Pillar Today

  • 61st Birthday: Take My Birthday Gifts to Orphanages, Less Privileged, Others and Show Me Evidence, Gov. Eno

    61st Birthday: Take My Birthday Gifts to Orphanages, Less Privileged, Others and Show Me Evidence, Gov. Eno

    Gov. Umo Eno.

    By Anietie Akpan

    Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno has barred elaborate celebrations on his 61st birthday coming up on April 24.

    In a press statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ekerete Udoh, said, as he did last year, the Governor would appreciate in advance the goodwill, prayers and warm sentiments that usually attends this occasion.

    In this regards, the statement said, “in place of elaborate celebrations and other expressions of love and goodwill through gift items, the Governor will appreciate if such resources could be channelled to orphanages and the less privileged; visits to hospitals and other humanitarians acts that would significantly bring joy and cheers the neediest on his birthday”.

    The statement said, the Governor “wants the occasion of his birthday to be one where the spirit of altruism and kindness resonate throughout the land”.

    Accordingly, it was further directed that all well wishers, “may take pictures and make videos of your visits as mementos  to mark  the Governor’s Birthday and send them to the Chief Press Secretary for documentation.

    “His Excellency, the Governor, again, appreciates deeply your kind understanding and expected considerations”.

  • NAWOJ Shows Love to Elderly at Good Samaritan Home

    NAWOJ Shows Love to Elderly at Good Samaritan Home

    NAWOJ Chairman, CRS chapter, Rekpene Uket (4th from left), Rev. Sister Mary Claudia (3rd from left) and others during the visit to the Pope John Paul II Good Samaritan Home in Calabar on Monday

    By Anietie Akpan

    In a heartwarming Easter outreach, the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Cross River State chapter, brought smiles to the faces of elderly residents at the Pope John Paul II Good Samaritan Home in Calabar.

    The team, led by Chairperson Rekepne Uket, on Monday donated essential food items and toiletries to the home, emphasizing the need to show love and compassion, especially during festive seasons.

    “This visit is a way of saying thank you to God for His love by sharing what we have with those often forgotten. In previous years, we celebrated Easter with the aged at another home, and we will continue to reach out as God gives us grace,” she said.

    Uket made a passionate appeal to government bodies, NGOs, civil society groups, corporate firms, and individuals to join hands in supporting the less privileged, stressing the tough economic realities many of these homes face.

    Speaking on behalf of the  people, Mr. Akpan, emotionally shared his story with the visitors, saying,. “I was abandoned by my own family, but this home took me in. God bless you for remembering people like us who have no one. You didn’t just bring gifts, you brought hope”.

    Representing the management of the Good Samaritan Home, Rev. Sister Mary Claudia, expressed deep gratitude to NAWOJ for their thoughtful gesture towards the home.

    “We are truly thankful for your love and generosity. It gives us strength and encouragement,” she said.

    She however, noted the enormous challenges faced by the home, especially in caring for the aged without steady support.

    “We need the help of kind hearted individuals and institutions. The burden is heavy, and we can’t carry it alone. The elderly here rely on our collective compassion”, she said.

    Rev. Sister Claudia concluded by urging society to continue showing up for its most vulnerable members.

  • Governor Otu, Wife, Clergymen Lead Parade at “Jesus Carnival”

    Governor Otu, Wife, Clergymen Lead Parade at “Jesus Carnival”

    Governor of CRS; Apostle Bassey Otu (centre), his wife, Bishop Eyoawan Bassey Otu. (3rd from right), State Chairman of CAN, Rev. Takis Etim Caiafas (4th from left); Bishop Josef Bassey (2nd from right); Bishop Emma Isong 1st from right) and others during the flag off of the Jesus Carnival.

    By Anietie Akpan

    The Cross River State Government has officially introduced a new annual event into its tourism calendar.

    The event, titled “Carnival Parade of Thanksgiving and Festival of Praise” — popularly known as the “Jesus Carnival” — will be held every Easter season.

    A release from the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Nsa Gill, said the maiden edition took place on Easter Monday in the state capital, Calabar, and was flagged off by the Governor, Apostle Bassey Edet Otu, alongside his wife,Bishop Eyoawan Bassey Otu.

    The colorful and spiritually charged event, marked by splendor and cultural flair, is a spiritual offshoot of the globally celebrated Carnival Calabar, traditionally held every December.

