The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has expressed concern over the persistent ethnic and religious divisions in the region.
These divisions, according to them, are the major obstacles to development and peaceful coexistence.
Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. Dr John Joseph Hayab, made this known during a dinner ceremony in Kaduna on Monday, attended by CAN chairmen, secretaries, and other Christian leaders.
He lamented that these divisions have significantly contributed to the region’s backwardness, stressing the need for a change in mindset.
“It is disheartening when people perceive us as divided and intolerant. We must usher in a new phase – one of love, respect, and partnership. Our region is blessed, but divisions have cost us dearly. It’s time for a shift in mindset,” he said.
Hayab reaffirmed the new CAN leadership’s commitment to advocating for Northern Christians, promoting unity, and addressing challenges hindering progress. He emphasised that while CAN will continue speaking truth to power, it will do so with love and understanding.
“We will remain a voice for Northern Christians, defenders of truth, and speakers of truth to power. However, we will do so in a way that fosters peace and unity,” he added.
The event also provided a platform for key CAN stakeholders to express their support for Hayab’s leadership while addressing issues surrounding leadership transition.
Leader of the Northern CAN Women’s Wing, Ambassador Elizabeth Azizi, praised Hayab’s leadership, describing him as a capable and visionary leader. She, however, criticised the immediate past CAN leadership under Rev. Yakubu Pam and Secretary Elder Sunday Oibe for overstaying their tenure by two years and nine months, urging them to act with maturity and allow peace to reign.
Similarly, Northern CAN Youth Leader, Evangelist Musa Misal, called on Pam and Oibe to acknowledge that leadership is transient and to hand over all Northern CAN properties across the 19 states and the FCT to the new administration.
“The youths stand firmly with the new leadership and will give him their total support. This is the kind of leader we have long desired,” he said.
The event was attended by high-profile Christian leaders, including the Secretary General of Northern CAN, Bishop Mohammed Naga (Borno State); the Director of Legal and Public Affairs, Dr Barr. Grace Kaka (Bauchi State); and the Director of Ecumenism and Interfaith, Rev. Godwin Adole (Sokoto State).
Others present included the Director of Planning, Research, and Strategy, Rev. Emeka Obianyor; the Director of Youth, Women, and Education, Rev. Fr Prof. Ngbea Gabriel (Benue State); and the Northern CAN Vice Chairman, Rev. Dr Jonah Samson, who is also the Chairman of CAN North Central Zone.
Also in attendance were former ECWA General Secretary Worldwide, Rev. Yunusa Madu; the President of the Pentecostal Bishops Forum and President of the Seat of God Ministries, Kaduna, Bishop Ademola Idowu Tinuoye, among other Christian leaders.
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