Nigerians urged to reflect true meaning of Easter in celebration

As Christians across Nigeria and the world commemorate Easter, religious leaders and believers are urging deeper reflection on the spiritual significance of the season beyond the festivities.

While Easter is often marked by new clothes, family gatherings, travel and social celebrations, many Christians say the foundation of the season remains the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the cornerstone of the Christian faith.

Joshua Oladapo, a young professional, described Easter as deeply personal.

“Personally, Easter is a season to reflect on the sacrifices Jesus made for us,” Oladapo said. “It makes me conscious of the kind of life I must live to honour Christ.”

Beyond attending church services, he sets aside time for personal reflection.

“I usually withdraw from people for a day to evaluate and reflect on my walk with God,” he explained.

According to him, the message of resurrection provides reassurance despite life’s challenges.

“It gives me hope because I know someday, I will reign with Him, even though there are hurdles we must face in life,” he added.

Daniel Adeyemi, a devoted Christian, believes the true meaning of Easter is only lost when believers allow distractions to overshadow it.

“Easter is only overshadowed if we allow it to be,” Adeyemi said.

“Many Christians still observe it with prayer, church services and reflection on Jesus’ death and resurrection.”

He emphasised the importance of guiding younger generations to understand its spiritual importance.

“We tell the Easter story in a simple way, use Bible verses, lead by example, involve them in church activities, and ask questions that encourage discussion,” he noted.

For Adeyemi, the central lesson of Easter is resilience anchored in faith.

“Even after the darkest moment, God brings life, hope and victory,” he said.

Joshua Odeniyi, founder of Great Light Revival Ministries, Lagos, said Easter represents the fulfillment of prophecy through Christ’s death and resurrection.

“Easter commemorates the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ on the third day,” Odeniyi said. “If Christ did not rise, then our faith would be in vain.”

According to him, the resurrection validates the Christian faith and assures believers that death is not the end.

“It proves that no matter what one is going through, if you are in Christ, that situation will not write your end,” he said.

On balancing celebration with reflection, Odeniyi stressed the need for intentional spirituality.

“The work of salvation was bought at a price. The best way to honour that sacrifice is to accept the finished work of Christ and live according to His teachings,” he said.

Amid Nigeria’s economic and social challenges, Odeniyi said the Easter message speaks directly to the nation.

“The suffering of this present time cannot be compared to the glory that awaits if we yield to God,” he said. “If we embrace righteousness and peace, God can bring the nation out of crisis.”

Easter Sunday marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ three days after His crucifixion.

Christians believe His death was a sacrifice for humanity’s sins, while His resurrection signifies victory over sin and death and offers the promise of eternal life.

As churches fill with worshippers this weekend, believers say Easter should remain more than a holiday on the calendar. It is, they insist, a declaration of faith — that Christ died, was buried and rose again — bringing forgiveness, hope and the promise of new life.