The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has marked its 50th anniversary with a call to politicians to prioritize issue-based campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections. CAN President, Daniel Okoh, an archbishop, made the call during a press conference in Abuja. He emphasized that Nigerians have witnessed enough bloodshed and division during election periods and urged politicians to resist the temptation to weaponize religion, ethnicity, and regional sentiments.
CAN was founded in 1976, and its 50th anniversary celebration has the theme: “CAN at 50: Walking Together in Faith.” Okoh stated that the association would continue to support credible democratic processes, civic education, peaceful elections, and electoral integrity. He also emphasized that political leaders must take responsibility for the conduct of their supporters and discourage incitement, hate speech, violence, and intimidation.
Okoh highlighted that CAN's unity has never meant uniformity, but recognition that there are issues bigger than denominational differences. He noted that the association was established because its forebears understood that there were moments when the Church must rise above denominational boundaries. The cleric paid tribute to founding fathers and past presidents of the association, saying their labor was not in vain.
The CAN president also addressed the issue of insecurity in Nigeria, stating that the primary responsibility of government is to protect life and property. He noted that citizens should never have to negotiate with terrorists, bandits, or kidnappers simply to remain alive. Okoh acknowledged efforts of President Bola Tinubu to reduce insecurity but said more needed to be done.
Okoh clarified that defending Christians does not mean fighting government or hating Muslims. He stated that CAN would continue to defend the rights and welfare of Christians but would also speak out against attacks on Muslims and innocent Nigerians. He appealed to the media to resist reducing every Nigerian conflict to a simplistic Christian-versus-Muslim narrative.
The CAN president expressed concern over economic hardship, stating that rising costs of living have placed enormous pressure on families. He noted that the Church sees these realities every day and that every economic policy must ultimately be judged by its impact on the people. Okoh listed achievements under his leadership, including strengthened national and international partnerships and advocacy for vulnerable communities.
CAN's 50th anniversary celebrations will feature various activities, including a road walk, anniversary crusade, football competition, ecumenical workshop, Bible quiz, charity visit, women and youth assembly, jubilee colloquium, music cantata, awards, and presentation of a CAN history book. The celebrations will conclude with a thanksgiving service on October 18.
Key points
- CAN warns politicians against weaponizing religion, ethnicity, and regional sentiments ahead of 2027 general elections
- Association celebrates 50 years of promoting unity among Christians
- CAN president calls for issue-based campaigns and credible democratic processes
