The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Daniel Okoh

  • CAN to churches: raise awareness against gender-based violence

    CAN to churches: raise awareness against gender-based violence

    The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) yesterday urged churches to raise awareness against gender-based violence and its devastating impact on families and communities.

    CAN President Daniel Okoh spoke at the launch of the gender-based violence prevention project at the Christian Ecumenical Centre in Abuja.  Okoh also said men and women of God must not be silent when women are being brutalised in their homes and communities.

    The CAN president insisted that the church must not be indifferent when girls are denied education, dignity, or protection.

    He said: “Let me begin by commending the Ford Foundation and WEWE for their tireless work in promoting gender justice and supporting faith-based approaches to social transformation. This partnership represents what can be achieved when faith meets action and compassion is translated into advocacy and service.

    Read Also: Tinubu proposes formal Nigeria-OECS pact to deepen bilateral ties

    “The theme for today’s event, Christian Leaders’ Response to Violence Against Women and Girls, could not be more timely. Across our communities, we are daily confronted with heartbreaking stories of abuse, exploitation, and violence, often perpetrated in silence. As Christian leaders, we must join forces with other humanitarian organisations that want an end to this anomaly.

    “The Holy Bible commands us to defend the cause of the fatherless and plead the case of the widow (Isaiah 1:17). Our Lord Jesus Christ showed special concern for the marginalised, including women and children, who were among the most vulnerable in His time. If we are to be true disciples, we must follow His example by creating safe spaces, speaking out against injustice, and taking practical steps to end the cycle of gender-based violence in our homes, churches, and communities today.

  • ‘Only CAN president can speak on national issues’

    ‘Only CAN president can speak on national issues’

    President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh, yesterday said only he can speak on national issues.

    He said in a statement: “The authority to issue official press statements on behalf of CAN resides solely with the President, as stipulated in the CAN Constitution.

    “The current President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, is therefore the only person empowered to speak on behalf of the Association on matters of national and international importance.

    Read Also: Beyond football, Afrobeats: 10 Nigerian boxers making waves in boxing world

    “While zonal, state, and local chapters may issue communications relevant to their immediate contexts, they are not authorised to issue statements representing the national position of CAN unless expressly permitted by the national leadership.

    “It has come to the attention of the national leadership that certain statements attributed to entities such as ‘Northern CAN,’ ‘Southern CAN,’ and other regional or unofficial groups are in circulation.

    “CAN categorically states that these entities are not recognised within its constitutional structure.

    “Any statements issued by such groups do not reflect the official position of CAN and should be disregarded by the public and the media.”

  • Palm Sunday: CAN seeks peace, servant-leadership

    Palm Sunday: CAN seeks peace, servant-leadership

    • Kaigama counsels office holders

    From the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) came yesterday a piece of advice to leaders:  rise to the occasion with humility and a clear sense of purpose and ensure peaceful co-existence among  citizens.

    The CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, gave the advice in Abuja as Christians all over the world mark Palm Sunday, the beginning of Holy Week.

    Rev Okoh said that Palm Sunday commemorates the triumphal entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem, where He was welcomed with palm branches and shouts of “Hosanna”.

    According to him, this signifies a powerful symbol of peace, humility and hope which is recorded in the Gospels of Matthew 21:1–11, Mark 11:1–11, Luke 19:28–44, and John 12:12–19.

    Rev Okoh said that these offered enduring lessons for the nation as it navigates uncertain and challenging times.

    “These lessons are especially pertinent as we are once again confronted with a painful reminder of the fragility of peace in our land.

    Read Also: Stalled council autonomy

    “Jesus’ choice to enter Jerusalem on a donkey symbolising peace and servanthood remains a timeless example.

    “Our leaders must embrace the principles of servant leadership, placing the welfare of the people above personal or political interests.

    “Amidst insecurity, economic hardship, and displacement, let their actions be marked by compassion, justice and a steadfast commitment to national healing,” he said.

    The Association also condemned the recent killings in Plateau State, particularly the attacks of April 4, which claimed the lives of dozens of innocent citizens in Bokkos and Mangu Local Government Areas.

    “These senseless acts of violence represent not only a gross violation of human dignity and the sanctity of life, but also a serious threat to our national unity and peace.

    “We call on the security agencies to act swiftly and decisively in bringing the perpetrators to justice.

    “We also urge all tiers of government to intensify efforts to secure all communities and prevent further bloodshed.

    “The continued loss of lives in such tragic circumstances is simply unacceptable,” he said.

    The CAN President  appealed to all Nigerians, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or political affiliation, to rise above division and embrace “our shared identity as one people under God.”.

    According to him, the diverse crowds in Jerusalem were united in hope.

    He urged Nigerians to come together in similar manner, with a common purpose to heal the land and build a future grounded in mutual respect, compassion and solidarity.

