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  • CAN ready to help on Niger flood – Okoh

    CAN ready to help on Niger flood – Okoh

    Following the flood incident that killed over 100 people in Niger State, the Christians Association of Nigeria (CAN) on Friday said it was ready to help. 

    President of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, asked churches and Christians to support those in need; by giving food, clothes, money, or offering prayers and kind words. 

    Okoh said CAN will also work with the government and other groups to make sure help reaches those who needs it.

    The CAN boss also used the Eid- el- Kabir to facilitate with Muslims. 

    Okoh in a statement said; “On behalf of the national leaders of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), I extend warm greetings to all our Muslim brothers and sisters as you celebrate Eid-el-Kabir 2025.

    “This special festival, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, reminds us of the faith and obedience shown by Abraham (Prophet Ibrahim). It teaches us about sacrifice, love, and kindness values shared by Christians and Muslims alike. 

    “Eid-el-Kabir is a time to come together with family and friends, to share meals, and to care for one another. It is also a time to spread joy and build unity in our communities. As Nigerians, we can all use this moment to show peace and respect, no matter our faith.

    “While we celebrate, we also remember those going through hard times. In Mokwa, Niger State, many families have suffered due to serious flooding. Lives have been lost, homes destroyed, and many people are in need. We send our prayers to everyone affected and ask God to give them strength and comfort.

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    “Even when disasters strike, the spirit of Nigerians stays strong. We thank the Niger State government, emergency workers, and volunteers who are helping. CAN promises to play its part in bringing hope and relief.

    “This season of sacrifice reminds us to care for others. Let us share what we have, visit those in need, and pray for peace in our country. Small acts of kindness can make a big difference.

    “Eid-el-Kabir also gives us a chance to grow closer to our Muslim neighbours. Nigeria is special because of its many cultures and religions. When we celebrate together, we show that unity is stronger than division.

    “To all our Muslim friends, we wish you a joyful and blessed Eid-el-Kabir. May your prayers be accepted and your homes filled with peace and happiness. To the people of Niger State, we continue to pray for healing and recovery.

    “As we mark this occasion, let’s all show love, help the needy, and work for peace in our land. Together, we can overcome any problem and build a better Nigeria.

    “May God bless Nigeria, comfort those in Niger State, and lead our country to peace and prosperity”.

  • CAN president to Nigerians: don’t lose hope, preach peace, unity

    CAN president to Nigerians: don’t lose hope, preach peace, unity

    The President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh has urged Nigerians not to loss hope inspite of the economic challenges.

    Okoh advised Christians to be champions of peace and unity, setting aside differences and promoting genuine reconciliation, understanding, and unity among all Nigerians. 

    The CAN president in his Christmas message issued on Monday pleaded with christians to use the season to renew commitment to building a better Nigeria for future generations. 

    He said: “On behalf of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), I extend warm greetings and good wishes to all Nigerians as we celebrate the joyous occasion of Christmas.

    “On the night when Jesus was born, the hosts of heaven were singing a joyful song, saying “Glory to God in the highest, peace on earth, and goodwill to men.” Luke 2:14 (NIV). Christmas, therefore, holds great significance for Christians worldwide, serving as a poignant reminder of the genuine reconciliation initiated by God’s love to restore the hope of mankind to live forever.

    “During this season, we are reminded to seek to be more like Jesus by reaching out to our neighbors with words of peace. In a diverse country like Nigeria, characterized by multiple ethnicities and religions, we must always strive to seek what unites and binds us together rather than what divides us.

    Read Also: Christmas: This season epitomizes love, peace, joy for all mankind – Peter Obi

    “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.”

  • Israel-Palestine war: CAN calls for calm, diplomatic solutions

    Israel-Palestine war: CAN calls for calm, diplomatic solutions

    The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), has expressed sadness over the Israel and Palestine faceoff, urging both parties to embrace dialogue and diplomatic solutions to end the war.

    The religious body said the recent surprise attack by a militant group on Israeli citizens, resulting in the tragic loss of numerous lives and abduction of several persons, including women and children, was a distressing event that undermines the pursuit of global peace.

    CAN said it frowned at any act of violence that threatens the lives of innocent individuals, regardless of their nationality or religious background.

    The CAN president, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, advised that the airlifting of pilgrims be suspended until normalcy returns in the area, asking religious congregations in Nigeria to engage in fervent prayers for peace and unity in the region.

    The statement reads in part: “The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) is deeply concerned about the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict that has resulted in the loss of countless lives, destruction of infrastructure, and deepened the humanitarian crisis in the region. We are also concerned about its implications for Nigeria and Nigerian pilgrims.

