Valentine: Bishop urges Nigerians to show goodwill, love

The Catholic Bishop of Minna Diocese, Martins Uzoukwu has advised Nigerians to show goodwill and love during the Valentine Day Celebration.

The bishop said this while speaking with Newsverge shortly after the Church’s Sunday Morning Service in Minna.

He urged the people to demonstrate love toward their neighbours irrespective of religious, ethnic and political leanings.

“Love is what is required for us to build a strong nation. We should also remember to protect our common human heritage.

“I will also advise our youths to shun excessive consumption of alcohol to mark the day. Valentine’s Day should not be used to perpetrate vices,’’ he said.

Uzoukwu also said it was about time the public fervently prayed for sound health for the country’s political leaders.

“Love your leaders, for that is the only way they can be at peace with themselves and the citizenry,’’ he said.

Newsverge reports that each year on Feb.14, many people exchange cards, candy, gifts or flowers with their special “valentine.”

Valentine’s Day, also called the day of romance is named after a Christian martyr and dates back to the 5th century, but has origins in the Roman holiday Lupercalia.