13th April , 2025
Taiwo Ogunniyi
Christians in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, joined their counterparts across the globe to commemorate Palm Sunday with a massive procession through major streets, marking the triumphant entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem.
The colourful procession, which began around 8:45 a.m. from Saint Barnabas Cathedral, Sabo-Oke, Ilorin, saw thousands of Christians waving palm fronds, singing, dancing and chanting “Hosanna” in celebration of Christ’s entry over two thousand years ago.
The faithful marched through key routes including Muritala Road, Maraba, Amilegbe, Ipata, Opo-Malu, parts of Emir’s Road, Taiwo Road, Unity Road, and Post Office, before returning to the cathedral for benediction.
Another group of Christians started their walk from First Baptist Church, Surulere, and converged with others at Unity Junction to complete the symbolic journey.
Speaking with journalists during the procession, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kwara State, Bishop Sunday Adewole, urged Christians to follow the example of Jesus Christ, who entered Jerusalem in humility.
He called on Nigerians to embrace peace and renew their commitment to godliness and responsible citizenship.
“We must love one another, just as Christ loved us. Palm Sunday is a reminder of humility and sacrifice. Let us shun pride and embrace peace in our communities,” Bishop Adewole said.
The State Vice Chairman of CAN, Pastor Ademola Popoola, echoed the message of salvation, urging Christians to turn away from sin and draw closer to God in holiness.
Deaconess Funke Olatunji also called on Nigerians to embody Christ’s humility as a path to national progress and unity.
Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, in his goodwill message delivered by his Senior Special Adviser on Religious Matters (Christian), Reverend Timothy Oluwagbemiga Akangbe, charged Nigerians to remain united and support the government with prayers for continued peace and development.
“The government is committed to making life better for all. We urge citizens to continue to pray and support our administration for a prosperous Kwara State and Nigeria at large,” he stated.
Other clerics, including Reverend Father Ralph Ajewole, Reverend Bolaji Akinyemi, and Evangelist Timothy Opoola, emphasized humility, love, repentance, and peaceful coexistence as key lessons from Palm Sunday.
They encouraged Christians to reflect Christ’s light in their daily lives and remain agents of peace and transformation in the nation.
The procession ended on a joyful note, with participants praying for a peaceful Nigeria and stronger bonds of unity among its people.