    “While recognizing Israel’s right to self-defence, we emphasize the importance of proportionality and the avoidance of harm to innocent civilians in any military response. The loss of innocent lives on both sides of the conflict is a tragic consequence of this escalating situation, and we extend our deepest condolences to all those who have suffered the loss of their loved ones in these incidents.

    Read Also: Israel promises to end attacks on Israelis

    “Consequently, we call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and violence between Israel and Palestine. We believe in the sanctity of human life and the principles of justice and peace, as upheld by our Christian faith. We urge all parties involved to engage in dialogue and seek diplomatic solutions.

    “Many Nigerian Christians undertake pilgrimages to Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and other sacred sites. The ongoing conflict in the region raises concerns about the safety and well-being of Nigerian pilgrims. Therefore, we advise that the airlifting of Pilgrims be suspended until normalcy returns in the area.

    “Furthermore, the ongoing war holds significant implications for Nigeria’s faith communities. It is crucial for religious leaders and communities in Nigeria to actively promote understanding, compassion, and peaceful coexistence among diverse religious groups. We must resist the temptation to allow this conflict to deepen divisions or inflame religious tensions within our nation, Nigeria.

    He further stated: “In light of these developments, CAN prays for the repose of the souls of those who were killed in the violent attack and the resultant war, as well as reconciliation, healing, and enduring peace in the region. May God Almighty comfort their families. We also call upon the international community, including the United Nations and relevant stakeholders, to redouble their efforts in facilitating a just and lasting resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

    “We encourage all religious congregations in Nigeria to engage in fervent prayers for peace and unity in the region, for the protection and well-being of those affected by the conflict, and for the speedy release of the abducted individuals. Let us remember that our faith calls us to be peacemakers and agents of reconciliation, even in the midst of conflict and adversity.

    “May the God of peace guide us as we navigate these challenging times, and may His grace and mercy prevail in the lands of Israel and Palestine”.

  • CAN to FG: Intensify efforts in tackling terrorism, banditry, others

    CAN to FG: Intensify efforts in tackling terrorism, banditry, others

    Worried over the security challenges in the country, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has advised the Federal Government to up its game in combating terrorism, banditry, and all forms of criminal activities.

    CAN also said adequate resources should be allocated to security agencies for positive results.

    The president of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh said this in his message while congratulating Nigerians on the 63rd Independence Anniversary.

    Okoh called on the government to strengthen intelligence gathering while collaborating with local communities.

    Restoring peace and security, he said is vital not only for the affected regions but for the entire country.

    Okoh, in a statement issued on Sunday, October 1, said: “The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) extends heartfelt congratulations to the people and government of our great nation, Nigeria, on the occasion of its 63rd Independence Anniversary celebration.

    “This significant milestone reminds us of the progress we have made as a nation and the challenges that lie ahead. As we reflect on our journey, we urge the government to prioritize addressing the pressing economic challenges and the escalating state of insecurity in our beloved country.

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    “CAN acknowledges the need for urgent measures to stabilize the Nigerian economy. The recent fall of the Naira against major world currencies, particularly the dollar, has had a profound impact on the lives of ordinary Nigerians. We call on the government to implement sustainable economic policies that will bolster our local currency, stimulate investment, and revitalize key sectors.

    “By fostering an enabling environment for entrepreneurship and providing necessary support to small and medium-sized enterprises, we can create jobs and alleviate poverty, ultimately improving the quality of life for all citizens.

    “Moreover, the escalating state of insecurity, especially in the Southeast region, demands immediate attention. We express deep concern over the spate of violence and bloodshed that has plagued communities, leading to loss of lives and displacement of innocent citizens.

    “CAN implores the government to intensify efforts in combating terrorism, banditry, and all forms of criminal activities. Adequate resources should be allocated to our security agencies, while collaboration with local communities and intelligence gathering must be strengthened. Restoring peace and security is vital not only for the affected regions but for the entire nation, as it will enable people to return to their farms, fostering food security and sustainable development”.

    Okoh emphasized the need for unity and national cohesion, adding that: “Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity, and we must harness this diversity for the common good of all citizens. Together, we can build bridges of understanding and foster an environment where all citizens feel valued and protected.

    “CAN also encourages the government to prioritize education and healthcare. Quality education and accessible healthcare are fundamental rights that must be guaranteed to every Nigerian. By investing in these critical sectors, we empower our youth with knowledge and skills and ensure the well-being of our citizens, particularly the vulnerable.”

    He advised FG and labour unions to resolve the lingering crisis of fuel subsidy removal and the moves to embark on strike.

    The religious body said: “CAN is aware of the ongoing negotiations between the Federal Government and labour unions regarding the removal of fuel subsidies. We urge both parties to find a balanced solution that minimizes the impact on vulnerable Nigerians.

