Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has urged residents of the state to embrace the lessons of the Lenten season by showing love, gratitude, tolerance and commitment to peaceful coexistence.
Mr Sanwo-Olu gave the advice in his Easter message to Lagos State residents.
The message was issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, on Saturday.
The governor congratulated Christians on the successful completion of their 40-day Lenten fast.
The governor said the season of Lent, which came shortly after Ramadan, offered Nigerians a unique opportunity for reflection, sacrifice, spiritual renewal and appreciation of God’s blessings.
He said, “As we come to the end of the Lenten season and enter the Easter celebration, it is my wish that all the lessons learnt during the period of fasting will continue to reflect in our daily lives.”
He described the period as one that should inspire Nigerians to become more compassionate, united and committed to common good.
The governor stated, “Lent is a season of denial, reflection and gratitude. It is also a season that reminds us to be our brother’s keeper, to give, to love our neighbours and to build a community that works for everyone.”
Mr Sanwo-Olu said that Nigerians, irrespective of religious affiliations, should continue to live together in peace.
He added, “We may be of different faiths, but at the end of the day, we are all one people under the Almighty. This season should strengthen our resolve to live together as brothers and sisters.”
Mr Sanwo-Olu praised President Bola Tinubu for his ‘steady leadership.’
He said there were visible signs of economic recovery despite global pressures and local challenges.
He stated, “As tough as things may appear, especially in the area of security, the President has shown leadership and credibility. We have seen strength in the capital market, growth in the financial sector, reduction in food prices, economic growth and a month-on-month decline in inflation over the past year.
“These are strong economic indicators that suggest that we are gradually moving out of the most difficult phase of the economic challenge. Even with global disruptions that have affected prices of commodities, we have managed ourselves responsibly and we have not seen panic situations in our fuel stations.”
Mr Sanwo-Olu, however, expressed concern about the security situation in some parts of the country, particularly the killings in Plateau State and some other states.
He noted, “Our hearts go out to the families of citizens who are being killed needlessly in Plateau State and other parts of the country. Mr President has given his commitment to confront the situation frontally, and we can only continue to wish him well and support all efforts to restore peace.”
The governor said that Lagos State remained safe and secure, but urged the residents to remain vigilant and security conscious.
He advised Lagos residents to celebrate Easter responsibly.
“Lagos is a big state, a wonderful place and, indeed, an incredible home for all of us. I wish everyone the very best this Easter season,” he said.
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