Ash Wednesday: CAN Tasks Federal Government Over Policy Implementation, Economic Hardship

As millions of Christians in Nigeria joined their counterparts worldwide to mark Ash Wednesday, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has urged the federal government and political leaders to move beyond policy formulation and ensure transparent implementation that brings tangible relief to struggling citizens.

In a press statement signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the umbrella body for Christians in Nigeria acknowledged the severe economic pressures currently confronting Nigerian households, calling on leaders to be intentionally inclusive in their decision-making processes.

“Nigeria is passing through a challenging period. Many households are struggling with the rising cost of living, uncertain job opportunities, and daily economic pressures.

“In several parts of the country, security concerns continue to affect communities and test the confidence of citizens,” he said.

The religious body emphasised that the season of Lent should inspire both leaders and citizens to reflect on the direction of the nation and their respective roles in shaping it.

Okoh stressed that Nigeria’s problem is not a lack of policies but a failure of implementation.

“The Christian Association of Nigeria urges leaders at all levels to move beyond drafting policies and focus on implementing them effectively.

“Nigeria does not lack policies; the real challenge is ensuring they are carried out fairly, transparently, and in ways that bring real relief to citizens,” Okoh said.

CAN further called on political officeholders to be mindful of Nigeria’s diversity and ensure that government programmes reach households, young people, and communities as intended.

The organisation also seized the opportunity to appeal to citizens to reject division, violence, and the spread of false information.

“Our diversity, across faiths, ethnicities, and cultures, remains one of Nigeria’s greatest strengths. Continued cooperation among religious communities, mutual respect, and responsible civic conduct are essential for maintaining peace and national stability,” he stated.

Addressing Nigerian youths, CAN described them as the bedrock of the nation’s future, urging them to channel their energy into innovation and productive enterprise.

“To our young people, whose creativity and determination shape the nation’s future, this period should be a reminder to channel your energy into innovation, productive enterprise, and responsible participation in public life,” Okoh said.

The CAN president concluded with a prayer for national renewal, expressing hope that the Ash Wednesday observance would strengthen the collective commitment to justice, compassion, and responsible citizenship.

“As we mark this Ash Wednesday, may it renew our collective commitment to justice, compassion, and responsible citizenship. Nigeria’s progress will depend on what all of us, leaders and citizens alike, choose to build together,” he said.

Ash Wednesday traditionally marks the beginning of Lent, a 40-day period of fasting, prayer, and reflection observed by Christians worldwide.