by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on Tuesday held its ‘Fourth Quarterly National Executive Council Meeting’ at Crispan Hotel Jos.
Plateau State Governor, Barr Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, who was represented at the meeting by his Deputy, Hon. Josephine Piyo, disclosed thus: “As we remain confident – through unity, wisdom, and our collective faith in God – Nigeria will rise above every storm.
“CAN, as the umbrella body for the Christian community, has always stood as a moral compass and a strong voice for justice, peace, and righteousness in our nation.”
According to him, their commitment in promoting harmony and mutual understanding among the diverse people of this country continues to inspire hope.
He explained that, “For us in Plateau State, this gathering is particularly symbolic. Plateau has long been regarded as the Home of Peace and Tourism – a land blessed with diversity, hospitality, and deep spiritual heritage.”
“My administration is firmly committed to restoring and sustaining true peace across our communities. We are working tirelessly to heal divisions, secure our rural areas, resettle displaced persons, and restore the dignity and livelihood of affected families. We believe that the Church remains one of our strongest partners in this mission,” the governor stated.
Barr Mutfwang appreciated CAN, both at the national and state levels, for their unwavering support, prayers, and partnership, adding that, their counsel and collaboration continue to guide their steps as they build a safer, stronger, and more united Plateau.
The governor further urged them to reflect deeply on how the Church can continue to be a light – shaping national discourse, strengthening moral values, and fostering unity among the people.
“Nigeria needs the Church now more than ever. This meeting comes at a time when our nation continues to navigate complex challenges – social, economic, and security-related,” he noted.
Also, the National President of CAN, Archbishop Daniel C. Okoh, asserted that, “The enduring support of the Plateau State Government strengthens our collective resolve and bears witness to the long-standing bond between this administration and the Christian community.
“We encourage him to continue in this path of service, not only to the Church, but to all the people of Plateau State, so that this blessed land may fully enter into the peace, stability, and prosperity ordained for it.
“Our presence in Jos, today, is not accidental. It is intentional, purposeful, and deeply symbolic. We are here as ambassadors of solidarity, compassion, and moral support.
“We are here to identify with our brothers and sisters across Plateau State and Northern Nigeria, who have endured years of unspeakable tragedy – persecution, displacement, devastation, and unrelenting insecurity.
“It would be a grave injustice to deny the painful reality of what has transpired: lives brutally cut short, communities uprooted from their ancestral lands, families torn apart, churches razed, and hopes shattered,” he stated.
According to the National President, “CAN has spoken clearly and courageously on this matter, and we stand unwaveringly by our position – that, there is Christian genocide in Nigeria,” he said, while citing the Holy Books, thus: “As Scripture affirms: ‘And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free’ (John 8:32, NLT).”
He noted that, “The Body of Christ stands firmly with you.CAN has remained a principled, courageous, and consistent advocate for peace, justice, and national unity.”
The CAN President added that, their calling demands that they speak, because silence in the face of injustice is not only irresponsible; it is unbiblical.
“While we work for the well-being of all Nigerians, our immediate constituency, Christians, who are being persecuted, remain at the center of our advocacy.
“These unrelenting tragedies – killings, kidnappings, arson, destruction of churches, and the dislocation of indigenous communities – have now drawn urgent attention from the international community.
“Although, 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,” the CAN President added.
He assured that, CAN will not relent; they will continue to demand justice; they will continue to call for accountability, and will continue to defend the vulnerable.
“We will continue to advocate for peace and unity in Nigeria. We acknowledge the sacrifices of our security agencies and sympathize with the families of those who have lost their lives in service to the nation.”
He noted, however, that, “Despite these efforts, the killings, kidnappings, and mass displacements remain unabated. Therefore, we renew our appeal to the Federal Government of Nigeria, and to the international community, to act decisively and urgently to halt the senseless destruction of lives and displacement of indigenous people, particularly in Christian-dominated communities across Northern Nigeria and the Middle-Belt.
“No individual should ever be persecuted or killed on account of their faith. We further call on both federal and state governments to take immediate steps to resettle all internally-displaced persons back to their ancestral homes. Their prolonged stay in IDP camps is a painful indictment on our national conscience and a constant reminder that justice has been delayed.
“These challenging times demand sincerity, courage, unity, and wisdom from Christian leaders across Nigeria. This is a season in which we must speak with one voice, stand shoulder-to-shoulder, and unite our strategies to confront an existential threat to our communities.
“Our strength lies in our unity. Yet, even in the midst of grief, we remain a people of hope. Our God has not abandoned us. This darkness shall not overcome the light of Christ,” Archbishop Daniel Okoh stated.
He urged all leaders to remain steadfast, prayerful, and courageous, saying, “Continue to strengthen the flock entrusted to your care. Continue to sow seeds of hope, even in the soil of sorrow. In God’s time, the dawn shall break, and His light will shine upon our land once again.”
Speaking also, the CAN Chairman North Central Zone, Rev Dr. Jonah Samsom, noted that, “As leaders of Christian Association of Nigeria, we occupy a unique place in the life of the church. We are called not only to shepherd a congregation but also to serve as bridge-linking denominations strengthening relationships and fostering the unity for which Christ earnestly prayed: ‘that they may all be one’ (John 17:21.”
He said “Challenges confronting the church today – social, moral, insecurity and spiritual challenges – demand a united response. Division weakens our witness, but unity magnifies the light of Christ in our communities,” and observed that, their generation is confronted with numerous ideologies that seek to distort biblical truth.
“As leaders of Christian Association of Nigeria, we must anchor ourselves in the Word of God, teaching and upholding sound doctrine with love and integrity. Leadership is influence. We must remain a model of holiness, humility, accountability in all ramifications,” he said.
According to him, “The gospel is not only preached from the pulpit. It is demonstrated through compassion, justice and service. Our communities look to the church for guidance, love and moral clarity.
“Let us strengthen our joint efforts. Together, we can be the healing hands of Christ to a hurting world; in Jesus’ Name.
“As we work together in CAN, may our collaboration reflect Christ’s love, advance His mission and bring revival to our nation,” Rev Dr. Jonah Samsom stated.