The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has congratulated Nigerians on the occasion of the nation’s 65th independence anniversary, calling for more sacrifice among the citizens.
In a statement on Wednesday, CAN’s President, Daniel Okoh, said the nation’s challenges could be overcome by patriotism and faith in God.
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“As a faith community, CAN believes that the challenges we face can be overcome with collective sacrifice, patriotism, and trust in God.
“We, therefore, call on all Nigerians, leaders and citizens alike to rise above ethnic, religious, and political divides, and to work together for the common good,” the statement read.
The umbrella body for all Christians, however, decried the security situation in the country, calling on the Federal Government to tackle the myriad of challenges.
The CAN President lauded the resilience of Nigerians, recalling how they “endured civil war, years of instability, and recurring economic and social crises.”
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“In spite of these difficulties, our people have shown remarkable courage and faith, sustaining hope in the promise of a better Nigeria.
“We acknowledge the undeniable progress recorded in education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, telecommunications, and other sectors over the decades.
“From a handful of schools and institutions at independence, our country today boasts thousands, producing generations of young men and women who continue to shape the nation’s future,” Okoh stated.
Tinubu Reforms
He commended the economic reforms embarked upon by the President Bola Tinubu administration, describing it as a necessity.
Okoh, however, lamented that the reforms have brought untold hardship on Nigerians.
“Yet, 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. True progress must be measured not only by statistics but by the food on every table, the security of every community, and the opportunities available to every child.
“We pray that God will grant our leaders the wisdom, courage, and strength to drive the reforms to a point where Nigerians will rejoice, and may He protect them from sycophants who do not mean well for our nation,” he added.
According to him, security remains an urgent concern. Terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and communal conflicts have caused deep pain and displacement.
Okoh stated that more still needs to be done to guarantee the protection of lives and property.
He called for a sustained collaboration between security agencies, communities, and faith-based organisations to consolidate peace across the country.
