The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has stated that while the nation has recorded undeniable progress since independence, true national development must be measured by the food on every table and the security of every community.
The President of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, in a statement on Wednesday, acknowledged the nation’s resilience through decades of challenges but insisted that the current economic reforms have brought temporary hardship for millions of citizens.
He called for a renewed commitment to nation-building, emphasising security, youth empowerment, and unity above ethnic and religious divides.
Okoh noted that 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, while acknowledging the progress in sectors like education, healthcare, and telecommunications, was quick to highlight the stark realities facing ordinary Nigerians.
“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 body offered prayers for the nation’s leaders, asking God to grant them the wisdom, courage, and strength to drive the reforms to a point where Nigerians will rejoice.
On the issue of security, CAN described the situation as an urgent concern, 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.
CAN called for a national renewal of commitment to justice, equity, and good governance, while also challenging citizens to embrace hard work, pay their taxes faithfully, support local production, and show love to one another as one people under God.
“The dawn of a new Nigeria is possible. With God’s help and our shared determination, we shall build a nation where peace, prosperity, and unity flourish for generations to come,” the CAN President stated.