    Organizers explained that the Jesus Carnival is designed as a moment of collective gratitude to God for the success of Carnival Calabar and the continued progress of the state. It blends faith, culture, and thanksgiving into a unique Christian celebration during the Easter season.

    A prototype giant Bible on one of the trucks at the Jesus Carnival on Monday.

    Speaking at the event, Governor Otu declared: “Jesus Christ has taken Cross River State to unimaginable heights within two years of this administration. From inception, I declared this a Godly state, and Jesus the true Governor. Easter Monday has now been set aside to celebrate Jesus and to say, ‘Father, thank You for how far You’ve brought us.’ The story of Cross River State is changing for the better. I’m grateful to all the men and women of God who have continually kept the state in their prayers.”

    He called on more Christians to join the effort to pray for Cross River, emphasizing that “no investment in the things of God is ever wasted.” The Governor also thanked the large contingent of clergy who led their congregations in participating in the event.

    The parade route covered several strategic locations across Calabar Municipality and Calabar South, including Millennium Park, Watt Market, Nelson Mandela Street, Target Street, and the Mary Slessor Roundabout, before returning to the main carnival corridor as  Prayers were offered at various roundabouts along the way, adding a spiritual dimension to the march.

    Governor Otu and his wife danced and sang alongside thousands of Christian faithful, with gospel music echoing through the streets in a jubilant expression of faith.

    Bishop Eyoawan Otu, speaking before the flag-off, said the vision for the Easter event was inspired by a desire to dedicate a significant part of the tourism calendar to Jesus Christ.

    “While Carnival Calabar is a secular celebration, this is a spiritual festival — one created to honour Christ for His sacrifice and celebrate our faith as a people,” she explained.

    The Special Adviser to the Governor on Event Management, Mr. Effiong Ekpenyong, described the Jesus Carnival as the brainchild of the First Lady, crediting her prayerful support for much of the administration’s success.

    He coordinated the parade’s logistics and highlighted its significance as a new attraction in the state’s growing tourism offerings.

    “With this spiritually uplifting addition to its tourism calendar, Cross River State has reaffirmed its identity as a place where culture and faith intersect—making Easter not just a religious observance, but a state-wide celebration of divine gratitude and praise,” he concluded.

    The celebration culminated with live gospel music performances, headlined by internationally acclaimed singer, songwriter, and producer, Cobhams Asuquo, whose electrifying performance left the crowd in awe.

    Prayers were led by prominent religious leaders, including the State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. Takis Etim Caiafas; Bishop Josef Bassey; Bishop Emma Isong; Bishop Bassey E. Edem; Apostle Frank Umoh, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Affairs; and several others across various Christian denominations.

  • Sustenance of Peace Far Outweighs Any Political Interest, Governor Eno

    Sustenance of Peace Far Outweighs Any Political Interest, Governor Eno

    Gov. Pastor Umo (Centre), his Deputy, Senator Akon Eyakenyi (left) and others during the State’s Evening of Hymns at the International Christian Worship Centre, Uyo on Monday.

    By Anietie Akpan

    Akwa Ibom State, Governor,Pastor Umo Eno, has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to unity and reconciliation across the state, declaring that the sustenance of peace far outweighs any political interest.

    He said his greatest joy is the unity currently existing in the State across party lines, which he had promised during his campaigns.

    Speaking at the International Christian Worship Centre during the State’s Evening of Hymns, the Governor underscored the spiritual and social progress made in bringing Akwa Ibom people together under a common purpose.

    Pastor Eno was particularly pleased by the song rendered by the PDP State Exco led by Elder Aniekan Akpan, and the song rendered by the Stephen Ntokekpo led APC Exco which also had another APC chieftain, member representing Ikot Ekpene federal constituency in the House of Representatives, Dr Patrick Umoh.

    Governor Eno described the action as the successful fulfillment of a divine mandate to reconcile the people of Akwa Ibom.

    A cross section of worshipers at the International Christian Worship Centre during the State’s Evening of Hymns in Uyo.

    “I have fulfilled the ministry of reconciliation that God laid in my heart for Akwa Ibom. Today, we have brought Akwa Ibomites from all walks of life under one roof,” he declared.

    The Governor expressed gratitude for the prevailing peace and harmony in the state, describing it as a reflection of divine intervention and the collective goodwill of the people.

    He emphasized that his leadership is anchored on unity rather than political alignment, affirming his role as a leader for all Akwa Ibomites, irrespective of party affiliation.

