Eid-el-Kabir: CAN Urges Sacrifice, Compassion, National Healing

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has extended warm felicitations to Muslims across the country and around the world on the occasion of this year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebration, urging leaders and citizens alike to embrace the festival’s deeper lessons of sacrifice, compassion and national renewal.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, described Eid-el-Kabir as a solemn reminder of faith, obedience and devotion to God, while drawing attention to the harsh realities confronting many Nigerians.

He noted that a growing number of citizens are struggling with rising living costs, unpaid school fees, collapsing businesses, abandoned farmlands, and persistent insecurity across communities.

“Sacrifice must not remain a burden carried only by ordinary citizens. Leadership must also reflect sacrifice through honesty, restraint, service, compassion, and visible commitment to the wellbeing of the people,” Okoh said.

The association called on leaders across government, politics, business, security institutions and religious organisations to set aside self-interest and work toward restoring public trust, easing hardship and delivering tangible hope to citizens.

CAN also warned against the risk of economic hardship and insecurity deepening religious, ethnic or regional divisions, stressing that poverty and hunger affect all Nigerians regardless of background.

“Hunger does not ask for tribe or religion. Poverty does not discriminate. Insecurity threatens everyone,” the association noted.

Okoh urged religious leaders to continue promoting peace, moderation and reconciliation, particularly at a time of rising frustration in many communities.

He also called on wealthy Nigerians, corporate organisations and well-meaning individuals to extend support to the poor, widows, orphans, displaced persons and struggling families during the festive period.

The CAN president emphasised the need for national healing and renewal, stating that Nigeria can overcome its current challenges by embracing justice, compassion, sacrifice and shared humanity.

CAN prayed for wisdom for leaders, protection for vulnerable communities, strength for struggling families and renewed hope for Nigerian youth, while wishing Muslim faithful a peaceful and joyful Eid-el-Kabir celebration.