Eid-el-Kabir: CAN, MUSWEN urge leaders to tackle hardship, insecurity

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN) have called on political leaders and authorities at all levels to address worsening economic hardship and insecurity confronting Nigerians.

The calls were contained in separate statements issued on Wednesday to mark the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

In its message, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, congratulated Muslim faithful in Nigeria and across the world, urging leaders to demonstrate sacrifice, compassion, and accountability in governance.

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According to the Christian body, Eid-el-Kabir symbolises faith, obedience, and sacrifice, values which it said are urgently needed as Nigeria battles economic and social challenges.

CAN lamented that many Nigerians are struggling with rising living costs, insecurity, and economic instability.

“Today, many Nigerians no longer measure hardship in statistics but in skipped meals, unpaid school fees, shuttered businesses and sleepless nights,” the statement read.

The association noted that insecurity had forced many farmers away from their farmlands, while small businesses continue to collapse under economic pressure.

It added that many young Nigerians are increasingly uncertain about their future.

CAN stressed that sacrifice should not be demanded only from ordinary citizens, insisting that leaders must also demonstrate honesty, restraint, service, and commitment to the well-being of the people.

The association urged leaders in government, business, politics, security institutions, and religious organisations to rise above blame games and focus on solving the country’s pressing challenges.

“Nigerians need hope they can see, not promises they no longer believe,” CAN stated.

The body also warned against allowing hardship and frustration to fuel ethnic, religious, or regional divisions, stressing that insecurity and poverty affect all Nigerians regardless of background.

CAN further called on religious leaders to continue promoting peace, reconciliation, and truth amid growing tension across the country.

It encouraged wealthy individuals, corporate organisations, and well-meaning Nigerians to support vulnerable persons, including widows, orphans, displaced persons, and struggling families, during the festive period.

The association expressed optimism that Nigeria would overcome its present difficulties through justice, compassion, and collective sacrifice.

Similarly, the Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN) congratulated Muslims on the successful completion of the 2026 Hajj and the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

In a statement signed by its President, Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo, and Executive Secretary, Professor Wole Abbas, MUSWEN described Eid-el-Kabir as a period of reflection, obedience, and sacrifice inspired by Prophet Ibrahim.

“We urge all Muslims to embody the core values of selflessness, patience and charity, especially by sharing meals and extending kindness to the less privileged during this sacred season,” the organisation stated.

MUSWEN, however, expressed concern over persistent insecurity in different parts of the country, noting that peace and security are essential for economic growth and national development.

The organisation called on the Federal Government, state governments, and security agencies to intensify efforts to protect lives and property.

It advocated a more proactive and intelligence-driven approach to tackling banditry, kidnapping, and insurgency.

MUSWEN also urged Nigerians to remain law-abiding, vigilant, and supportive of security agencies by reporting suspicious activities within their communities.

According to the organisation, national security is a collective responsibility that requires both prayers and active civic participation.

The Muslim body further emphasised the need for good governance, equitable distribution of resources, and policies that prioritise economic empowerment and access to basic infrastructure.

“MUSWEN urges those in authority to prioritise the welfare of the masses and ensure that the dividends of democracy translate into tangible benefits for all Nigerians irrespective of religion, ethnicity or political affiliation,” the statement added.

The organisation also called on Muslims in the South West to remain peaceful, contribute positively to national development, and continue praying for the country and its leaders.