    “I’m not leading PDP, I’m not leading APC. I’m leading Akwa Ibom State. I am the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, not the Governor of any political party,” he asserted, drawing resounding applause from the audience.

    He further stressed the need for inclusivity and cross-party cooperation as essential ingredients for sustainable development.

    One of the Choirs.

    Using biblical imagery to reinforce his message, Governor Eno said: “I am happy that brothers can now go to their brother’s house and eat together, because we are children of the same ancestry.”

    He urged citizens to see one another as family and to uphold peace, unity, and mutual respect in all spheres of life, noting that such values are fundamental to building a stronger and more prosperous Akwa Ibom State.

    Earlier, in a stirring homily titled “He Arose”, drawn from Matthew 28:1–6, Rev. Dr. Gabriel Nkanang, Senior Pastor of Word Tabernacle Worldwide, encouraged Christians to stand firm in their faith, declaring that Christ’s resurrection overcame the darkness of the grave and empowered believers to live in His might and glory.

    “The grave could not hold the Son of Light. Because He arose, we now live in His power and endless might,” he proclaimed.

    Several strata of government and parastatals, including Commissioners, Local Government Chairmen, Board Chairmen and members, permanent secretaries, personal aides to the governor, Honorary Special Advisers, PDP Exco members, APC Exco members, Inter Party Advisory Council , security agencies, the judges, and select choral groups, rendered hymns in praises to God.

  • MTC Mourns Shimite Love

    MTC Mourns Shimite Love

    Late Mrs Shimite Love.

    By Dianabasi Effiong

    The Management of the Maris Trust Council (MTC) has described the death of Mrs Shimite Love as shocking.

    MTC, in a statement by its Secretary, Comrade Fidelis Egugbo, on Monday in Asaba, said that Mrs Love, who was one of the discussants at the Maris Annual Public Service lecture – a lecture series organised by the MTC – was not only beautiful but intelligent.

    Egugbo said, “It is with heavy heart that we received the passing of Mrs Shimite  Love.

    “She died in the early hours of Monday, April 21, 2025.

    “Though the cause of her death could not be ascertained as the autopsy result was not yet out, we sympathise with members of her family, her friends, especially the Moderator in Maris Lecture Series, Prof. Kemi Emina, the Odiega of Ebu, where Mrs Love hails from.

    “Recall that Mrs Love was a discussant at the year 2022 edition of Maris Annual Public Service Lecture, held on Wednesday,  April 13, 2022, at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba. Rt. Hon. Festus Ovie Agas delivered the Keynote Address at that lecture where he spoke on the topic,  ‘Selfless Service,  A Phenomenal Virtue.’

    “Until her death, she was the Special Adviser to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Trade and Export.”

    Mrs Shimite Love (Nee) Nwakalo was born into the family of the late Mr Jacob Okwunudu Nwakalor and Mrs. Roseline Nwakalor, married to Mr Richard A. U. Bello.

    Shimite Love attended Air Force Nursery School, Legico, Victoria Island between 1979 to 1981.

    She attended the Air Force Primary and Secondary School both in Ikeja between 1981 to 1986 and 1986 to 1990, respectively, and later obtained her SSCE from Air Force Secondary School, Makurdi, in 1992.

    In her quest for more knowledge, she obtained her B.Sc in Political Science at the University of Ibadan in 1999 and served her NYSC immediately after.

    During her passing out parade in the year 2000, she was awarded a plaque of honor for her work in charity during her once-a-week Corpers’ Day (CD), especially regarding her activities with Modupe Cole Memorial Home for people living with Mental Disabilities.

    Mrs Shimite Love gathered so much working experience during her early years

    She worked with Clapper Board T.V., with Lagos Weekend  Television, between 1992 and 1994 on a teenage programme, Teeny Boppers, as a TV presenter.

    She also worked with her elder sister, Mrs. Agatha Amata, on the Inside-Out TV series throughout her University and NYSC years as programme Coordinator and Marketing Executive.

    She ran a traveling Agency, “Generations Travel Agency and  Tours,” between 2005 and 2012.

    She was also a contributing editor for travel and tourism with Daily Trust Newspaper, Leadership Newspaper, and African Travel Quarterly Magazine.

    She was an active member of the National Tour Operators of Nigeria (NATOP), the National Association of Travel Agencies (NANTA), the Federation of Tourism Association of Nigeria (FTAN), and the Association of Nigerian Journalists in Entertainment and Tourism (ANJET).

