CAN Urges Tinubu to Amplify Anti-Terror Efforts Amid Rising Insecurity

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on President Bola Tinubu to intensify efforts in combating escalating insecurity, which is exacerbating poverty and hunger across the nation. During a meeting of the Nigerian Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) held in Abuja, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of CAN, acknowledged the government’s initiatives but emphasized that more decisive actions are needed to address the alarming levels of violence and instability.

In his address, Okoh highlighted the severe impact of insecurity on the economy, noting that farmers are unable to access their lands and traders are facing increased operational challenges. This situation is discouraging potential investments and contributing to a cycle of poverty and hunger, which further fuels unrest.

“Nigeria continues to grapple with insecurity that threatens our collective survival and national cohesion,” Okoh stated. He described the rampant issues of banditry, kidnapping for ransom, violent extremism, and other criminal activities as spreading across the country, leaving communities devastated.

The Archbishop pointed out that the daily loss of innocent lives has reached alarming levels. Families are mourning, communities are being deserted, and citizens are living in fear for their safety, whether at home, on farms, on highways, or even in places of worship.

While acknowledging the constitutional duty of the government to protect lives and property, Okoh emphasized the unique role of religious leaders in fostering mutual trust and harmony within communities. “We acknowledge the renewed initiatives to strengthen security architecture in order to combat the activities of terrorists and bandits across the country, and we encourage His Excellency to do more,” he said.

Faith-based organizations, according to Okoh, hold significant potential for enhancing security and promoting peace due to their deep community roots and moral authority. He urged the government to collaborate closely with these organizations, including NIREC, to leverage their influence in mobilizing communities and fostering dialogue.

“Working hand-in-hand – sharing insights, coordinating initiatives, and jointly seeking solutions – will produce far greater impact,” Okoh noted. This partnership could enhance public trust and ensure that peacebuilding strategies are inclusive and responsive to community needs.

He reaffirmed the commitment of CAN to support NIREC and collaborate with the government in restoring peace and security throughout Nigeria. However, he stressed that peace cannot be sustained without justice. “Perpetrators of violence – and those who finance or encourage them – must be held accountable,” he stated.

Victims of violence need support and rehabilitation, and communities must be assured that the rule of law protects every citizen equally. Okoh called for a dual approach, combining prayer with action, urging religious leaders to influence citizens to reject violence, counter misinformation, and uphold 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,” Okoh concluded, emphasizing the importance of collective action to build a safer and more stable Nigeria.