By Abdurrahman Abdullahi, Kaduna
May 13, 2025
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), representing the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has raised the alarm over rising insecurity, religious discrimination, and systemic marginalization of Christians, warning that these challenges pose a serious threat to Nigeria’s national unity and stability.
Speaking during a strategic meeting with the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, in Abuja, CAN urged the federal government to take urgent steps to address what it described as deepening ethno-religious divisions across the North.
Also present at the high-level interface were the Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, and the Director General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ambassador Mohammed Mohammed.
In a communiqué signed by the Chairman of CAN in the 19 Northern States, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, and Secretary-General, Bishop Mohammed Naga, the Christian body warned that continued marginalization and violence against Christians in the region could further escalate tensions.
The communique condemned inflammatory sermons by some religious leaders, calling them a major driver of ethno-religious violence. CAN urged the government to regulate religious preaching and enhance public sensitization across all faiths.
CAN also criticized the misuse of social media to incite violence and spread misinformation, calling on authorities to equip security agencies with advanced digital tools to trace and prosecute perpetrators.
The group expressed concern over the growing population of internally displaced persons (IDPs), warning that failure to resettle and rehabilitate victims of violence could fuel a dangerous cycle of trauma and revenge.
While commending President Bola Tinubu for establishing the National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children, CAN called for the agency’s mandate to be expanded to include rehabilitation and adoption programs.
On the reintegration of ex-Boko Haram militants, CAN described current processes as flawed, alleging that some former fighters have become security threats in their host communities. The body called for more rigorous de-radicalization programs before reintegration.
CAN also highlighted cases of alleged denial of land for church construction, discrimination in appointments and tertiary education, and the forceful conversion of underage Christian girls. The group called on the federal government to investigate these violations and uphold constitutional rights to freedom of religion and association.
To foster lasting peace, CAN proposed the creation of a North-wide interfaith stakeholders’ forum, bringing together respected Muslim and Christian leaders to develop joint peace building strategies.
The association also recommended increased youth sensitization on drug abuse and a greater role for religious institutions in national security collaboration.
Despite the grave concerns raised, CAN expressed appreciation for the opportunity to engage directly with top security officials and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting efforts aimed at preserving peace and unity.
“We consider this engagement a bold step toward securing the nation through open, honest, and inclusive dialogue,” the communique read.
The meeting is part of ongoing consultations by the NSA to engage critical stakeholders nationwide amid growing security and socio-religious challenges.
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