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Tag: CAN

  • CAN mourns Imam who saved 262 Christians during 2018 killings

    CAN mourns Imam who saved 262 Christians during 2018 killings

    The leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on Saturday commended the bravery of late Imam Abubakar Abdullahi who saved 262 Christians during a violent massacre in 2018 in Plateau. 

    CAN hailed Abdullahi for standing firmly on the side of humanity when it mattered most. 

    While paying tribute to whom it described as an extraordinary religious leader whose life and actions remain a profound testimony to courage, compassion, and our shared humanity, CAN said his death his painful. 

    Abdullahi died at 92.

    A statement by the President of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, reads: “The late Imam Abubakar Abdullahi will forever be remembered for his rare moral bravery and selflessness at a time of grave danger. By choosing to protect innocent lives at great personal risk, he saved 262 Christians during a violent massacre in 2018.

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    “His actions transcended religious boundaries and powerfully affirmed that the sanctity of human life is sacred above all else.

    “This singular act of heroism did more than save lives. It reinforced hope, strengthened interfaith harmony, and reminded our nation that peace is possible when conscience, love, and faith guide our actions. In a world often divided by suspicion and hatred, the Imam stood as a bridge-builder and a living symbol of what true religion represents.

    “It was in recognition of this exceptional service to humanity that CAN honoured him with an award during its Sapphire Anniversary celebrations in 2021. While plaques may fade with time, his legacy will endure as a shining example for religious leaders, communities, and generations to come.

    “CAN believes that such courage deserves not only remembrance but amplification. We therefore call for continued honour to his memory, including engagement with his family and broad public recognition of his noble sacrifice, so that his story may inspire unity, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence across our nation.

    “As we mourn his passing, we celebrate a life well lived in service to God and humanity. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, his community, and all who were touched by his remarkable example. May his legacy continue to speak where words fall short”.

  • CAN backs FG’s tax reform policy 

    CAN backs FG’s tax reform policy 

    … calls for fairness, restraint 

    … urges govt to tackle insecurity 

    Following the commencement of the tax reform policy, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on Thursday advised the federal government to ensure wisdom, fairness, and restraint.

    Economic decisions, CAN said must not, “deepen hardship for those already struggling”.

    CAN president, Archbishop Daniel Okoh in his new year message, advised that, “Small businesses, low-income earners, and rural communities require protection and deliberate support if recovery is to be meaningful and inclusive.”

    Okoh pleaded with government to continue to tackle insecurity and reduce it to the bearest minimum. 

    He said, “We acknowledge God’s mercy in preserving lives and sustaining our nation through another year marked by serious trials and testing moments.

    “The year behind us was a difficult one for many Nigerians. Economic hardship, rising living costs, insecurity, and uncertainty placed enormous strain on families and communities. These realities cannot be ignored or explained away. The quiet endurance of our people is not a sign that all is well; rather, it is a reminder of how much healing, relief, and justice our nation still needs.

    “As fiscal, tax, and other policy reforms continue, CAN calls for wisdom, fairness, and restraint. As the nation continues to speak about reforms, recovery, and growth, CAN affirms that progress must translate into lived realities. Economic advancement must be evident in the daily lives of citizens—when food is affordable, healthcare is accessible, education is attainable, and meaningful work is available. Development that does not touch ordinary lives remains incomplete.

    “Nigeria must become a place where families live with dignity, young people can plan for the future with confidence, and communities are no longer overwhelmed by fear. Public policies and leadership decisions must consistently reflect compassion, responsibility, and a genuine commitment to the common good, especially towards the poor and the vulnerable.

    “The persistence of insecurity across the country remains a grave national concern. Terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and violent crime have uprooted communities and shattered lives. This reality demands decisive and sustained action. We hope that the government will deliver on its promises to reduce insecurity to the lowest levels in this new year.

    “Furthermore, government at all levels must urgently present a clear, comprehensive, and time-bound plan for the resettlement of communities displaced for prolonged periods by violence and insecurity. It is unjust and unacceptable that citizens should remain indefinitely uprooted from their ancestral lands, homes, and livelihoods. Beyond temporary relief, the nation must pursue restoration. Security must be guaranteed, homes and infrastructure rebuilt, and displaced persons enabled to return safely and with dignity. A nation cannot claim healing while entire communities remain unsettled.

