The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on leaders across all sectors of the country to demonstrate sacrifice, compassion and responsible leadership as Nigerians grapple with worsening economic hardship and insecurity.
In a goodwill message to Muslims marking this year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebration, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said the festival’s message of faith, obedience and sacrifice should serve as a moral reminder to those in authority at what he described as “a difficult and defining moment” in the nation’s history.
Okoh noted that many Nigerians are facing severe economic realities, including hunger, unpaid school fees, failing businesses and growing uncertainty about the future.
“Today, many Nigerians no longer measure hardship in statistics but in skipped meals, unpaid school fees, shuttered businesses and sleepless nights,” he said.
The CAN president lamented the rising cost of living, insecurity affecting farming communities and the collapse of small businesses under economic pressure, adding that citizens were losing confidence in public leadership.
He stressed that sacrifice should not be borne only by ordinary Nigerians, urging political leaders, government officials, business owners, security agencies and religious organisations to demonstrate honesty, restraint and genuine commitment to the welfare of the people.
“Nigerians need hope they can see, not promises they no longer believe,” Okoh stated, adding that citizens want leadership that listens, acts and shares in the sacrifices faced daily by the masses.
CAN also cautioned Nigerians against allowing hardship to fuel religious, ethnic or regional divisions, noting that poverty and insecurity affect all citizens regardless of background.
“Hunger does not ask for tribe or religion. Poverty does not discriminate. Insecurity threatens everyone,” the statement said.
The Christian body further urged religious leaders to continue promoting peace, moderation and reconciliation amid growing frustration in many communities.
It also appealed to wealthy individuals, corporate organisations and other privileged Nigerians to support vulnerable groups, including widows, orphans, displaced persons and struggling families during the Eid celebrations.
CAN expressed optimism that Nigeria could overcome its present challenges if citizens and leaders embraced the values of sacrifice, justice, compassion and shared humanity.
The association concluded by praying for peace, healing and renewed hope across the country while wishing Muslims a peaceful and joyous Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
