The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed support for the decision of the United States government to assist Nigeria in tackling persistent killings and insecurity across the country.
CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, stated this on Tuesday while delivering a keynote address at the opening of the association’s Fourth Quarterly National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Jos.
Okoh said it was painful that Nigeria continued to draw global attention for negative reasons but noted that international interest could help spur decisive government action to protect citizens and restore peace.
“Though we are pained that Nigeria is being spotlighted for such grievous reasons, if international attention is what is required to protect lives and bring lasting peace, then we, the Christian community in Nigeria, welcome it,” he said.
The CAN President reiterated the association’s long-standing position that Christians in parts of the country are facing targeted attacks.
“CAN has spoken clearly and courageously on this matter, and we stand unwavering by our position that there is Christian genocide in Nigeria,” he added.
Despite the challenges, Okoh urged Christian leaders to remain steadfast, prayerful, and united, saying the community must continue to sow seeds of hope in difficult times. He affirmed CAN’s commitment to demanding justice, accountability, and improved security for all citizens.
He also called for the resettlement of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) to their ancestral homes, describing their prolonged displacement as a “painful indictment on the national conscience.”
“Our God has not abandoned us. This darkness shall not overcome the light of Christ,” he said.
Okoh noted that hosting the NEC meeting in Jos was symbolic, describing the city as one that had “wept, prayed, and yet continued to rise with steadfast faith.” He expressed hope that the meeting’s resolutions would strengthen church unity and support peace efforts nationwide.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the meeting will deliberate on major national issues and outline strategic priorities for the Christian body in the coming year.
