The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has raised serious security concerns ahead of the Christmas celebrations, appealing to President Bola Tinubu, Northern state governors, and the FCT Minister to take immediate and concrete steps to protect lives and property.
In a statement released on Thursday to mark the festive season, the Chairman of Northern CAN, Reverend Dr. Yakubu Pam, voiced deep anxiety over the worsening security situation across the region, where escalating activities of bandits, terrorists, and other armed groups have created an atmosphere of pervasive fear and instability.
The statement highlighted that the prevailing insecurity has severely eroded public confidence, particularly among Christians, many of whom now feel unsafe traveling or gathering for worship, a core tradition of the Christmas season.
“Christmas represents the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, and it is traditionally marked by family reunions, communal worship, and acts of love and generosity,” Rev. Pam stated. “Sadly, information available to Northern CAN reveals that a large number of Christians are considering staying back in their places of residence out of fear for their safety, as highways, rural communities, and even places of worship have become targets of violent attacks.”
Rev. Pam described the situation as “unacceptable in a constitutional democracy,” emphasizing that the rights to freedom of movement, worship, and association must be guaranteed.
Northern CAN called on federal and state governments to demonstrate renewed commitment to their constitutional duties
“The assurance of safety for all citizens, regardless of faith or ethnicity, is fundamental to national unity and social stability,” the association stressed.
The association expressed confidence that Nigeria would overcome its security challenges through purposeful leadership, collective responsibility, and divine intervention, reaffirming its hope that the “darkness of insecurity will not prevail” and that the nation would emerge stronger and more united.
