The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on the Federal Government to take swift and decisive action to safeguard citizens amid rising insecurity across the country, insisting that the situation now demands an immediate, excuse-free response from national leaders.
CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, made the appeal on Wednesday during the opening ceremony of the 32nd Triennial General Assembly of the Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN), held at the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, Wuse II, Abuja.
Addressing delegates, clerics, and leaders of member churches, Okoh warned that Nigeria’s worsening security challenges require unified Christian advocacy and firm national responsibility. Speaking on the Assembly’s theme, “Demand for Justice and Righteousness,” drawn from Amos 5:24, he said the crisis threatens the nation’s soul and places moral demands on the government.
“The government has a constitutional, moral, and sacred responsibility to protect the lives and property of all Nigerians—without discrimination, without delay, and without excuses,” he stated.
Okoh urged the CCN to continue standing with CAN in pushing for stronger government action, stressing that the Church must remain steadfast in seeking justice for communities affected by violence.
He outlined several urgent measures expected from the government, including strengthening security institutions, prosecuting perpetrators of violent crimes, supporting displaced families, rebuilding devastated communities, and addressing the root causes of insecurity.
“Our voices must not waver. Our message must remain consistent and sincere,” he added, encouraging churches to defend the vulnerable and demonstrate Christlike values through their interventions.
The CAN President reminded attendees that true Christian witness is measured not only by prayer or worship but by a commitment to justice, compassion, and righteousness.
Okoh also commended the CCN for its decades-long role as Nigeria’s oldest ecumenical body, noting its enduring contributions to unity, justice, and peace. Reaffirming CAN’s partnership with the Council, he said both organisations remain committed to promoting moral integrity and healing in the nation.
“Together, we will continue to uphold the unity of the Body of Christ, defend the oppressed, and advance the values of God’s kingdom on earth,” he said.
He then declared open the 32nd Triennial General Assembly and the CCN’s 96th Anniversary Celebrations, expressing hope that the sessions would inspire renewed commitment to building a peaceful and just Nigeria.
