The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has urged the Federal Government to prioritise the welfare of citizens as the country marks 65 years of independence, warning that progress cannot be measured by numbers alone but by the realities in homes across the nation.
Delivering his Independence Day message in Abuja on Wednesday, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said the government’s economic reforms had created temporary hardship, with inflation, food insecurity and unemployment weighing heavily on millions of families.
“We must be honest about the unfinished business of nation-building. Economic reforms are necessary, but they have brought temporary hardship for millions of Nigerians,” Archbishop Okoh stated.
“The rising cost of living, food insecurity, unemployment and inflation continue to weigh heavily on households. True progress must be measured not only by statistics, but by the food on every table, the security of every community and the opportunities available to every child,” he added.
Archbishop Okoh called on Nigerians to put aside political, ethnic and religious differences and work together for the common good. He also urged leaders to remain focused and resist sycophants “who do not mean well for our nation.”
On insecurity, the CAN leader noted that banditry, kidnapping and communal conflicts remain major threats to lives and property, stressing that only sustained collaboration between security agencies, communities and faith-based organisations can effectively address the crisis.
He also expressed concern over the continued brain drain, saying Nigeria risks losing its best talent if conditions at home do not improve.
“We also recognise that young people are Nigeria’s greatest asset. Their energy, creativity and determination hold the key to a better tomorrow. Yet the persistent brain drain, where many of our brightest minds leave for opportunities abroad, remains a critical challenge,” Okoh said.
“Nigeria must create the enabling environment that encourages its citizens, especially the youth, to stay, thrive and contribute meaningfully to national development. Investment in education, innovation and youth empowerment must remain a national priority,” he added.
As the country marked the 65th anniversary of independence, Okoh called for renewed commitment to unity and civic responsibility.
“Let us embrace hard work, pay our taxes faithfully, support local production and show love to one another as one people under God. The dawn of a new Nigeria is possible. With God’s help and our shared determination, we shall build a nation where peace, prosperity and unity flourish for generations to come,” the CAN president declared.