    “The removal of subsidies is a significant economic adjustment with far-reaching consequences. We understand the government’s reasons but acknowledge the resulting distress and hardship.

    “As we celebrate Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Anniversary, let us not forget the challenges that confront us. CAN remains committed to promoting initiatives towards a prosperous and peaceful Nigeria. By doing so, we can achieve sustainable development, foster peace, and create a nation where every Nigerian can thrive. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

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  • Get your PVCs, Okoh tells Christians

    PRIMATE of the Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion  Most Rev’d Nicholas Okoh has urged Christians not to be complacent about the 2019 general elections.

    He said Christians must go out en masse to collect their permanent voters cards (PVCs).

    “Go and get your voters card now, hold on to it. It is your sure ticket to good life, employment and your right to worship without fear.”

    Okoh spoke yesterday at the 2019 first Sunday Thanksgiving Service at the Cathedral Church of The Advent, Abuja.

    He said Christians should not mind those spreading fear of violence at the forthcoming polls, saying: “They are using it to scare you from the polls come February.”

    The cleric counselled Christians to be bold and stand firm in their faith in the Lord that come thunder and rain, all will be well.”

    The PVC, he said, “is a way to ensure you elect credible leaders that will guarantee a better life for you, your children, grandchildren and future generation.

  • Okoh inaugurates board for cable station

    •’Our church deserves standard TV station’

    The Anglican Church will continue to run a world standard electronic medium to keep winning souls for God, its Primate, Most Reverend Nich Okoh, has said.

    He spoke when he inaugurated the Board of Directors of Anglican Cable Network Nigeria Television  (ACNN) headed by veteran journalist, Chief Folu Olamiti, at the church’s headquarters in Abuja. The Church turns 500 this month.

    The primate charged the ACNN Board to work hard and register as a household name in Nigeria with appealing programmes.

    He commended the philanthropy by Mr. & Mrs. Modupe Alakija towards the church, recalling that the initial funds offered by the family led to the take off of ACNN.

    He called on well-meaning Anglican churches across Nigeria to rise in support of the TV project with funds meant to drive the success of the television project.

    Olamiti thanked the primate for confidence in the Board, vowing that members would do their best to take the TV station to the next level of professional excellence.

    Other members of the newly inaugurated Board of Directors of the ACNN include the Rt. Rev’d Blessing Enyindah (Deputy Chairman); the Rt. Rev’d Chidi Oparajiaku; Mr. T.B Akinyeye; Dr. G.T.N Ajakpo; Ven. Dr. Dade Sadare, Mrs. Bisi Amagada and Mrs. Ngozi Adighibe.

     

  • Okoh takes over as BPE chief

    Okoh takes over as BPE chief

    The new Director-General (DG) of the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), Mr. Alex Okoh, has assumed duties with a pledge to ensure that privatised enterprises service Nigerians well.

    In a statement by the Bureau’s Head, Public Communications, Alex Erons Okoh, the DG noted that the handover held at a brief ceremony attended by the management team of the BPE at his conference room.

    According to Okoh, the new helmsman urged the workers to be dedicated to duty to achieve the desired goal. The BPE chief said his administration would work to sustain the positive image of the Bureau and change the negative perception held by some  about the BPE.

    Okoh promised to step up the bureau’s post-privatisation monitoring to ensure that owners of privatised enterprises live up to the deals they signed with the Bureau so that Nigerians could derive maximum benefits from the privatised enterprises.

    He thanked the former acting Director-General of the Bureau, Dr. Vincent Onome Akpotaire, for piloting the affairs of the Bureau in the last 14 months and called for synergy during the transition.

    Akpotaire said given his background as a seasoned administrator, the management and staff of the Bureau were confident that he would succeed in his new assignment and give the Bureau a new lease of life.

    On their part, members of the management team pledged to cooperate with the new DG to take the Bureau to greater heights.

    They later conducted him round the offices where he familiarised with the workers.

    Before his appointment, Okoh was the Managing Partner of Ashford & McGuire Consulting Limited, and a member of the Presidential Economic Advisory Council. He has 32 years experience, 22 of which were in  banking, where his responsibilities involved general management, leadership and organisational development.

    He was the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NNB International Bank Plc from 2001 to 2006 where he took the bank from a comatose state to a position of enhanced value for stakeholders.

    He studied Sociology at the University of Benin and holds a Master’s in Banking & Finance from the University of Ibadan. Also a graduate of Harvard Business School’s Advanced Management Programme, he has acquired international working exposure through programmes with Citibank New York, Fidelity Bank London, Swiss Banking Corporation, Zurich and Grindlays Bank, Zimbabwe. He worked for Nigeria International Bank Limited (Citibank) and United Bank for Africa Plc.

