A female student of Taraba State University, Endurance Dennis, has publicly apologized to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the wider Christian community following a viral controversy over her outfit during the university’s costume day celebration.

The student, whose photos circulated widely online, sparked backlash after she was seen wearing a costume that resembled that of a Catholic nun — a depiction many Christians described as “offensive” and “disrespectful” to sacred symbols of the faith.

In a heartfelt statement shared via Facebook, Endurance admitted her actions were misguided, explaining that she had initially viewed the act as “harmless fun” without realizing the religious implications of her choice.

“I was one of the students whose outfit resembling that of a nun has caused pain and anger to many people, especially to the Christian community,” she wrote.
“At the time, I honestly saw it as a harmless form of fun, without thinking deeply about how it might be disrespectful to the Christian faith and sacred symbols. However, seeing the reactions and understanding the spiritual and emotional significance of those garments, I now realize that what I did was wrong and insensitive.”

She further extended her apologies to CAN, the university chaplaincy, and the institution’s management, emphasizing that her intention was never to mock or insult any religion.

“I have learnt a very important lesson about the need to respect all faiths, beliefs, and sacred representations whether in public or private,” she added.
“To everyone who corrected me in love rather than condemnation, thank you. Going forward, I promise to be more sensitive, respectful, and thoughtful in all my actions.”

💬 Opinion: A Lesson in Sensitivity and Growth

Endurance’s apology, though prompted by public criticism, reflects something that is often missing in today’s social climate — accountability and humility.

In a world where social media outrage often meets defensiveness, her willingness to acknowledge her mistake and make amends publicly is commendable. It shows emotional maturity and respect for religious diversity — qualities every young person in a pluralistic society should aspire to.

At the same time, this incident highlights a deeper cultural issue within Nigerian universities and youth spaces: the need for awareness and education on religious and cultural sensitivity. Costume events, while meant for fun and expression, must also be guided by respect for sacred symbols that hold deep meaning for others.

Mistakes, when met with genuine remorse and reflection, can become powerful teachers. Endurance’s experience serves as a reminder that freedom of expression must coexist with responsibility — and that maturity is not in perfection, but in learning from missteps.

In the end, her words — “I promise to be more sensitive and respectful going forward” — may echo far beyond her campus, offering a timely call for empathy in a society where faith and identity remain deeply intertwined.