    Okoh went further that Nigeria’s challenges are not only economic or structural, but also moral, adding that corruption, injustice, and division continue to weaken trust and erode national conscience.

    He said urged that leadership at all levels must be guided by integrity, accountability, and a sincere commitment to serve rather than dominate. 

    “National renewal requires moral courage as much as technical competence. As the Church, we reaffirm our commitment to stand with the people, to speak truth with love, and to uphold hope in difficult times. We declare that Nigeria is not without a future. We affirm that justice, peace, and restoration are possible when leadership is responsible and citizens remain committed to righteousness and unity. As we journey through 2026, we look forward with sober hope, trusting that our nation can yet rise into better days marked by healing, stability, and shared progress”, Okoh added. 

  • Community, state police imminent, President tells CAN

    Community, state police imminent, President tells CAN

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerians that community and state policing will soon become a reality once the National Assembly completes the required legislative inputs, saying the move will mark a decisive shift in the country’s security approach.

    The President gave the assurance yesterday while receiving a delegation of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), led by its President, Daniel Okoh, at his residence in Lagos.

    According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu said his administration’s ongoing recalibration of the nation’s security architecture was designed to deliver tangible results, adding that new approaches would change Nigeria’s security narrative and restore public confidence.

    “The mood of the nation is peaceful, although our ungoverned spaces are so large. The challenge is real, but we will surmount it,” the President said, calling for vigilance, cooperation and sustained engagement with faith-based groups.

    He stressed that legislative backing was critical to the take-off of sub-national policing.

    “Community and State Police will be a reality once the National Assembly completes the required legislative inputs,” Tinubu said, explaining that security reforms required patience, especially in the procurement of military hardware.

    The President noted that delays in acquiring equipment, particularly air assets, had affected public perception, but insisted the government was not relenting.

    “Military hardware is difficult to replace. It is expensive and not available off the shelf. Our orders for four attack helicopters from the United States of America will take some time to arrive. We have approached Turkey for assistance,” he said.

    Tinubu said the administration remained focused on restoring peace and prosperity despite the evolving tactics of bandits and insurgents.

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    On the recent abduction and subsequent release of schoolchildren in Niger and Kebbi states, he urged vigilance, adding that outcomes mattered more than rhetoric.

    “The rhetoric on how the children were released or what happened to the kidnappers is secondary; the end justifies the means,” he said.

    Responding, Archbishop Okoh assured the President of the Church’s support, describing him as “our President” and pledging cooperation.

    He acknowledged the receipt of palliatives extended to CAN during religious festivals and beyond, and commended Tinubu’s commitment to addressing security and socio-economic challenges.

    “We acknowledge that the task before you is daunting, but we are assured of your sagacity. The Christian community is committed to ensuring that you succeed,” Okoh said, adding that the administration’s engagement had “closed the gap between the government and the Church.”

    The CAN President appealed for direct engagement through the association’s established structures across the country’s 774 local government areas and requested the release of funds to the Christian Pilgrims’ Board to enable it to fulfil its mandate.

    Members of the delegation included CAN Vice President, Rev. Dr Stephen Panya Baba; President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Bishop Francis Wale Oke; representatives of the Organisation of African Instituted Churches, the Catholic and Methodist blocs, and the CAN Chairman in Lagos State, Bishop Stephen Adegbite.

  • Yuletide: Ensure public safety, CAN urges govt.

    Yuletide: Ensure public safety, CAN urges govt.

    The Oyo State Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has urged government at all levels to ensure public safety during the Yuletide.

    The state CAN Chairman, Rev. Elisha Ogundiya, in commemoration of Christmas, made a remark in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ibadan on Thursday.

    Ogundiya urged the government to take a multi-faceted approach to address the root causes of insecurity in the country.

    “The Yuletide season is upon us, and it’s a time for peace, love, and togetherness, but the recent surge in killings and banditry in Nigeria is a major concern,” he said.

    He called on the government to deploy security personnel and increase security presence in high-risk areas, especially in rural communities and along highways.

    Ogundiya emphasised the need to engage with local leaders and communities to gather intelligence and foster collaboration in preventing attacks.

    The Oyo CAN chairman called for the support of victims’ families and affected communities.

    He emphasised the need to address poverty, unemployment, and the lack of opportunities, contributing to banditry in one form or another.

