Palm Sunday: Ilorin Christians Urged to Embrace Humility and National Unity
Christians in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, joined their counterparts across the globe on Sunday to commemorate Palm Sunday, marking the triumphant entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem.
Waving palm fronds and singing hosanna choruses, thousands of worshippers marched in a colorful procession through major roads in the city.
The celebration began around 8:45 a.m. at Saint Barnabas Cathedral, Sabo-Oke, and lasted for over four hours. The faithful walked through Muritala Road, Maraba, Amilegbe, Ipata, Opo-Malu, Emir’s Road, Taiwo Road, Unity Road, and Post Office before returning to the cathedral for final prayers and benediction.
A separate group of Christians started their procession at First Baptist Church, Surulere, passing through the State General Hospital and Upper Taiwo Road before merging with others at Unity Junction.
Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kwara State, Bishop Sunday Adewole, used the occasion to call for humility, love, and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians. “Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a colt to show humility. We must reflect this in our own lives by loving others and living in peace,” he said.
Bishop Adewole also urged citizens to renew their commitment to national growth and spiritual responsibility. “This is a time for us to serve God sincerely and contribute positively to our nation,” he added.
Speaking in the same vein, the CAN Vice Chairman, Pastor Ademola Popoola, reminded the faithful of Christ’s sacrifice. “Jesus died to save mankind from eternal condemnation. We must move closer to God in humility and holiness,” he advised.
Deaconess Funke Olatunji echoed similar sentiments, stressing the importance of emulating Christ’s humility for the country’s unity and progress.
Governor AbdulRahman AAbdulRazaq in his goodwill message delivered by his Special Adviser on Christian Religious Matters, Reverend Timothy Oluwagbemiga Akangbe, urged Nigerians to support the government through prayers and cooperation.
He reiterated the state government’s commitment to easing the burdens of the people.
Also lending his voice, Reverend Father Ralph Ajewole of the Radio Kwara Christian Fellowship encouraged Christians to abandon old lifestyles and walk in humility like Christ.
“Let your life be a reflection of peace and a source of positive change to others,” he said.
Reverend Bolaji Akinyemi and Evangelist Timothy Opoola also appealed to citizens to love one another and work for peace and unity in the country.
As the nation reflects on the essence of Palm Sunday, the recurring message from Ilorin is clear: humility, love, and unity are key to personal transformation and national development.
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