The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s initiatives to tackle the rising wave of banditry, terrorism, and other forms of insecurity across the country, while urging the government to intensify its efforts.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of a meeting of the Nigerian Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) in Abuja, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of CAN, highlighted the human and economic toll of insecurity on Nigerians.
He noted that while lives are being lost daily, the broader consequences extend to economic stagnation, as farmers are unable to access their farmlands, traders struggle with rising operational challenges, and potential investors are deterred by uncertainty.
“Nigeria continues to grapple with insecurity that threatens our collective survival and national cohesion.
“Banditry, kidnapping for ransom, violent extremism, and other forms of criminality have spread across the country, leaving sorrow, fear, and displacement in their wake, ”Archbishop Okoh said.
”Families are mourning, communities are being deserted, and citizens are increasingly anxious about their safety – at home, on farms, on highways, and even in places of worship, ” he added.
Archbishop Okoh stressed that insecurity is not only a humanitarian crisis but also an economic one.
“Beyond the human tragedy, insecurity is crippling our economy. These realities continue to deepen poverty, hunger, and frustration – conditions that further fuel instability,” he added.
While acknowledging the constitutional responsibility of the government to protect lives and property, the CAN President emphasised the unique role of religious leaders in fostering social cohesion.
He commended the Tinubu administration for its renewed initiatives to strengthen the nation’s security architecture but encouraged further action.
“Faith institutions remain among the most trusted and far-reaching structures in Nigeria. Pulpits, mosques, and community networks shape values, guide behaviour, and can either calm tensions or escalate distrust.
“Faith-based organisations hold immense potential for strengthening security and sustaining peace.
”Because of their deep community roots, moral authority, and trusted presence, they are natural bridges to the hearts and minds of citizens, ” he said.
He called on government at all levels to deepen collaboration with faith-based organisations, including NIREC, to mobilise communities, promote dialogue, and nurture social harmony.
“Working hand-in-hand, sharing insights, coordinating initiatives, and jointly seeking solutions will produce far greater impact.
”Such partnership enhances public trust and ensures that peacebuilding strategies are people-centred and inclusive,” Okoh said.
The CAN President also stressed the importance of justice in sustaining peace, calling for accountability for perpetrators of violence, support for victims, and reassurance to communities that the rule of law protects every citizen equally.
“As religious leaders, we must intensify prayers alongside action. We must continue to use our influence to encourage citizens to reject violence, resist misinformation, cooperate with lawful authorities, and uphold the enduring values of honesty, compassion, and national unity.
”Our unity across faith lines is, in itself, a message of hope to a nation weary of fear and division,” he added.
Archbishop Okoh reaffirmed CAN’s commitment to support NIREC and collaborate with the government in restoring peace and security nationwide.