    “There is a need to ensure prompt investigation and prosecution of perpetrators of evil.

    “Also, the government can work with traditional leaders, civil societies, and other stakeholders to promote peace,” he said.

    Ogundiya remarks that Christmas is a celebration of love, kindness, and generosity.

    He adds that it’s also about spreading joy and cheer, taking time to appreciate the people and things that matter most.

    Amid the festivities, the cleric enjoined all Christian faithful to remember that Jesus’ birth signifies love, hope, and salvation.

    He advised them to embody Christ’s spirit by giving to those in need.

    “Balance your celebrations with prayer and quality time with loved ones, and let your Christmas spirit overflow into everyday life.

    “Reach out to the marginalised and lonely, thank God for the gift of Jesus, and share the gospel with others,” Ogundiya said.

    (NAN)

  • Christmas: CAN urges churches to celebrate with vigilance

    Christmas: CAN urges churches to celebrate with vigilance

    The national leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on Wednesday urged churches to celebrate Christmas with heightened security consciousness. 

    In a Christmas message to Christians and people of goodwill on Wednesday, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said while the birth of Jesus Christ symbolises hope, light, and God’s abiding love for humanity, the safety of worshippers must remain paramount during the festive season.

    He called on church leaders, particularly those in areas prone to CAN security threats, to take practical steps to protect lives, stressing that vigilance and responsibility were essential expressions of Christian stewardship.

    Okoh said, “As churches gather to worship and rejoice during this festive season, Christian leaders and congregations must do so with wisdom, vigilance, and a deep sense of responsibility. The protection of human life is sacred and must remain paramount.”

    The CAN president advised that in locations where security presence was inadequate, church leaders should prayerfully consider holding services in safer venues or organising smaller gatherings that allow for better protection of members.

    He explained that the guidance was motivated by love and care, not fear, adding that Christians were called to be wise stewards of the lives entrusted to them by God.

    He also appealed to security agencies to increase their presence around places of worship during the Christmas season, while urging churches to sustain close collaboration with law enforcement authorities to ensure peaceful and hitch-free celebrations nationwide.

    Beyond security concerns, the CAN President urged Nigerians to reflect on the core message of Christmas: love, peace, patience, sacrifice, and compassion, even in the midst of economic difficulties and social uncertainties.

    He reassured Christians that the celebration of Christ’s birth remained a reminder that God had not abandoned Nigeria and that hope was still alive despite the nation’s challenges.

    Okoh further called on Nigerians to remember those affected by violence, displacement, and hardship, urging citizens to recommit to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and national unity.

    “United by our shared humanity and common destiny, we must renew our commitment to peace, justice, and national cohesion, mindful that Nigeria is our only home and its future depends on our collective resolve.”

    While praying for joy, peace, and hope to fill Nigerian homes and churches, the CAN President expressed optimism that the New Year would usher in renewed faith, healing, and lasting peace for the country.

  • IK Ogbonna slams CAN over ‘A Very Detty Christmas’ controversy

    IK Ogbonna slams CAN over ‘A Very Detty Christmas’ controversy

    Actor IK Ogbonna has again defended his colleague, Ini Edo, amid a controversy surrounding the title of her new movie, “A Very Detty Christmas.”

    The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) had expressed concerns over the title, deeming it offensive and disrespectful to the Christian faith.

    Ogbonna expressed disappointment in CAN’s actions, questioning the timing of their objection, given that the movie’s promotions had been running for months without any issues.

    He emphasised that artists have creative rights, which should not be dictated by external bodies, and highlighted the role of the Film Censors Board in reviewing and approving films before release.

    The actor noted that no one has complained about the movie’s content, which has been widely praised for its creativity.

    He argued that asking for a title change at this point would be damaging, both financially and emotionally, to everyone involved.

    “As artists, we have creative rights, and those rights should not be dictated by external bodies. That is why the Film Censors Board exists to properly review and approve films before they are released to the public. It is truly disheartening that, despite all due diligence and official approval, we find ourselves in this situation.

    “Producing a film takes an enormous amount of money, time, labour, sacrifice, and personal commitment. Promotion for this movie ran openly for over three months. Billboards were raised across the country, commercials aired, banners displayed, and promotional materials printed, running into hundreds of millions of naira. A grand premiere was also held with this same title. During all of this, not a single concern was raised by the Christian Association of Nigeria.