    “Palm Sunday reminds us that even in times of trial, there is hope. The journey to national renewal begins with each of us.

    Also Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Most Rev  Ignatius Kaigama, has challenged leaders at all levels on intentional leadership.

    Archbishop Kaigama stated this at the Pro Cathedral, Abuja, the nation’s capital.

    On more lessons of Palm Sunday, he noted that today’s celebration calls on leaders to be determined to achieve the purpose of their being leaders by providing basic amenities for their people.

    His words: “We call on leaders, not to be carried away by people’s hailing and calling titles such as “Your Excellency,” “Distinguished,” “Honourable,” “Your Majesty,” “Your Eminence,” “Your Grace,” etc., but to be determined to achieve the purpose of their being leaders. Political leaders should be aware that in our country today, after election victory, people shout “hosanna” to their leaders, but with hunger and insecurity ravaging our dear country, and when people are at breaking point, they shout in desperation “crucify them, crucify them.”

    “Let us be mindful of our words and actions, choosing to be peacemakers in our homes, communities, and workplaces.

    “Through a shared commitment to truth and justice, we can overcome the pain of the present and help shape a Nigeria where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive,” he said.

  • CAN to FG: Implement policies that will protect worker’s rights

    CAN to FG: Implement policies that will protect worker’s rights

    Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has advised the federal government to implement policies that will protect workers right.

    In a statement released by Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the President of CAN, the religious organization expressed: “As Nigeria commemorates Workers’ Day, the national leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) joins millions of workers across the country in celebrating their hard work and dedication to the success of our nation. Today, we honour the tireless efforts and sacrifices of our workers, who serve as the backbone of our economy, keeping our industries, healthcare, education, and communities running smoothly.

    Read Also: Workers’ Day: PDP Chieftain, Abidikugu felicitates Oyo workers

    “While we celebrate, we must also acknowledge the many challenges workers face in Nigeria. Many struggle to make ends meet due to low wages, poor working conditions, and lack of support. They face long working hours, exploitation, and limited access to education and healthcare. We urge the government and employers to put workers’ welfare first and address these issues urgently.

    “As a nation, we must recognise the value of hard work and ensure our workers are treated fairly, with justice and respect. We must strive to create a fairer society where every worker is valued and supported. This means access to decent wages, safe working conditions, and comprehensive support.

    “We call on the government to implement policies that protect workers’ rights, improve working conditions, and provide a strong safety net for all workers. We urge employers to prioritise their employees’ well-being and treat them with dignity and respect. Let us work together to build a Nigeria where every worker is empowered, valued, and treated with the respect they deserve.”

  • Christian leaders pray for peace, success of Tinubu govt

    Christian leaders pray for peace, success of Tinubu govt

    • Unite Nigerians, end insecurity, Kukah urges Tinubu

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese Mathew Kukah and Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) President Daniel Okoh yesterday joined other political leaders and clerics in praying for peace in the country and success of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

    The trio also enjoined Nigerians to love one another and believe that the nation’s economic and security challenges would be surmounted.

    Their prayers and encouragements were contained in their separate Christmas messages to Nigerians, especially Christians yesterday.

    Akpabio, at a Christmas day service by the Cathedral of Unity, Methodist Church Nigeria, Abuja, said with prayers for Tinubu’s success, “tangible dividends of democracy” would be delivered to Nigerians.

    He said: “Today is a special day in Christendom when God gave the greatest gift, his only begotten son to mankind. He is born today in order to redeem mankind. And that birth is what we are celebrating today.

    “As we celebrate this season I urge you all to offer your prayers and support for our President Tinubu. I want to thank the Arch Bishop for also praying for the President. Most of the problems you are seeing today in Nigeria were not caused by President Tinubu.

    “When people write all sorts in social media, I always say are they aware that this man has just assumed office as the President, but a lot of miracles are being expected from him because people remember how well he performed as the Governor of Lagos State from 1999 to 2007. And today Lagos is one of the largest economies in West Africa.

    “For me under President Tinubu I envision a future that which Nigeria is secured and people can sleep with their two eyes closed. I envision a future in which our children will have gainful employment. I envision a future in which Nigeria will be respected in the international community.

    “I envision Nigeria that foreign direct investment will come in and many companies which had shut down will reopen for production and boost the economy. Nigeria shall be great again under President Tinubu. We need to pray for him and be patient,” he said.

     Methodist Archbishop of Abuja, Archbishop  Michael Olusegun Akinwale in his homily urged the church to pray for the leaders and support them.

    He also prayed for  Tinubu and  Akpabio to lead Nigeria to become a peaceful and prosperous nation.

     Kukah to Tinubu: use your experience to unite Nigerians, end insecurity

    In Sokoto, Bishop Kukah called on the President to use his wealth of experience to unite Nigerians and to end insecurity.

