Tag: the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN)

The Northern chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a father figure whose leadership left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s journey of nationhood.

In a statement in Kaduna yesterday, Chairman of Northern CAN, Revd Joseph John Hayab, said Buhari’s passing signalled the close of a defining chapter in Nigeria’s political history.

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“While Nigerians may have held divergent views on some of his policies, there is no denying Buhari’s strong sense of patriotism, discipline, and unwavering commitment to national unity,” Revd Hayab said.

He noted that the late President’s contributions to the Nigeria — first as military ruler between January 1984 and August 1985, and later as twice democratically elected leader from 2015 to 2023 — would continue to shape public discourse for years to come.

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts to secure the release of Leah Sharibu, who was abducted by Boko Haram terrorists seven years ago.

A statement by the CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, expressed solidarity with Leah’s family and praised her courage and unwavering faith, describing them as a beacon of hope.

CAN emphasised that Leah’s continued captivity highlights the insecurity facing Nigeria and the urgent need to protect religious freedom. 

The association also urged the international community to support the cause for Leah’s release.

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The statement reads: “The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) stands in solidarity with Leah’s family and all who continue to bear the pain of her absence. Leah’s courage and steadfast faith in the face of unimaginable adversity remain a beacon of hope and inspiration to us all.

“Her prolonged captivity is a painful reminder of the insecurity plaguing our nation and the urgent need to protect the fundamental right to freedom of religion. We call on the Federal Government to redouble its efforts to secure Leah’s release and that of others still held captive. No sacrifice is too great to bring our daughter home”.

CAN urged Nigerians, especially the Christian faithful, to unite in prayer and action for Leah’s freedom and for peace across the country.

The religious body also charged the government, security agencies, and all stakeholders to take decisive action to end the scourge of violence and restore safety to Nigeria.

He said: “CAN will continue to speak for the voiceless and champion the cause of peace and unity in Nigeria”.

…calls for unity

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on Sunday expressed support for Bishop Wale Oke’s re-election as the national president of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) during its 18th Biennial Conference in Abuja.

CAN said Oke’s re-election reflects the trust that PFN members have in his leadership.

According to a statement issued by the president of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, on Sunday, the emphasis was placed on Bishop Oke’s humble nature and his significant role in uniting Pentecostal churches while addressing national moral issues.

Okoh also acknowledged the collaboration between CAN and PFN under his leadership.

He articulated his expectations for Bishop Oke’s continued commitment to providing spiritual guidance, enhancing interfaith dialogue, and advancing social justice and humanitarian initiatives.

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The CAN boss urged the Christian community to support Bishop Oke’s vision through prayers for wisdom and strength as he embarks on this new term, emphasising that unity and faith are essential for the peace and prosperity of the nation.

Okoh said: “Bishop Oke has proven himself to be a humble and approachable leader. His tenure as the head of PFN has been marked by significant strides in uniting Pentecostal churches across Nigeria and engaging in the national discourse on moral and ethical issues.

“We look forward to his ongoing commitment to providing spiritual guidance, enhancing interfaith dialogue, and advancing social justice and humanitarian services.”

The President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh, has said interfaith dialogue is necessary to promote peace and reconciliation in the country.

Okoh said this yesterday in Abuja during this year’s United Nations World Interfaith Harmony Week Conference with the theme: The Love of the Good and the Love of the Neighbor and the sub-theme: Peace for Our Time.

The conference was attended by religious leaders and advocates dedicated to promoting understanding and cooperation among diverse faiths.

The CAN president noted that Nigeria and other parts of the world are current facing unprecedented challenges, such as social inequalities, climate crises, and violent extremism.

Okoh said the commitment to interfaith harmony is now more vital than ever, emphasising that the virtues of love, compassion, and mutual respect are essential for healing divisions and building bridges within communities.

The archbishop called for a collective effort to promote religious literacy that would citizens to recognise the shared values that unite them rather than focus on divisive issues.

He stressed the essence of dialogue among the people of Nigeria, a nation known for its diversity, emphasising that this is the only viable path to achieving sustainable peace.

Okoh urged participants to reject false teachings that incite enmity and to champion the rights of others, stressing that safeguarding the rights of one group ultimately protects the rights of all.

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He said: “The message of love of the good and love of the neighbour is universal. It transcends all borders, religions, and cultures, resonating with every faith tradition in the world.

“At a time when our world faces unprecedented challenges — ranging from social inequalities to climate crises, from violent extremism to the erosion of trust between communities — our commitment to interfaith harmony is more critical than ever.

“To deepen our engagement with one another, we must continue to promote religious literacy among the citizenry, highlighting the common values that bind us together rather than those issues that divide us.

“Therefore, we must do everything within our power to resist all false teachings that use religion to create enmity among our people in Nigeria.”

Ahead of next Saturday’s governorship election, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Ondo State chapter, has pledged to observe a three-day prayer.

The Christian body revealed this when it met with the Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who is also the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

During the meeting in Akure on Monday, the governor, who solicited the body’s support, promised to rule with the fear of God, if elected.

This was contained in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Ebenezer Adeniyan.

He called on the Christian leaders across the state to pray for the state, particularly for the election.

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Aiyedatiwa said: “I am one of you, a born-again Christian, and I understand the spiritual responsibilities that come with leadership.

“The Ondo State government is anchored on the body of Christ, and as such, we cannot afford to fail. I earnestly ask that you continue to pray for us, for wisdom in governance and for the upcoming elections to be peaceful and just.

In response, the Chairman of the state chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Rev Fr Anselm Ologunwa, praised the governor’s prompt attention to issues concerning the Christian community.

He, however, noted that CAN remained non-partisan, with a primary mission to uphold Christian values.

“We appreciate your dedication to our concerns and your promptness in addressing matters that affect the body of Christ. Your leadership is indeed commendable.

“The body of Christ is non-partisan, our duty is to promote the teachings of Jesus Christ, regardless of political affiliations.

He said the body needs a government that actively advocates for peace and harmony.

The cleric also announced that the group had set aside three days for prayers ahead of the election day.