The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed support for the United States government’s decision to assist Nigeria in tackling persistent killings and insecurity across the country.
Speaking on Tuesday during the opening of CAN’s Fourth Quarterly National Executive Council meeting in Jos, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said it was distressing that Nigeria continued to attract global attention for tragic and violent incidents.
However, he noted that such international focus could help compel stronger government action.
“Though we are pained that Nigeria is being spotlighted for such grievous reasons, if international attention is what is required to spur decisive governmental action to protect lives and bring lasting peace, then we, the Christian community in Nigeria, welcome it,” he said.
Okoh reaffirmed CAN’s long-standing position, insisting that Christians in Nigeria were facing targeted violence.
“CAN has spoken clearly and courageously on this matter, and we stand unwavering by our position that there is Christian genocide in Nigeria,” he stated.
Despite the challenges, he urged Christians to remain hopeful, united, prayerful, and courageous. He encouraged leaders to continue providing spiritual guidance, saying, “Our strength lies in our unity.”
Quoting scripture, he added: “And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
The cleric also vowed that CAN would persist in demanding justice and accountability from authorities. He called for the resettlement of all internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their ancestral homes, describing their prolonged displacement as a “painful indictment on the national conscience.”
He emphasized that the choice of Jos for the meeting was symbolic, describing the city as one that had “wept bitterly, prayed fervently, and yet continued to rise with steadfast faith.” Okoh expressed optimism that the meeting’s resolutions would strengthen the unity of the Church and promote peace nationwide.
According to News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the high-level gathering will deliberate on major national issues and outline strategic priorities for CAN in the coming year.