    “Now that the movie is already in cinemas, after the work has been done, and it is time for the film to be enjoyed by audiences, this issue has suddenly come up. At this stage, changing the title is not only impractical but extremely damaging, both financially and emotionally, to everyone involved.

    It is important to note that no one has complained about the content of the film. In fact, the work has been widely praised for its creativity. This makes it difficult to understand why the focus is now solely on the title, especially when there is no intention to insult or belittle Christmas in any way.

    “I believe asking for a title change at this point does not reflect the values of understanding, fairness, and compassion that Christianity teaches. There are many serious issues facing Nigeria and even the Church today, and respectfully, this title should not be one of them.”

    Ini Edo had previously responded to CAN’s concerns, stating that art is meant to provoke thought and spark controversy, and that she, as a devoted Christian, would never knowingly disrespect her religion or the essence of Christmas.

  • Northern CAN distributes food items to 1,000 vulnerable households in Kaduna

    Northern CAN distributes food items to 1,000 vulnerable households in Kaduna

    The Northern Christian Association of Nigeria (Northern CAN) has distributed food items to no fewer than 1,000 vulnerable households as part of its Christmas humanitarian intervention across communities affected by violence in Kaduna State

    The relief items included rice, beans, maize, garri, groundnut oil, palm oil, sugar, salt, seasoning, and other essentials, aimed at easing hardship among victims of violence, widows, orphans, and persons living with disabilities.

    Each of the beneficiary households received 25kg bags of rice, beans, garri, and maize, alongside other food items.

    Flagging off the distribution on Wednesday in Maraban Rido, Kaduna, the Chairman of Northern CAN and the Federal Capital Territory, Rev. Joseph Hayab, said the intervention was supported by Barnabas Aid.

    Hayab explained that the initiative targeted vulnerable persons, including displaced families and people living with disabilities.

    He said the association deliberately selected 1,000 households from two communities, noting that the gesture was meant to bring happiness, relieve pain, and reassure beneficiaries that they were not forgotten during the Christmas season.

    According to him, the initiative combined spiritual, physical, emotional, social, and educational care, stressing that hunger could undermine peace, dignity, and people’s ability to respond positively to calls against violence.

    Hayab added that prayers were offered before the distribution to demonstrate solidarity with beneficiaries and to assure them that their welfare and well-being mattered.

    He disclosed that the humanitarian exercise was not limited to Kaduna State, adding that similar interventions would take place in Borno, Plateau, and Benue states, as well as other violence-affected communities in the North.

    The Northern CAN chairman said the current outreach was part of a broader plan to support about 5,000 households across Northern Nigeria, benefiting tens of thousands of people directly and indirectly.

    Hayab, however, noted that the relief materials could not compensate for the pain suffered by the victims but were a show of solidarity, urging beneficiaries not to sell the items.

    Also speaking, the Vice Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. Jonah Samson, said the outreach aligned with biblical injunctions and the example of Jesus Christ, who fed multitudes during His earthly ministry.

    Samson identified the beneficiaries as victims of persecution and displacement, widows and orphans, and persons living with disabilities, noting that the assistance was being delivered in batches.

    He said that although the support might not solve all challenges, it would bring relief, encouragement, and succour at a time of severe economic hardship and rising cost of living.

    Samson added that the gesture cut across denominations and communities, urging beneficiaries to extend love and support to others, while commending Barnabas Aid for supporting the humanitarian initiative.

    Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, the Village Head of Maraban Rido, Kudansa, Mr. Auta Alkali, thanked Northern CAN and its partners for the timely intervention.

    Alkali described the relief as a source of hope and encouragement during the Christmas season, saying the food items would ease hardship, reduce hunger in their homes, and remind them that they were not forgotten despite the challenges they faced.

  • CAN to Fed Govt: strengthen security structures

    CAN to Fed Govt: strengthen security structures

    The Christian Association of Nigeria, (CAN) yesterday pleaded with the Federal Government to explore every means to curb insecurity.

    Its President, Archishop Danial Okoh, made the plea at the opening ceremony of the 32nd Triennial General Assembly of the Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN),  at the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, Wuse II, Abuja.

