CAN Calls for National Unity and Hope During Easter Celebrations
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has delivered a compelling and timely message to all Nigerians as the nation observes the Easter period. In a profound statement, the association has urged citizens to make a conscious decision to rise above deep-seated ethnic and religious differences, standing together in solidarity to confront the myriad challenges that hinder progress and development across the country.
A Message of Collective Choice and National Rebirth
CAN emphasized that by making this pivotal choice for unity, Nigeria will undoubtedly experience a resurgence and rebirth. The message, titled "Easter: 'Nigeria Must Rise, This Is Our Moment'", was articulated by CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh. He passionately appealed to Nigerians, reminding them that this is not a time to abandon hope in one another or succumb to despair.
Archbishop Okoh acknowledged the presence of forces intent on perpetuating fear and division within society. However, he strongly advocated for resistance through courage, solidarity, and a shared belief in the collective strength of the Nigerian people, rather than through panic or further fragmentation.
Addressing National Weary and Fostering Hope
The CAN President observed that across the diverse landscapes of Nigeria, many citizens are experiencing weariness, anxiety, and a pervasive sense of insecurity. For some, hope has diminished to a faint glimmer. Yet, he pointed to the Easter narrative as a powerful testament that this is not the end. The resurrection story symbolizes the possibility of rising, rebuilding, and moving forward together as a unified nation.
Okoh noted that while difficult times have the potential to divide communities, they also possess the unique power to unite them. He stressed that if Nigerians consciously choose unity over suspicion and actively look out for one another, transformative change becomes not merely a possibility, but an inevitable certainty.
The Enduring Truth of Easter for Nigeria
"At Easter, as we mark the resurrection of our Lord, Jesus Christ, we are reminded of a simple, enduring truth: no matter how hard life has been, rising again is always possible," Archbishop Okoh stated. He elaborated that this is the core meaning of Easter—hope returning when it seemed irrevocably lost, life emerging after despair, and new beginnings following profoundly difficult moments. He affirmed that this message speaks directly and powerfully to the current situation in Nigeria today.
A Call to Action for Leadership and the Church
The CAN President issued a clear call to action for those in positions of leadership across the nation. He described this period as a test of true purpose, where people must feel leadership through tangible actions and empathy, not just hear empty promises. Citizens are actively searching for visible efforts aimed at genuinely improving their lives and livelihoods, which is fundamental for a nation to begin its ascent.
For the Church, Archbishop Okoh highlighted this as a critical moment to stand firm and speak with clarity and conviction. With many people desperately searching for hope they can hold onto, the Church must be present and active—standing alongside those who are struggling, offering clear direction, and helping to illuminate the path forward for the nation.
This Easter message from CAN serves as a poignant reminder of the power of faith, unity, and collective resilience in facing national adversities, urging all Nigerians to embrace hope and work together for a brighter, more united future.
