The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), representing the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has called for renewed national sacrifice, healing, and a stronger commitment to empowering women as a crucial step in rebuilding Northern Nigeria.
In its Easter message released to journalists on Friday, the association urged Nigerians to reflect on the meaning of Christ’s sacrificial love and its relevance to the nation’s present realities.
“Easter is not just a celebration of triumph over death,” the statement read. “It is a call to awaken our collective conscience and rise above fear, disunity, and selfish interests.”
Signed by Rev. John Joseph Hayab, Chairman of CAN in the 19 Northern states and FCT, the message stressed the importance of unity and compassion amid growing insecurity, moral decline, and leadership challenges—particularly in the North.
A key focus of the message, as observed by Daily Post, was the pivotal role of women in driving societal transformation. CAN described women as the “unseen architects” of families and communities, whose empowerment is essential to national development.
Drawing from biblical figures such as Queen Esther, Deborah, and Mary, the mother of Jesus, the association stressed that empowering women is a proven path to societal progress. “In Northern Nigeria today, we need women who nurture not just life, but also future generations,” the statement read. “We need mothers who raise sons of discipline and daughters equipped for leadership.”
CAN warned that denying girls access to education threatens the future of entire communities and urged for greater investment in girl-child education, structured mentorship, and leadership opportunities for women. “Empowered women turn homes into havens, communities into learning centers, and leadership into selfless service,” the statement noted.
The Christian body also condemned the recent spate of violence in parts of Northern Nigeria, particularly in Plateau and Benue States, expressing grief over the continued loss of lives and displacement of citizens. It called on the government to act swiftly and compassionately.
CAN outlined five key demands to the government, which include; a renewed, strategic approach to securing lives and property in the North, adequate compensation and rehabilitation for victims of violence, increased investment in girl-child education, implementation of inclusive policies that uphold justice, equity, and human dignity, and support for community-based peacebuilding and trauma-healing initiatives.
In conclusion, the association called for leadership modeled after the example of Jesus Christ—driven not by power, but by compassion, empathy, and service. It also reiterated its call for the active inclusion of women in leadership roles across the country.
“As we celebrate Easter, may the message of resurrection inspire us to take bold steps toward peace, unity, and lasting change,” CAN stated.