*Bishops Borokini, Fagbemi, others lend voices, harp on faith

…as Catholic cleric laments declining rate in moral value, generosity

By Akinnodi Francis, Ayodele Popoola, Adeboye Ado

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As Christians all over the world celebrate Easter, marking Cruxifixion, and the resurrection of Jesus Christ, notable clerics in the country have dotted on the trying times in Nigeria, urging residents to be hopeful, steadfast, and resilient.

The clergymen who include Most Rev’d Simeon O. Borokini, Bishop of Akure and Archbishop of the Ondo Anglican Ecclesiastical Province; the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Owo, Rt. Reverend Dr. Stephen Ayodeji Fagbemi, and others, admonished that ongoing socio-political and economic challenges required hardwork, prayers and dedication to overcome.

Speaking at the Easter Sunday service at the Cathedral Church of St. David in Akure, Bishop Borokini emphasised that the resurrection of Jesus Christ secured the ultimate future for Christians, serving as a divine shield amid the nation’s struggles.

The ckeric highlighted that Christ’s resurrection should inspire Christians to share the gospel and spread hope to those in need.

He also described Christ’s resurrection as a triumphant victory of righteousness over unrighteousness, light over darkness, and life over death, attributes he described asessential pillars of the Christian faith.

He reassured congregants that despite current adversities in the nation and globally, including recent violence in Plateau State and other parts of the country, God remained their ultimate protection.

Underscoring the significance of the resurrection in the life of every Christian as a foundation for hope and salvation, Borokini stated that Jesus Christ’s resurrection reminded us that our future is secure, regardless of our circumstances.

The Archbishop noted that Christ’s resurrection, which has given Christians renewed hope, should be a motivation for them to share the gospel with others and proclaim the good news to those desperately in need of it.

His words: “Jesus Christ’s resurrection reminds us that our future is secured, no matter what we are going through, what is happening in the country, what is going on globally, or what has just happened in Plateau State -the kidnapping and the killings -God is the only insurance cover.”

Similarly, the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Owo, also in Ondo State, the Rt. Reverend Dr. Stephen Ayodeji Fagbemi, declared that the resurrection of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of the Christian faith.

He particularly described ‘resurrection’ as a powerful testament to the ultimate triumph of God’s light over the darkness of sin, suffering, and death.

In the same vein, in a 2025 Easter message, made available by the Diocese’s Deputy Public Relations Officer, Omoba Adesoye Ajayi, Bishop Fagbemi emphasised that Easter goes beyond mere festivity.

According to him, it stands as a profound declaration of divine victory, offering hope to a world beset by trials and uncertainties.

“Easter is the heart of our faith -the declaration that life has conquered death, hope has overcome despair, and the love of God has the final word,” the Bishop stated.

Addressing members of the Owo Anglican Diocese and Christians across the world, Bishop Fagbemi urged believers to embrace the power of the resurrection and allow it to bring spiritual renewal into their personal lives, families, and communities.

He called on the faithful to rekindle their commitment to God, especially in trying times.

“As we celebrate the resurrection of Christ, let us rekindle our faith, strengthen our hope, and rededicate ourselves to the service of God and humanity. The empty tomb is a symbol that impossibilities can be overturned and that no situation is beyond God’s power,” he said.

The Bishop encouraged Nigerians to remain united, seek peace, and uphold justice, stressing that the message of Easter bears a divine promise of transformation and a better future for all.

He concluded his message with prayers for national peace, the continued progress of the Church, and the wellbeing of families within the Diocese and beyond.

Bishop Fagbemi’s Easter message resonated as a call to renewed faith and action, anchoring Christians once more to the enduring truth that through Christ’s resurrection, hope is eternally alive.

Also, Parish Priest of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, Akinjagunla,Ondo, Rev. Fr. Nathaniel Agboh, said Nigerians are faced with various challenges that test their faith in God.

He made the declaration during the Easter Sunday celebration in Ondo.

He said the challenges include, persecution, religious conflicts, hunger, attack and kidnapping that create fear everywhere.

He said the Nigeria’s economy had greatly affected everyone, including churches and made it difficult for Christians to practise generosity and support missionary work.

According to Fr. Agboh, “Moral value decline on a daily basis while respect for culture is gradually being compromised as people struggle with maintaining their faith amidst secular ideologies and lifestyles”.

He noted that Easter celebrations remind us that true faith is not about external appearances but about a deep, personal relationship with God.

“As we celebrate Easter, we are reminded of the true meaning of sacrifice, as Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross was not about dehumanizing or oppressing others but about redeeming humanity from sin and its consequences”

The clergyman urged government at all levels to continue to prioritise the welfare of the citizens, and ensure that their actions promote human dignity and well-being.

“The government should embark on comprehensive economy development policies that will promote inclusive growth, job creation, and reduce dependency on volatile commodities. Also, invest in sectors that will create sustainable employment opportunities for the citizens.”

He called on Nigeria leaders to demonstrate integrity in their governance, ensuring that their actions are guided by principles of justice, fairness, and compassion.

He said, “I am optimistic that through unity, strategic evangelism, youth engagement, and community involvement, Nigeria can overcome her challenges and thrive in faith and influence.

“May this Easter season bring renewal, restoration, and rejuvenation to our spirit.

On his part, the Vicar-in-Charge of The African Church, St. James Archdeaconry, Akungba-Akoko, Ven. Samuel Asimolowo, urged the Christian faithful in Ondo State to remain committed in their service to God.

Asimolowo, who made this known during his Easter Sunday sermon, encouraged the congregation to imbibe the virtues of Christ and remember His second coming.

Quoting John 14:16–19, Asimolowo said, “After Jesus rose from the dead, He did not leave us alone. He gave us the Holy Spirit, our comforter and helper. God also made a promise that if we ask anything in faith, He will give it to us. This is one of the blessings that came after the resurrection.”

He added, “We must remember that only God lives forever. We, as humans, have limited time on earth. That is why it is important to serve God sincerely while we still have the chance.

“If we truly believe that our God is alive, then we should give Him our whole hearts.

“But the question remains: are the leaders in the church truly serving Him wholeheartedly?”