-Onilu assured citizens that the government remains committed to tackling insecurity, noting that efforts are ongoing to deploy necessary resources and strategies to address the challenge across the country.
He further urged Christians and Muslims to remain united against common threats, stressing that terrorists and their sponsors must not be allowed to create division or weaken Nigeria’s long-standing tradition of peaceful coexistence.
The NOA boss also called on religious leaders, traditional rulers, the media, and civil society organisations to promote peace and counter divisive narratives and hate speech often exploited by extremist groups.
He concluded by extending Easter greetings to Christians nationwide, expressing hope that the season would bring healing, renewed hope, and harmony to the country.
