Some Christians in Lagos on Wednesday prayed for a better Nigeria as they celebrated Ash Wednesday to mark the commencement of the 40-day Lenten season.

A monitor of some churches on Wednesday in Lagos State showed that many Christians from Catholic and Anglican denominations turned out for the event in their various churches.

Some of them said during interviews that they prayed fervently for a better Nigeria.

Chairman, Justice Development and Peace Commission, Satellite Deanery, Lagos State, Onyema Onyekakeya, said that such prayers had helped to preserve the country.

Mr Onyekakeya described prayer as a strong spiritual instrument for positive change.

He urged Nigerians not to relent in praying for the country.

He said, “In various churches today, supplications were rendered to God to uplift the country.’’

According to him, the Lenten season is a period of sober reflection and seeking of divine grace.

Director, Social Communications, Lagos Catholic Archdiocese, Anthony Godono, said that praying for Nigeria had been  his personal attitude and a culture of the church.

He said, “The church will continue to offer prayers for the country with a view to making it peaceful and stable to encourage development.’’

President, Catholic Women Organisation of Saint Charles Church, Olodi Apapa, Lovelyn Ndukauba, said that members of the organisation dedicated the Lenten period for prayers for Nigeria.

Ms Ndukauba stated, “In times of crisis, women are worse hit. Therefore, our prayer is for peace and harmony, economic growth and security of lives and property.’’

The Lenten season is characterised by prayers, fasting, repentance and almsgiving.

During the Ash Wednesday church services, clergymen put ashes on the foreheads of members of their congregations.

 (NAN)