    Shimite later worked with grassroots women and youths in financial literacy, gender mainstreaming, and financial inclusion in the areas of Agriculture, Solid Minerals, ICT, and Agency Banking.

    She trained with CIBN, SMEDAN, and other DFID interventions to expand her knowledge base.

    She joined the Women in Public Management, Business and Administration (WIMBIZ), Rural Financing of Nigeria (RUFIN), the Association of Non-Bank Micro-Finance Institutions of Nigeria (ANMFIN), and the Chartered Institute of Commerce, among others.

    Her NGO, Quintessential Business Women Association (QBWA), has a United Nations Consultative Status and works with different UN organisations.

    The QBWA has partnered with CBN, BOI, BOA, NDDC, DFID, and USAID.

    Due to her diligence, Mrs Shimite Bello was appointed by the Delta State Government as the Executive Secretary of Delta Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency from 2015 – 2019.

    She was appointed in 2019 as the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Export Initiatives and the Coordinator UNIDO Centre.

    She also worked with the Delta Food Export Initiative, Job Creation Steering Committee, Agricultural Marketing Board, and Delta State Focal Person – the Federal Government Intervention: National Social Safety – Net programme ( SOCIAL INVESTMENT PROGRAMME) that oversees N-Power, Home Grown School Feeding Programme, GEEP, the Social Register and Cash Transfer.

    Mrs Shimite Love worked as a Technical Adviser on Business Ethics and Values under the Special Adviser to President Goodluck Jonathan on Ethics and Values, Mrs Sarah Jibrin.

    She also served on committees, including the Steering committee of USAID/NEXTT (Nigerian Expanded Trade & Transport) – LAKAJI Trade Corridor and the Agric – Business Development and is an active member for policy formulation and amendment for the National Assembly Business Environment Round-Table (NASSBER).

    Mrs Love was the Group President/CEO of Quintessential Group, a conglomerate of non-governmental organisations, a Social Business Enterprise, and a Limited Liability Company in the Agriculture and Solid Minerals sector of the economy.

    Mrs Love was also a media professional, producer, and presenter of ”African Pot” and ”African Pot Extra”, a highly regarded Television documentary that promotes Traditional  African Cuisine, Tourist attraction and culture, as well as investment opportunities in Africa.

    She also produced two recipes, “African Pot Recipe Book ” and “100% Nigerian”.

    She has infused her leadership quality with a thorough understanding of the African Rural Community, Rural Financing Strategies, and the African Marketplace.

    Mrs Shimite Love was renowned for her intricate knowledge of Micro Finance, MSME Development, Human Capital Development, Export, Financial Literacy Training, mentorship, Job and Wealth creation, through innovation in the agricultural and solid minerals value chain, utilising grassroots women and youth entrepreneurs as drivers of the process.

    Mrs Shimite Love was a multiple Award winner in Community Development, Microfinance, Youth and Women Development, Media, and Agricultural Development.

  • APC Extols Virtues of Chief Winifred Ekanem Oyo-Ita on Her Birthday

    APC Extols Virtues of Chief Winifred Ekanem Oyo-Ita on Her Birthday

    Chief Winifred Ekanem Oyo-Ita 

    By Anietie Akpan

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State has celebrated the former Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Chief Mrs. Winifred Ekanem Oyo-Ita on her birthday on Sunday, April 20.

    The APC State Chairman, Alphonsus Ogar Eba Esq. JP and the State Executive Committee members in a statement by the State Publicity Secretary, APC Hon. Emmanuel Edem Inyang JP, extolled her distinguished career as the former Head of the Civil Service of the Federation saying she showcased her “dedication to service, visionary leadership, and commitment to excellence in governance.

    “Under your leadership, the Nigerian Civil Service was transformed into a more effective and efficient institution, with policies that empowered civil servants and improved public sector performance across the country”.

    Eba said, “sa member of the Cross River State Government Policy Review Committee, your contributions have helped to shape the future of our state. Your strategic insights, wealth of experience, and commitment to the growth of our beloved state have been invaluable, ensuring that Cross River remains at the forefront of development and progress.

    “Beyond Civil service, you have had great impact on our party. Your advocacy for good governance, accountability, social justice and support for the growth and empowerment of women and youth within our party have been instrumental to the successes we have celebrated and for that, we are grateful”.

    While wishing her a Happy Birthday, the State Chairman said, “beyond your professional and political achievements, you are a loving mother, a dedicated wife, and a role model to many.

