Easter Day

Easter is essentially the observance of the resurrection of Jesus Christ in the Christian faith. Rooted in history, many Christians perceive it as a time of remembrance, reflection, and celebration. The observance encompasses important aspects such as Good Friday and Easter Sunday, which mark Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection respectively. Several traditions and customs associated with Easter, such as the use of eggs and candles, represent new life and the light of Christ respectively, making this period highly symbolic and significant for followers of Christianity.

In Nigeria, with a portion of the population being Christian, Easter plays a crucial role. The observance of Easter, although universal, has a touch of local flavour in its Nigerian context. Predating the colonial period, Christianity was introduced to Nigeria in the 15th Century, making Easter observance an inherent part of Nigeria's religious culture. It is not just a religious observance but a social one as well, as it is often a time of reunion for family members and loved ones, reflecting the deeply communal character of Nigerian society.

Easter in Nigeria usually begins with Ash Wednesday, marking the commencement of the Lenten period of fasting and prayer. This culminates in a week-long observance known as the Holy Week which includes Palm Sunday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday. During this period, special services and gatherings are conducted across Nigerian churches. The use of palm fronds on Palm Sunday, processions on Good Friday, and joyful celebrations on Easter Sunday testify to the centrality of Easter in Nigeria's religious calendar. Unlike some other countries, the date of Easter in Nigeria consistently follows the global Christian calendar, falling on the first Sunday after the full moon following the March equinox.