By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has vowed to focus on its mandate rather than engaging in unnecessary exchanges with critics, saying its work will speak for itself.
Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. Dr. John Joseph Hayab, stated this during a dinner ceremony in Kaduna on Monday, attended by CAN chairmen, secretaries, and other religious leaders. He reaffirmed the association’s commitment to truth, inclusivity, and addressing challenges hindering the region’s progress.
According to Hayab, the new leadership of CAN in the North will be a strong advocate for Northern Christians, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights protected. He urged the Christian community to prioritize unity and collaboration for sustainable development.
“We will remain a voice for Northern Christians, defenders of truth, and speakers of truth to power. However, we will do so with love and understanding,” he said.
He decried the deep-seated religious and ethnic divisions in Northern Nigeria, describing them as obstacles to growth and peaceful coexistence.
“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 change in mindset,” he added.
Speaking with journalists after the event, the leader of the Northern CAN Women’s Wing, Ambassador Elizabeth Azizi, expressed confidence in Hayab’s leadership, describing him as a capable leader who will advance the Christian cause in the North.
She also criticized the previous CAN leadership under Rev. Yakubu Pam and Secretary Elder Sunday Oibe for exceeding their tenure by two years and nine months, urging them to act with maturity and avoid dragging the Christian body into unnecessary disputes.
In the same vein, Northern CAN Youth Leader, Evangelist Musa Misal, reaffirmed youth support for Hayab and called on Pam and Oibe to accept the transition in good faith. He demanded that all Northern CAN properties across the 19 states and the FCT be handed over to the new leadership immediately.
“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 had in attendance top Christian leaders from across the region, 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).
Also present were 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.
Other notable figures included 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 others.
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