    “As you celebrate this special milestone today, may this new year of your life be filled with joy, fulfillment, and peace”.

  • President Tinubu Mourns Passing of His Holiness Pope Francis

    President Tinubu Mourns Passing of His Holiness Pope Francis

    His Holiness, Pope Francis.

    By Dianabasi Effiong

    President Bola Ahned Tinubu of Nigeria on Monday mourned with Christians and Catholic faithful worldwide, on the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis on Easter Monday at the Vatican.

    Tinubu also described the late Catholic Pontiff as a humble servant of God and tireless champion of the poor, in a message he personally signed.

    He stated, “Today, with a heavy heart, I join the Catholic faithful and Christians worldwide in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, a humble servant of God, tireless champion of the poor, and guiding light for millions. His passing, coming just after the celebration of Christ’s Resurrection, is a sacred return to his Maker at a time of renewed hope for Christians.

    “His Holiness served the Church and the Master of the Church until the end. In 2013, he stepped onto the global stage with a message of mercy, urging us to see the face of Christ in the marginalised, the refugees, the migrants, and the forgotten”.

    The Pope according to him, “challenged the powerful to act with justice, called nations to welcome the stranger, and reminded us that our common home—this Earth—is a gift we must protect for future generations.”

    Tinubu also stated that the late Pontiff was an instrument of peace who deeply embodied the message of Christ: love for God and love for humanity. In a time of division, he built bridges between faiths and the rich and the poor.

    “He was a steadfast advocate for the developing world, where he consistently spoke against economic injustice and ceaselessly prayed for peace and stability in troubled regions.

    “His encyclicals were not only doctrinal and seminal but also timely and relevant. Through his pastoral letters, the Pope offered spiritual clarity and hope in an increasingly complex world. He charted a path of renewal for all humanity through his words and deeds.

    “In my 2025 Easter Message, I joined the Christian faithful in thanksgiving for the convalescing Pontiff. I was happy to watch his appearance to deliver the traditional Easter Sunday blessing in St. Peter’s Basilica.

    “Alas, the Lord called him home a day after, making the world lose its most trenchant voice for justice and action against climate change. May the good Lord, whom he served with all his might, receive him into His eternal bosom”.

    He said, “as we mourn the late Pontiff, let us also celebrate his legacy. Let us honour him not with words alone but with action: by lifting those who are down, healing our communities, and defending the dignity of every person.

    “On behalf of the government and the people of Nigeria, I extend condolences to the Catholic Church, the global Catholic community, and the Christian faithful.

    “May God Almighty grant His beloved servant eternal rest,” Tinubu said.

    Recall the Vatican had announced that Pope Francis, 88, died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta.

    Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, announced the death of Pope Francis from the Casa Santa Marta at 9:45 a.m.

  • PSC Greets Christians at Easter

    PSC Greets Christians at Easter

    By Dianabasi Effiong

    The Chairman of the Police Service Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu (rtd), has extended warm Easter greetings to all Nigerians, including Staff of the Commission and members of the  Nigeria Police Force and their families.

    In a statement on Sunday, he said that the Easter season embodied the values of sacrifice, renewal, hope, and peace— “values that align closely with our commitment to fostering a disciplined, professional, and people-focused police force.”

    “As we commemorate this period of reflection and resurrection, I urge all police officers to continue to uphold the principles of integrity, fairness, and justice in the discharge of their duties.

    According to him, the Commission remains steadfast in its constitutional mandate of ensuring merit-based appointments, timely promotions, and accountability in discipline, aimed at strengthening public trust in our police institutions.

    “To all Nigerians, may this Easter bring renewed faith in our collective pursuit of peace, security, and national unity. Let us continue to support the ongoing reforms in the Nigeria Police Force and work together for a better and safer Nigeria.

    “Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful and blessed Easter celebration,” he said.

  • Obubra, Akamkpa Council Chairmen Felicitate Journalists, Akamkpa People at Easter

    Obubra, Akamkpa Council Chairmen Felicitate Journalists, Akamkpa People at Easter

    Chairman of Obubra LGA, Hon  Kingsley Arikpo (left) and Chairman of Akamkpa LGA, Hon. Felix Akposi .

    By Anietie Akpan

    In the spirit of Easter, the Chairmen of Obubra and Akamkpa Local Government Areas (LGAs) have charged both journalists and the people of Akamkpa to imbibe the virtues of Jesus Christ as they celebrate today.

