By Mercy Aikoye
Stakeholders from the National Assembly, security sector, and media came together at the 2025 Easter Cantata Concert, organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council. The event emphasized the importance of unity, discipline, and responsible journalism in advancing Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The theme, “Renewal and Hope: Harnessing the Transformative Power of Unity and Progress,” brought together journalists, security personnel, lawmakers, and civil society leaders for a reflective celebration marked by music, messages of encouragement, and nationalistic fervor.
Elder Leke Abejide, Chairman of the House Committee on Customs and Excise, stressed the need for courageous and visionary leadership in navigating difficult reforms aimed at economic recovery and national development. He noted that leaders must be willing to make tough decisions, even if they produce bitter experiences initially, but ultimately lead to a glorious end. Abejide praised the Tinubu administration for its bold decisions, including the fuel subsidy removal, and encouraged Nigerians to adopt a mindset of accountability and action.
Abejide commended the NUJ for its watchdog role and encouraged journalists to support the Renewed Hope Agenda. He emphasized that the NUJ has a major role to play in actualizing this agenda, which aims to reposition Nigeria as a global investment hub. He concluded with a message of faith and optimism, citing Nelson Mandela’s quote, “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.”
FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Ajao Adewale, charged journalists to practice responsible and developmental journalism, noting that the media holds immense power to either build or divide a nation. He urged journalists to use their freedom judiciously, prioritizing national development and harmony. Adewale acknowledged the importance of press freedom but emphasized the need to use it to build, not destroy.
The National President of the NUJ, Alhaji AlHassan Abdullahi, called on journalists to imbibe the spirit of togetherness, forgiveness, and prioritize national interest and security in their reportage. He urged journalists to promote national development and harmony, emphasizing that Nigeria is their only nation.
Comrade Grace Ike, Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, reflected on the significance of Easter and the concert’s theme, calling for renewed commitment to nation-building. She highlighted the role of journalism in shaping public discourse and transforming societies by highlighting truths, promoting understanding, and advocating for justice.
The Easter Cantata Concert featured musical performances, prayer sessions, and reflections from participants, reinforcing the message that unity and hope remain the pillars of a thriving nation. Speakers emphasized the importance of collective effort in building a brighter future for Nigeria, marked by unity, hope, and continuous renewal.
The event concluded with a call to action, urging Nigerians to work together towards a common goal of national development and progress. By prioritizing unity, responsible leadership, and developmental journalism, Nigerians can build a brighter future and achieve the Renewed Hope Agenda’s objectives.
