Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Customs and Excise, Hon. Leke Abejide, had urged Nigerians not to despair but to embrace the current reforms by the present administration with faith, courage and a collective sense of responsibility.
The lawmaker who represents Yagba Federal Constituency of Kogi State in the House, said the country has to endure the bitter experiences of reform and discipline if it is to emerge stronger and more prosperous.
Speaking at the 2025 Easter Cantata Concert organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, Abejide said
“The Renewed Hope Agenda is not just a policy framework; it is a statement of commitment — a covenant between leadership and the people. Great countries passed through the furnace before becoming refined gold. Nigeria must not fear temporary hardship if the end will be glorious,” he said.
Held under the theme “Renewal and Hope: Harnessing the Transformative Power of Unity and Progress,” the Cantata was both spiritual and civic, drawing political leaders, security officials, journalists, and other stakeholders into a shared reflection on national development.
Abejide said the media, as the fourth estate of the realm, must play an integral role in helping the public make sense of difficult reforms and in projecting a vision of unity and progress.
“We are here to project the certainty of the Renewed Hope vision. But to achieve it, we need unity of purpose — from local institutions to the global community,” he stated.
While acknowledging that the road ahead remains tough, the lawmaker likened Nigeria’s current stage to the taste of the bitter leaf: initially unpleasant but ultimately sweet.
He praised the courage of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for initiating bold reforms, such as the removal of fuel subsidies, noting that although painful, such steps are necessary to rescue the economy.
“Naming the problem is the beginning of healing,” Abejide said. “We must take responsibility for change, discipline ourselves, and seek help from those willing to build, not destroy.”
He encouraged citizens not to give in to despair or depression, especially those in underdeveloped communities who feel let down by democracy.
“You must stand tall, even when discouraged. Do the unthinkable. Step out in faith, even when the world criticizes you,” he said.
Abejide called on all Nigerians to meditate on the message of Easter — the resurrection of Christ as a symbol of renewed hope — and apply it to the nation’s journey toward recovery.
“Your cooperation and purposeful zeal will help actualise the best for the greatest number. “Happy Easter, and may the resurrection power birth a greater tomorrow for Nigeria,” he said.
The Commissioner of Police for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), CP Ajao Adewale, at the event called on journalists to embrace responsible and developmental journalism, emphasizing that the media plays a critical role in national peace, unity, and progress.
Adewale praised journalists for their work in keeping the public informed and enlightened, while also acknowledging the risks associated with their profession.
“The people that keep us informed, the people that enlighten us, we salute you. We understand the danger your job entails. It is as challenging as the work of security personnel. Sometimes, you hold information that could help the nation but may also threaten certain interests. That makes you vulnerable,” he said.
The Easter Cantata Concert, themed “Renewal and Hope: Harnessing the Transformative Power of Unity and Progress,” brought together members of the press, security officials, and other stakeholders in a celebration marked by music, reflection, and renewed calls for national development.
The police commissioner emphasized the power of information, noting that it can either build or break a nation depending on how it is used.
He charged the media to always set a positive agenda for the country.
“Information is power. It can be used positively or negatively. One sentence, just a phrase, can either create peace or ignite conflict. That is why I appeal to you: let us continue to practice responsible, responsive journalism, the kind that is proactive and developmental,” he said.
According to Adewale, responsible journalism is essential in moving the country forward. He urged journalists not to lose sight of their duty to national unity, even as they uphold press freedom.
“Yes, freedom of speech is guaranteed by the Constitution. But we must use that freedom to build, not destroy. Whether you’re pushing the pen, printing the news, or pulling the trigger, it must be for the development of the nation,” he stated.
The police commissioner also reminded attendees that Nigeria is the only place where its citizens can truly belong, stressing the importance of patriotism.
“Any other place we go, we are not first-class citizens. But here, this is our home. This is where we are first-class citizens. So let us do everything within our power, our intellect, and our resources to develop it,” he said.
CP Adewale assured the media of continued support from the police and encouraged ongoing collaboration for national good.
“We will continue to do our best to cooperate with you. Let us collectively work together for the greater height of this great nation called Nigeria.”
The National President of the NUJ, Alhaji AlHassan Abdullahi called on journalists to imbibe the spirit of togetherness, forgiveness and urged them to have national interest and security at the back of their mind in their reportage as well as promotion national development and harmony.
He said, “As journalists, let’s imbibe the spirit of forgiveness. Let us use this opportunity to pray for our nation. Let’s prioritize national interest and national security. Nigeria is our only nation.”
In her welcome address, the Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, underscored the importance of unity and progress in building a stronger Nigeria. She said the themes of renewal and hope were not merely spiritual ideals but “powerful tools for societal transformation.”
“In a world where unity and progress are often challenged by discord and stagnation, it is crucial that we harness these values to foster a better future,” she stated.
Comrade Ike described unity as “the foundation upon which progress is built,” stressing that it serves as the glue that binds citizens together in the face of challenges. She urged journalists to use their platforms to promote cohesion by sharing stories that “inspire, educate, and unite our communities.”
Speaking on the transformative power of journalism, she said the profession holds the potential to “highlight truths, promote understanding, and advocate for justice.”
She called on members of the press to continue upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in order to foster a culture of peace, tolerance, and mutual respect.
“As we celebrate Easter, let us renew our commitment to these values. Let us strive to create a society where every individual feels valued, heard, and empowered to contribute to our collective progress,” she said.
She concluded with a message of optimism, urging collective action for national development.
“Together, we can build a brighter future for Nigeria, one that is marked by unity, hope, and continuous renewal. God bless us all,” she said.
The Easter Cantata Concert featured musical performances and messages of hope, resonating with the event’s theme of national renewal through unity and shared purpose.
The event brought together media practitioners, religious and community leaders, and government representatives in a show of solidarity and shared responsibility for national rebirth.