    In a separate message, the Executive Chairman of Obubra LGA, Hon  Kingsley Arikpo aka Apollo, felicitated with all Members of the Fourth Estate of the Realm, wishing them good tidings as “we commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ on Easter”.

    The Chairman, whose Easter message was contained in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Ekong Okpa, sent his  greetings  with particular regards  to members of the Cross River State Council of the  Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) under the distinguished Chairmanship of  Comrade Archibong Bassey, the First Female Chairman.

    He extended his felicitation to members of the State Working Committee (SWC) of the Union, the esteemed College of Veterans, and all Chapels’ leadership of NUJ,  describing the media in Cross River as “a true vehicle to democracy”.

    He commended journalists as they always “thrive on truth in their balanced and unbiased reportage in very inflammable circumstances capable of blazing fire on our nacent grassroot democracy”.

    On his part, the Executive Chairman of Akamkpa LGA, Hon. Felix Akposi KSJI, called on the people of Akamkpa to embrace the true spirit of Easter as a season of salvific grace, sacrificial love, and renewed hope, saying the lessons of the resurrection should inspire greater synergy between leadership and the people.

    In his 2025 Easter message, released to some journalists by his Chief Press Secretary , Daniel Agbor, the Chairman who is a Knight of Saint Joseph (KSJ) said, “Easter reminds us that sacrifice is not loss, but love in its highest expression. As Christ laid down His life for mankind, so too must leaders commit to selfless service and citizens embrace unity for the common good.”

    Hon. Akposi noted that under his administration, Akamkpa has witnessed a responsive approach to the yearnings of the people through deliberate policies and people-oriented programmes.

    “Hope is not just a feeling—it is a result of visible effort. We have shown that when leadership listens, and the people believe, transformation is inevitable,” he affirmed.

    Touching on salvific grace, the Chairman emphasised that leadership is a divine privilege to effect change, saying , “Grace isn’t passive. It demands that those entrusted with power act with compassion, integrity, and purpose. In Akamkpa, we view public office as a sacred trust to uplift lives.”

    He called for continued collaboration and trust between the government and the governed noting that “the journey to development requires that we walk hand in hand. We must sacrifice narrow interests for a greater future—just as Easter teaches us to trade despair for the victory of hope”..

    While acknowledging the economic and social challenges facing the people, Hon. Akposi reiterated his commitment to ensuring that needs are not only recognised but attended to with urgency and empathy.

    “We have not only heard the people—we have moved to act. From infrastructure to youth empowerment, our goal is clear: to leave Akamkpa better than we met it”, he said and urged the citizens to use the Easter period to reflect on the values of humility, love, and shared purpose, assuring them that his administration remains committed to inclusive growth and community development.

  • Easter : Betta Edu Tasks Christians on Virtues of Jesus Christ

    Easter : Betta Edu Tasks Christians on Virtues of Jesus Christ

    Dr. Betta Edu.

    By Anietie Akpan

    As Christians all over the world celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the immediate past Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu has charged Christians to reflect deeply on the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and the central theme of Easter: love and sacrifice.

    Edu also pleaded with Nigerians to be steadfast in their  support for Tinubu administration as the president works hard to pull the country from the myriad of challenges it faces.

    In her Easter message, which she personally signed, Dr. Edu said that, “without deep reflection on what Easter represents, the celebration will only  amount to a mere hollow ritual”.

    According to her, the death of Christ represents love and sacrifice and His resurrection, hope and and triumph of light over darkness.

    She urged Christians to imbibe the exemplary life of love, selflessness, sacrifice, and forgiveness, which Christ demonstrated in His death, burial, and resurrection for the redemption of mankind.

    “As Christians, Easter presents us the opportunity for a deep reflection, a time to carry out an ecclesiastical soul-searching to embody that which Christ came and died for.

    “Easter  is both significant and sobering in the sense that it reminds us of all of the triumphs of good over evil, light over darkness, and love and compassion over hate. These were the cardinal planks of Christ’s teachings while on earth.

    “His death and resurrection brought a refreshing dawn for humanity and redefined the virtues of selflessness, love, sacrifice and forgiveness,” she said.

    “Just as Christ showed unconditional love and made sacrifices for humanity, let us, as patriotic Nigerians put our country first at all times knowing that the government of President Bola Tinubu is working hard to pull Nigeria from the economic doldrums in line with his Renewed Hope Agenda”,  Edu stressed.