The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called for more responsible leadership as it wishes all Nigerians a successful and blessed New Year. In a statement by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the association acknowledged that the outgoing year was an exceptionally difficult period for many.
Addressing the Hardship
“Economic hardship, rising living costs, insecurity, and uncertainty have placed enormous strain on families and communities,” Archbishop Okoh stated. “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.”
CAN urged that national discussions regarding reforms, recovery, and growth must translate into lived realities for the populace.
The body emphasized that economic advancement is only meaningful when food is affordable, healthcare is accessible, education is attainable, and meaningful work is available. “Development that does not touch ordinary lives remains incomplete,” the statement noted.
Security and Resettlement
The association highlighted the persistence of insecurity—including terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping—as a grave national concern that has shattered lives and uprooted communities. CAN called on the government to:
Take decisive action to reduce insecurity to the lowest possible levels this year and present a comprehensive, time-bound plan for the resettlement of communities displaced by violence.
Government according to CAN should ensure that citizens are not indefinitely uprooted from their ancestral lands. “Security must be guaranteed, infrastructure rebuilt, and displaced persons enabled to return safely,” the body noted.
Fiscal Fairness and Moral Courage
Regarding ongoing fiscal and tax policy reforms, CAN called for wisdom, fairness, and restraint. The association warned that economic decisions must not deepen the hardship of those already struggling, particularly small businesses and low-income earners.
Furthermore, CAN stressed that Nigeria’s challenges are as much moral as they are structural. “Corruption, injustice, and division continue to weaken trust and erode our national conscience,” the statement read. “Leadership at all levels must be guided by integrity and a sincere commitment to serve rather than dominate.”
A Vision for 2026
Restating its commitment to standing with the people and speaking truth to power, CAN concluded with a message of hope:
“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 rise into better days marked by healing and shared progress.”