  • Okoh, others celebrate Akinde at 70

    Okoh, others celebrate Akinde at 70

    IT was an outpour of tributes yesterday at the Cathedral of St Jude, Ebute-Meta, Lagos, at the thanksgiving service to mark the 70th birthday and retirement of the Archbishop, Ecclesiastical Province of Lagos and Bishop, Diocese of Lagos Mainland, Rev. Adebayo Akinde.

    The service was also to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the inauguration of the diocese.

    Rev. Nicholas Okoh, who is the Archbishop, Metropolitan and Primate of All Nigeria (Anglican Communion), led well-wishers to celebrate Akinde.

    In his sermon at the service,  Okoh spoke glowingly of the virtues of Akinde that has endeared him to the septuagenarian.

    He described the Professor of Science as a complete Christian gentleman, humble and a leader of great integrity and other qualities he could vouch for.

    He said: “Despite Akinde’s exposure and reaching the highest rank in academics and Christianity, he has remained humble, loyal to authority and straightforward.  He has only one page both in the open and secret. He is also detribalised and a human rights activist.”

    Okoh noted that the retirement age was necessary for the church so that nobody gets weakened while serving in the vineyard and such person can enjoy the rest of their life without struggling.

    He added that Akinde has made tremendous impact as pioneer bishop of the diocese by executing his projects, leading the people to the service of God and win more souls to Christ.

    Thanking God for Akinde’s services and good health, he said: “He has left his footprints in the sands of time; even though he will still be serving the church, but not in active capacity.”

    Akinde spoke of how overwhelmed and humbled he was to have attained the age of 70.

    He promised to keep serving God; teaching the Bible; counsel and give himself more to evangelism.

    He urged his successor, Rev. Akinpelu Johnson, who will be enthroned today, to hold on to God firmly and unwaveringly and the Anglican Communion.

    “He must learn to listen to the voice of God and be obedient to Him. He must run God’s agenda for the church,” he said

    Akinde called on leaders to be upright and transparent, knowing that someday, they will give account of their stewardship.

    Former Head of Interim Government Chief Ernest Shonekan; Alake of Egbaland Oba Michael Gbadebo; mother of the Vice President, Mrs. Olabisi Osinbajo; former Anambra State governor Peter Obi; Mrs Leila Fowler and former Obafemi Awolowo Vice Chancellor, Prof. Wale Omole and others attended the event.

     

  • Be shepherd to all, Okoh tasks new Bishop

    Be shepherd to all, Okoh tasks new Bishop

    The Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Revd Nicholas Okoh, has urged the newly consecrated Bishop of the Diocese of Igbomina West Venerable Timothy Adebayo to be shepherd of all.

    He spoke at the service of consecration for the new bishop at the Cathedral Church of Christ Marina, Lagos last week.

    Okoh stated that the church is in need of devoted leaders conscious of the mandate given to them by God to be Shepherds of the flock of Christ under their care.

    Turning to the new bishop, the Primate said:”Be a shepherd and not a wolf to the flock.”

    The consecration was performed by the Primate and other Anglican Bishops in solemn sentences blended with melodic musical renditions by the Cathedral choir.

    The new bishop was administered with Oaths of consecration and canonical obedience to the Primate, Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion.

    The Bishop of Kwara,  The Rt. Rev. Olusegun Adeyemi, in his sermon, called on all Christians to live up to their calling.

    Adeyemi noted the erosion of moral values in the world especially among Christians.

    “Today, there seems to be no difference between the church and the world even though the Bible said that we are in the world but are not of the world.

    “There seems to be no difference in the actions of the church and the world with acts of dishonesty, fornication prevalent among other vices,” he stressed.

    Adebayo thanked the leadership of the church for his election and consecration.

    He promised to be a leader with shining example.

     

  • Okoh consecrates three bishops in Anambra

    The Primate of the Anglican Church of Nigeria, Most Rev. Nicholas Okoh, yesterday, consecrated three new bishops at the All Saints Cathedral Church, Onitsha.

    The bishops are: Moses Bukpe Tabwale (Gwagwalada Diocese), Johnson Nwaohalama Ekwe (Niger West) and Dr Isaac Iwabi Oluyamo (Ijesa North).

    In his sermon, Bishop of Akoko Diocese, Gabriel Akinbiyi enjoined Christians to lead exemplary lives.

    He decried the spate of crimes in the society, regretting that more often, Christians were associated with such vices.

    Primate Okoh, while urged the new bishops to be diligent in their service to God and humanity.

    He said: “Be a shepherd and not a wolf to the flock of Christ; feed them and do not devour them.

    “Seek the lost, uphold the weak, restore health to the sick and lift the downtrodden in the society.

    “Ensure discipline but forget not mercy. Be merciful and be not too remiss”.