The Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, has urged Nigerians to reject vengeance, hatred and animosity and embrace forgiveness, reconciliation and peaceful coexistence.

Kaigama made the call through the National Chaplain of the Pious Union of Saint Rita of Cascia, Rev. Fr. Richard Igyor, who represented him at the union's 2026 National Feast Celebration in Abuja.

The celebration, themed “Cultivating Peace, Faith and Hope: Emulating Saint Rita's Virtues,” attracted more than 1,000 devotees from across the country.

The Archbishop said the virtues associated with Saint Rita, particularly forgiveness, perseverance, faith and commitment to peace, remained relevant to Nigeria amid insecurity, political tensions and social divisions.

He urged Nigerians to go beyond seeking miracles and develop a deeper relationship with God that would influence how they treat others and contribute to society.

Representing Kaigama, Igyor said genuine devotion to saints should not be measured by the favours devotees expect from prayers, but by their willingness to emulate the virtues of the saints.

He urged Nigerians to allow peace, love, forgiveness and reconciliation to guide their conduct at home, in workplaces, communities and positions of leadership.

The Prior General of the Pious Union of Saint Rita of Cascia, Nigeria, Cecilia Oyakhire, also called on women to play a greater role in promoting peace and strong moral values within their families and communities.

She described women as important agents of nation-building and said the life of Saint Rita should inspire them to raise children who value peaceful coexistence and compassion.

The Abuja Archdiocese National Grand Patron and former Auditor-General of the Federation, Dr Ukura Samuel, urged political and national leaders to emulate Saint Rita's spirit of forgiveness and selfless service.

He said leaders who embraced forgiveness and fairness would be less likely to victimise political opponents, subordinates or other members of society.

The Abuja Archdiocesan Coordinator, Bro. Celestine Makwe, also urged Nigerians to embrace reconciliation and tolerance, warning that vengeance, enmity and animosity could deepen divisions and hinder national development.