Christian Body Raises Concern Over Rising Economic Pressure
The Christian Association of Nigeria has urged political, business, and religious leaders to share in the sacrifices Nigerians face amid worsening economic hardship and insecurity.
In its Eid-el-Kabir message released on Wednesday, the association warned that millions of citizens now struggle with fear, hunger, and uncertainty.
CAN President Daniel Okoh signed the statement.
Eid-el-Kabir Should Inspire National Reflection
The Christian body described Eid-el-Kabir as more than a religious celebration.
According to CAN, the season should encourage national reflection, compassion, and responsible leadership.
“The deeper meaning of Eid-el-Kabir becomes even more significant at a moment like this,” the association stated.
CAN stressed that ordinary Nigerians should not carry the burden of sacrifice alone.
“Leadership must also reflect sacrifice through honesty, restraint, compassion, accountability and a visible commitment to the wellbeing of the people,” the statement added.
CAN Highlights Growing Struggles Across Nigeria
The association said many families now battle rising living costs daily.
It noted that several households struggle to afford food and other basic needs.
CAN also pointed to worsening insecurity in farming communities.
According to the group, many farmers now fear returning to their farmlands because of attacks and violence.
In addition, the body said small businesses continue to suffer under economic pressure while many young Nigerians feel uncertain about the future.
Religious Body Calls for Responsible Leadership
CAN urged leaders across different sectors to act with urgency and empathy.
The association asked government officials, business leaders, security agencies, and religious institutions to rise above blame-shifting and selfish interests.
“This is a time for leaders across government, politics, business, security institutions and religious organisations to rise above indifference,” the group said.
CAN added that Nigerians now demand visible action rather than repeated promises.
“Nigerians need hope they can genuinely see and feel, not promises they no longer trust,” the statement read.
The body further stressed that citizens want leaders who listen, act responsibly, and share in public hardship.
CAN Warns Against Division
The association also warned Nigerians against allowing hardship to fuel ethnic or religious tensions.
“Hunger does not ask for tribe or religion. Poverty does not discriminate. Insecurity threatens everyone,” CAN stated.
The group warned that division would only worsen the country’s challenges.
Meanwhile, Archbishop Okoh urged religious leaders to continue promoting peace, tolerance, and reconciliation across communities.
Call for Support for Vulnerable Nigerians
CAN encouraged wealthy Nigerians, corporate organisations, and public-spirited individuals to support vulnerable citizens during the Eid-el-Kabir season.
The association specifically mentioned widows, orphans, displaced persons, and struggling families.
“The spirit of sacrifice becomes truly meaningful when it helps restore dignity, hope and relief to others,” the statement added.
CAN also expressed optimism that Nigeria could overcome hardship through justice, compassion, sacrifice, and unity.
The body prayed for peace, healing, wisdom for leaders, and renewed hope for young Nigerians.
