Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has declared that while the country has recorded undeniable progress since its independence, true national development must be measured by the food on the people’s table and their security.
The president of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, in a statement he issued yesterday on the country’s 65th Independence, acknowledged the citizens’ resilience through decades of challenges but insisted that the current economic reforms had brought serious hardship to millions of the people.
Okoh, therefore, called for a renewed commitment to nation-building, emphasising security, youth empowerment and unity above ethnic and religious divides.
The eminent cleric said the Independence anniversary offers a chance to reflect on Nigeria’s journey, saying, “CAN recalls the resilience of Nigerians who have endured civil war, years of instability and recurring economic and social crises.”
The CAN president, who admitted undeniable progress in sectors such as education, healthcare and telecommunications, however, stressed that, “We must also be honest about the unfinished business of nation-building. Economic reforms, while necessary, have brought temporary hardship for millions. The rising cost of living, food insecurity, unemployment and inflation continue to weigh heavily on households,” he stated.
The Christian group asked God to grant the country’s leaders the wisdom, courage and strength to drive the reforms to the benefit of most Nigerians.
On insecurity, CAN described the situation as worrisome, noting that terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping have caused deep pain and displacement.
“While strides have been made in restoring safety, more still needs to be done to guarantee the protection of lives and property,” Okoh said.
He called for sustained collaboration between security agencies, communities, and faith-based organisations to consolidate peace across the country.
While identifying young people as Nigeria’s greatest asset, CAN expressed concern over the persistent brain drain, where many of the nation’s brightest minds leave for opportunities abroad.
“Nigeria must create the enabling environment that encourages its citizens, especially the youth, to stay, thrive, and contribute meaningfully to national development.
“Investment in education, innovation, and youth empowerment must remain a national priority, ensuring that no young Nigerian is left behind.
“We call on all Nigerians, leaders and citizens alike, to rise above ethnic, religious, and political divides and to work together for the common good,” he stated.
