Northern CAN calls for unity, justice, hope

From Noah Ebije, Kaduna

Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Rev. Yakubu Pam, has called on Christians to remain steadfast in faith, united in purpose, and hopeful for national renewal despite the challenges facing the country.

In a New Year message marking the beginning of 2026, Rev. Pam expressed gratitude to God for sustaining the Church through the trials of the past year, noting that despite economic hardship, insecurity, and social uncertainty, Christians across Northern Nigeria continued to pray, serve, comfort the afflicted, and proclaim hope.

He said the preservation of lives and strengthening of communities were reasons for the thanksgiving, giving all glory to God for His mercy.

Acknowledging the realities confronting the nation, Rev. Pam stated that Nigeria is in need of healing economically, socially, morally, and spiritually.

He emphasised that Christians while citizens of heaven, must remain actively engaged in the nation’s challenges, including insecurity, unemployment, rising living costs, and communal tensions.

He urged believers not to succumb to despair or bitterness, but to continue praying without ceasing, speaking the truth with wisdom, and serving as models of peace, integrity, and love.

He warned against allowing frustration to silence the Church’s moral voice or redefine its faith.

Rev. Pam reaffirmed prayers for leaders at all levels of government and called for leadership founded on justice, equity, accountability, and the sanctity of life.

According to him, sustainable national renewal would not come through policies alone but through moral responsibility and good governance.

He also appealed for deeper unity among Christians across denominations, stressing that the magnitude of current challenges requires believers to stand together, pray together, serve together, and speak with one voice on critical issues.

“As we step into the year ahead, let us not lose heart, withdraw from righteousness, or surrender our moral voice,” he said, adding that the Church should be known for love that heals divisions, hope that uplifts communities, and faith expressed through service.

Quoting Isaiah 60:1, Rev. Pam encouraged Christians to remain confident that God is still at work in the nation. He prayed for wisdom, courage, and grace for believers, and for healing, justice, and renewed hope across Nigeria.