    Speaking on the Assembly’s theme: ‘Demand for Justice and Righteousness,’ Rev Okoh said the current security situation threatens the nation’s soul and places fresh moral demands on the government.

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    He said: “The government has a constitutional, moral, and sacred responsibility to protect the lives and property of all Nigerians; without discrimination, without delay, and without excuses”.

    The CAN President urged the CCN to continue standing with CAN in pushing for stronger national action, adding that the church must remain firm and consistent in demanding justice for affected communities.

  • CAN to FG: Nigerians need protection

    CAN to FG: Nigerians need protection

    The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), on Wednesday, urged the federal government to explore every means to protect Nigerians and curb insecurity.

    CAN President, Archbishop Danial Okoh, made the plea at the opening ceremony of the 32nd Triennial General Assembly of the Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN), held at the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, Wuse II, Abuja.

    Speaking on the Assembly’s theme, ‘Demand for Justice and Righteousness,’ Okoh said the current security situation threatens the nation’s soul and places fresh moral demands on the government.

    He said, “The government has a constitutional, moral, and sacred responsibility to protect the lives and property of all Nigerians; without discrimination, without delay, and without excuses.”

    The CAN President urged the CCN to continue standing with CAN in pushing for stronger national action, adding that the Church must remain firm and consistent in demanding justice for affected communities.

    He listed urgent actions expected from the government, including strengthening security structures, bringing perpetrators of violent crimes to justice, supporting displaced families, rebuilding destroyed communities, and tackling the deeper causes of insecurity.

    “Our voices must not waver. Our message must remain consistent and sincere,” he added, encouraging churches to defend the vulnerable and reflect Christ’s values through their actions.

    He reminded the gathering that true Christian witness goes beyond ceremonies and worship spaces.

    “Our Christian witness today will not be judged merely by our prayers or magnificent sanctuaries, but by how faithfully we reflect the character of Christ in our commitment to justice, compassion, and righteousness,” he said.

    The CAN President also commended the Christian Council of Nigeria for its decades-long role as the oldest ecumenical body in the country, noting its enduring contributions to unity, justice, and peace.

    Reaffirming CAN’s partnership with the Council, he said both bodies remain committed to promoting moral integrity and national healing.

    “Together, we will continue to uphold the unity of the Body of Christ, defend the oppressed, and advance the values of God’s kingdom on earth,” he assured.

  • Adamawa CAN chairman not beheaded – Police, CAN

    Adamawa CAN chairman not beheaded – Police, CAN

    The Adamawa Police Command and the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) have dismissed a viral social media post alleging Adamawa CAN Chairman was beheaded by terrorists.

    Adamawa CAN chairman, Rev Joel Manzo, is safe and free, the Police and CAN said Saturday morning in separate statements.

    The Police declared in its statement that a facebook posting alleging the killing of the CAN chairman is totally false, devilish and inciting.

    The Police released the statement in the background of fresh tension in Adamawa State, as the social media posting came in the background of sentiments generated across Nigeria by US President Donald Trump’s threat of military action in Nigeria over alleged genocide against Christians.

    The Adamawa Police command, in a statement by its Public Relations Officer, SP Suleiman Nguroje, described the controversial report, written by a Facebook user identified as Lionman Lioni, as a deliberate attempt to cause panic and religious disaffection among residents.

    “The Command wishes to categorically refute this malicious claim in its entirety. There is no such incident recorded anywhere in Adamawa State,” the Police said.

    Nguroje quoted the state Commissioner of Police, CP Dankombo Moris, as urging members of the public to disregard the facebook report and desist from spreading unverified information that could  undermine peace.

    Nguroje added that, in the meantime, the police command has launched an investigation to track down and prosecute those behind the false publication, as the Command will not tolerate attempts to incite violence through the misuse of social media.

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    In its statement, CAN, quoting the state chairman as proclaiming, “I Am Safe and Alive,” asked members of the public to disregard “the fake news circulating on the social media claiming that the state CAN Chairman was beheaded.”

    “The leadership of the Christian body in the state describes such fake and baseless sources on the social media as agents of the underworld who are out to smear image of the government, and the security agencies thereby causing confusion on the already fragile atmosphere in the country,” CAN stated.

    According to the association, “the state CAN Chairman is in good health and busy going about his official engagement in the state without any threat, fear or intimidation.”