    He also told Tinubu to take a second look at the palliatives given to some Nigerians as such would not resolve Nigeria’s problems.

    Describing  the nation’s woes   as “deep and structural,” the Bishop said now was the time to  end the ugly “instrumentalisation of religious, ethnic or regional identities.”

    His message tagged ‘Time to Reclaim Nigeria’s Greatness,’ touched on unity, nation-building, insecurity and politics, among others.

    Kukah also appealed to Nigerians to continue to have faith in the country and be hopeful.

    His words: “Now, the government must devise strategies for achieving reconciliation, which has eluded us. Our injuries are not invisible. Many national conferences have been held to chart a way forward. The trove of grievances and hopes is there, and all the government needs to do is to dust them up. No need to reinvent the wheel or attempt some new diagnosis.

    “Mr. President, Sir, congratulations and a happy Christmas. Now, you have what you prayed for, what you dreamt of, what you longed for. For the better part of over 20 years, you planned to be our President. For years, you campaigned for a new Nigeria through restructuring or overhauling the defective machinery of the Nigerian state.

    “For years, you fought the military and other forms of dictatorships. For years, you fought for the victims of a deep state. For years, you sought to create an egalitarian society. For years, you sought a just society. For years, you have built networks with individuals, communities, and institutions. Now is harvest time.

    “You are in the driving seat now. Under your watch, Nigeria must turn the corner. Under your watch, we must end the ugly instrumentalisation of religious, ethnic, or regional identities.

    “You have had enough time to think of the answers to the many questions that are crying for answers. Your future and that of our country is in your hands.

      ”Mr President, you have no excuses before God or the people of Nigeria. Neither God nor history will forgive you if you fail. This is our moment, our date with history. Now, all eyes and ears are on you. Our prayers for a united country are with you.

    Read Also: Kukah to Tinubu: use your wealth of experience to unite Nigerians, end insecurity

    “We have seen the first faltering steps of policy decisions, which have elicited a mixture of controversy, anxiety, and praise. This is to be expected. You have promised us a Renewed Hope Agenda, but know that hope has worn thin in our dear nation.

    “Nigerians have almost lost hope in the fact that a government can really and truly care for them. Nigerians have lost hope in the fact that our politicians will put our interests first and find a way to deal with the cancer of corruption. We had lost hope in being united again, given the seeds of division that had been sown. Ignite our hope again, Sir.

    “We now have seen some renewed hope in your effort to run an inclusive government. We want an end to partisanship. The problems of Nigeria are deep-seated, and they are based on a culture of corruption that has become the foundation stone of governance. This evil structure has to be dismantled.

    “Palliatives will not resolve Nigeria’s problems. The problems are deep and structural. Please do not be afraid to reset the template of power, regardless of the cultural or historical myths. We are tired of promises and stories. We want evidence we can see and touch.

    “Mr. President, the killings of Nigerians by whatever name must end and end now. These senseless killings, abductions, extortions, and kidnappings have to end, and the sacredness and sanctity of human life must be restored. Blasphemy laws have no place in a democracy. We are not in a theocracy.

    “Those who take life by whatever means must be fished out and punished. A culture of compensation to victims must be institutionalised and states must take full responsibility while criminals or those who hide them are fished out. We cannot go on this way. The seeds of hatred that have sprouted in Gaza show us the consequences of allowing a culture of distorted narratives to grow among us.

      ”You must rid the public service of criminals who have turned the opportunity to serve into an ignoble enterprise. We concede that millions of decent men and women genuinely wish to serve but are crushed by the deadweight of corrupt ogas at the top who use corruption as their oxygen! This surgery must happen if you are to succeed in any of your dreams of delivering much-needed services to our we must always strive to seek what unites and binds us together rather than what divides us.

    “In this context, reconciliation signifies more than the absence of conflict; it signifies the presence of genuine love, respect, and acceptance for one another.

    “As we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, we are reminded of the transformative power of forgiveness, compassion, and empathy. This season presents us with an opportunity to reflect on our individual and collective actions, seek forgiveness where necessary, and extend a hand of reconciliation to those we may have wronged or who have wronged us.

    “Let us emulate the example set by Jesus Christ and strive to cultivate a culture of forgiveness and understanding in our communities and nation at large.

    “As Nigerians, we are faced with numerous challenges, but we must not lose hope. Instead, we must use this season to renew our commitment to building a better Nigeria for future generations. Let us work towards fostering an environment where every Nigerian can thrive, where justice and equity prevail, and where peace and prosperity abound.

    “Though we may be experiencing economic hardship, let us not forget those who are on the margins of society. We must share our resources with them and give them a sense of belonging, as Christ would do. Let us strive to build a nation where peace, justice, and unity prevail. May the joy and blessings of Christmas be with you all.”