Rev. Frederick Onoja, Bishop of the Methodist Diocese of Kubwa, has urged Nigerians to look to God as the ultimate source of hope amid the country’s insecurity and economic difficulties.
Speaking on Sunday at the 2025 Mega Easter Hymns Concert in Abuja, Onoja called for stronger government intervention to tackle the rising cases of kidnapping and violence.
“We encourage Nigerians to remain focused, look up to God, and trust in Him, the source of eternal light. There will be joy again in Nigeria, and the people will rejoice once more,” he said.
“Let our hope rest in God. Let us do what is right, shun evil, and uphold good conduct. God will visit us again, and our hope will be renewed.
“The government must rise to its responsibility of securing lives and protecting property. The menace of kidnapping and killings must be brought to an end”.
He noted that the Easter celebration underscored the transformative power of music in worship and healing.
He further advocated for greater collaboration between religious institutions and the government to address societal challenges.
“Music and Easter are inseparable. Music is medicine for the soul. It brings healing, joy, peace, and salvation.
“The government should engage religious leaders in dialogue and collaboration. With government support, the Church can help raise awareness and tackle various societal issues,” he added.
Bishop Onoja also emphasised the role Easter programmes play in shaping social values and behaviours.
“Participating in programmes like this helps us stay focused. We carry with us the Easter message, that good triumphs over evil and through this, we can positively influence society”.
Sir Uwem Useh, the Church’s Director of Music, said the Easter celebration featured a special hymn festival, including the release of an album comprising mostly Nigerian-composed hymns.
“Ten of the thirteen hymns are Nigerian compositions, now available on digital platforms worldwide,” he stated.
He noted the role of Christian music in restoring hope and encouraged musicians to use their talents to uplift the nation.
“There is power in singing. The Spirit of God, through music, can help heal minds troubled by the challenges facing Nigeria,” he added.
Also speaking, Sir Mark Ndukwe, a member of the church, reaffirmed the Methodist Church’s strong musical heritage rooted in the hymns of its founders, John and Charles Wesley.
“The Methodist Church was born in song, and music remains an essential part of our heritage,” he said.
He added that hymns invite God’s transformative power and open the door to countless possibilities.
(NAN)
