From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
President, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh, has described the new year, 2023, as a year of golden opportunities for Nigeria, particularly as it will provide opportunity for Nigerians to choose new political leaders through the instrumentality of the ballot.
Archbishop Okoh, in his new year message, thus challenged Nigerians not to miss or misuse the opportunity to choose leaders with focus and compassion who will lead Nigeria out of dungeon of underdevelopment and backwardness into the path of greatness.
He said the out gone year 2022, was one too many as a result of the seeming unabated climate of fear and uncertainty not just in Nigeria, but across the world.
“However, as Christians, we testify of God’s kindness and faithfulness in 2022, considering the unconscionable attempts by criminal elements wielding sophisticated weapons to stake a claim on our lives and freedom as well as the steady decline in the national economy,” he said.
The CAN President appealed to security agencies not to relent in their efforts to ensure safety and security across the country; and also support the conduct of peaceful general elections in 2023.
“Our politicians should realise that we don’t have any other country but Nigeria. This reality should inspire them to be more responsible in playing politics with the best interest of the masses at heart.
“In the same vein, religious leaders should know that there is life after general elections of 2023. Therefore, our speeches and conduct should focus on encouraging our people to build a Nigeria where equity, justice and fairness will reign supreme.
“While we look forward to having a better Nigeria, let us continue praying that the Lord will strengthen our present political leaders to oversee the elections and a successful transition to a new administration in 2023.”
He reassured that CAN will continue to partner with government, civil societies and development partners, to build a peaceful and prosperous country.
He also promised that CAN will remain non-partisan and will neither interfere in the duties of government agencies, but will always promote and support good governance at all levels, and will continue to raise prophetic voice when and where necessary.
The CAN President, thus, urged the government to do more to stop the downward trend of the economy by checking the sources of leakages and wastage of the national resources in 2023.