As Christians across the world mark the 2026 Easter celebration, the Acting Governor of the Ministers of Christian Gospel Artists Association (MOCGAA), also known as CMAN, Oyo State Chapter, Evangelist Tope Olaniyan (Liberator), has urged Nigerians to embrace unity and peaceful coexistence as pathways to overcoming the nation’s challenges.
Olaniyan made the call during his keynote address at the 2026 Easter Music Cantata hosted by the Ogbomoso Zone of the association, held on Sunday at the Methodist Church Nigeria, Obada Circuit, Ogbomoso.
The event attracted notable gospel ministers, including Apostle Dr. J.O. Afolabi (Okoto Jesu), Chief Rev. Remi Aderoju, who is the Grand Patron of the association, and other dignitaries from across Oyo State.
Speaking on the theme of resurrection, the MOCGAA Acting Governor described music as a divine instrument for healing and national transformation. He noted that Easter symbolizes victory and renewal, stressing that just as the stone was rolled away from the tomb of Christ, Nigeria can overcome its socio-economic and security challenges through faith and unity.
“Easter is the ultimate new song of victory. Through purposeful worship and prophetic praise, the stones of insecurity, economic hardship, and division in our nation will be rolled away,” he said.
Olaniyan commended the Ogbomoso Zone for successfully organizing the cantata, describing the venue as a “sanctuary of hope” and a symbol of unity, reflected in the harmonious blend of voices in the choir.
Addressing gospel artists, he emphasized their role beyond entertainment, urging them to serve as agents of moral rebirth and societal healing.
“As Gospel Ministers under MOCGAA/CMAN, we are the Levites of this generation. Our music must heal the brokenhearted and also speak truth to power by promoting righteousness in governance and citizenship,” he added.
He further highlighted the importance of the creative sector, calling for greater recognition and support for gospel artists as contributors to the state’s economy and custodians of moral values.
The event featured a grand choral performance, including a rendition of Olaniyan’s composition, “Mo Ti Segun Aiye (I Have Conquered the World)”, performed by the combined Obada mass choir.
In his closing remarks, Olaniyan expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, declaring that the message of Easter remains a beacon of hope.
“Nigeria’s victory is certain. The resurrection is proof that no matter how long the night lasts, the morning of joy will surely come,” he said.
The Easter cantata ended on a note of praise, reflection, and renewed commitment to national unity and spiritual growth.
