A Catholic priest has called on Nigerians not to lose hope despite the country’s growing economic and security problems as they observe the 2026 Lent.
The call was made by Fr. Dominic Eshikena O.P., the Prior Provincial of the Dominican Province of St. Joseph the Worker in Nigeria and Ghana, in a Lenten message titled “A Message of Hope in Challenging Times.”
In the message, Fr. Eshikena noted that Nigeria is facing serious hardship, including hunger, insecurity and displacement.
He pointed out that millions of Nigerians are struggling to find food, noting that “nearly 6 million people in the Northeast alone require urgent humanitarian aid.”
He also referenced the country's struggles with “economic hardship, persistent insecurity, and the humanitarian crisis” that has forced many people from their homes, but urged Nigerians not to give up.
“Hope is real,” he said, adding that Lent should not be a time to escape from the country’s problems but a time to prepare to change them.
Fr. Eshikena explained that Lent, which lasts 40 days, is a period for prayer, fasting and helping others.
He urged Nigerians to pray for leaders at all levels and to reject corruption and abuse of office.
He also asked people to remember those who are hungry when they fast.
He said Nigerians should use what they save from fasting to help vulnerable people, including women, children and displaced families.
Fr. Eshikena said national renewal must begin from families and individuals, adding that Nigeria can still experience “a new springtime of life, liberty, and human flourishing” if citizens act with conscience and compassion.
