Christian leaders across the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory have adopted a new identity, unveiling the Forum of Northern Christians.
The body is also known as the Northern Christian Association.
The leaders said the change clarified their regional mandate while preserving loyalty to the Christian Association of Nigeria.
The decision was reached during a stakeholders’ meeting in Kaduna.
State chairmen, secretaries, and representatives of youth and women wings attended the gathering.
The event also marked one year in office for northern chairman, Joseph Hayab.
Previously referred to as Northern CAN, the group said the label caused confusion about its status.
Hayab explained that the new name reflects a return to historical roots, not a separation.
He traced the association’s origin to 1964 in Kaduna as the Northern Christian Association.
According to him, the body later evolved into the national structure in 1976.
He reaffirmed allegiance to CAN under its current president, Daniel Okoh.
“We remain members of CAN,” Hayab said, stressing unity with the national leadership.
He noted that the word “Nigeria” was omitted to avoid misinterpretation.
The Forum, he added, has been formally registered and incorporated.
The leaders outlined priority issues including religious freedom and equitable access to education.
They cited shortages of Christian Religious Knowledge teachers in parts of the region.
Concerns were also raised over admission opportunities for Christian children.
Former General Secretary, Samuel Salifu, provided historical context.
He recalled that the regional association predated the national body’s formation.
Salifu said the change addresses misconceptions of rivalry with CAN.
Elder Emmanuel Dziggau described the 1964 formation as a survival response.
In a virtual address, Yusuf Turaki highlighted insecurity affecting Christian communities.
He urged advocacy for constitutional protections and lawful safeguards.
Stakeholders reaffirmed commitment to justice, equality, and peaceful coexistence.
They said the new identity strengthens clarity of purpose rather than division.
