The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has commended the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for the recent arrest of two high-profile leaders of the Ansaru terrorist group.
The association also applauded the Kaduna State governor, Senator Uba Sani, for his efforts in promoting inclusive governance and delivering critical infrastructure across the state.
Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev (Dr) John Joseph Hayab, made these remarks while addressing journalists yesterday in Kaduna, describing the arrests of the terrorist leaders as a major breakthrough in Nigeria’s ongoing war against insurgency and insecurity.
“We do not want to be people who only grumble and accuse,” Rev. Hayab stated. “We want to be people who acknowledge and appreciate when things are done right. The arrest of some of Nigeria’s most wanted terrorists is a significant milestone. The NSA, Nuhu Ribadu, deserves commendation for the deliberate and intelligence-driven operation.”
According to Rev. Hayab, the NSA had earlier disclosed the arrest of Mahmud Muhammad Usman, also known as Abu Bara’a, the self-styled Emir of Ansaru, and his deputy, Mahmud al-Nigeri, alias Mallam Mamuda. The arrests were the result of months of coordinated intelligence operations conducted between May and July 2025 in partnership with security agencies and the armed forces.
Rev. Hayab emphasised the need for sustained intelligence efforts and urged authorities to go further by exposing and prosecuting financiers of terrorism.
“No nation can progress in an atmosphere of division and insecurity. Sponsors of terror must be exposed and brought to justice,” he said.
On governance matters, the Northern CAN chairman praised Governor Sani for initiating various road projects and fostering inclusive development across the state. While acknowledging that some roads still require urgent government attention, Hayab said the ongoing projects are evidence of a government responding to its people’s needs.
“We cannot expect all roads to be fixed at once, but if the projects are executed in phases, Kaduna residents will witness meaningful development in the next one or two years,” he added.
The cleric called on the governor to ensure that inclusiveness, fairness, and equitable distribution of development projects remain central to his administration, warning that past practices of neglect must not be repeated.
On political appointments, Rev. Hayab commended recent efforts to reflect inclusivity but urged the state government to open up more opportunities for competent Christians from Northern communities. He cautioned against using such appointees merely as political tokens or instruments to suppress their constituencies.
“We must ensure that appointees are empowered to serve the common good and not used against their own people,” he said.
Rev. Hayab also called for unity among Nigerians, irrespective of religious or ethnic affiliations, stressing that constructive engagement and national cohesion remain vital to sustained progress.
“Silence emboldens mischief-makers, but openness and appreciation encourage our leaders to do more,” he remarked.
