Joel Ajayi
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called for national renewal, restoration, and responsible leadership as Nigeria steps into the year 2026, urging government at all levels to address insecurity, economic hardship, and moral decline with urgency and compassion.
In a New Year message to Nigerians, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, thanked God for preserving lives and sustaining the nation through what he described as a year marked by severe trials and testing moments.
He noted that 2025 was particularly difficult for many citizens, as rising living costs, widespread insecurity, and economic uncertainty placed enormous pressure on families and communities across the country. According to CAN, the endurance shown by Nigerians should not be mistaken for wellbeing, but rather seen as a reminder of the deep healing, justice, and relief the nation still requires.
Archbishop Okoh stressed that ongoing conversations around reforms, recovery, and growth must reflect in the everyday lives of ordinary Nigerians. He said true development should be evident when food becomes affordable, healthcare accessible, education attainable, and meaningful employment available.
The CAN President emphasized the need for Nigeria to become a country where families live with dignity, young people can plan their futures with confidence, and communities are no longer held hostage by fear. He called on leaders to ensure that public policies and governance decisions consistently reflect compassion, responsibility, and commitment to the common good, particularly for the poor and vulnerable.
Expressing deep concern over persistent insecurity nationwide, CAN described terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and violent crime as grave threats that have destroyed lives and displaced entire communities. The association urged the government to fulfil its promise of significantly reducing insecurity in the new year.
CAN also called for a clear, comprehensive, and time-bound plan to resettle communities displaced by prolonged violence. Archbishop Okoh said it was unjust for citizens to remain indefinitely uprooted from their ancestral homes and livelihoods, adding that national healing cannot be achieved while entire communities remain unsettled. He stressed the need for guaranteed security, reconstruction of homes and infrastructure, and dignified return of displaced persons.
On economic reforms, CAN urged wisdom, fairness, and restraint, warning that fiscal and tax policies must not worsen hardship for struggling citizens. The association called for deliberate protection and support for small businesses, low-income earners, and rural communities to ensure inclusive recovery.
Beyond economic and structural issues, CAN highlighted Nigeria’s moral challenges, including corruption, injustice, and division, which it said continue to erode trust and weaken the nation’s conscience. The group urged leaders to embrace integrity, accountability, and service-driven governance, noting that national renewal requires moral courage as much as technical competence.
Reaffirming the Church’s role, CAN pledged to stand with the people, speak truth with love, and uphold hope despite prevailing challenges. Archbishop Okoh expressed confidence that Nigeria still has a future, stating that justice, peace, and restoration remain achievable through responsible leadership and citizens’ commitment to unity and righteousness.
The statement concluded with prayers for God’s guidance and blessings upon the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
