BY NONYE EKWENUGO
Kaduna
As Christians celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), representing the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja has called for a renewed and strategic approach to securing lives and property in the North.
In his Easter message on Thursday, the Chairman of the association, Rev John Joseph Hayab called for increased commitment to girl-child education as a foundation for societal progress.
“True leadership, as exemplified by Jesus Christ, is not about power but about offering service. Our leaders, in this season of Easter, must embody compassion, accountability, and empathy in their decisions and actions.
“As we celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, may the significance of Easter inspire us beyond ritual and routine. Let it move us toward concrete action. Let it stir within us a willingness to make sacrifices for the collective good. Let it drive us to build a future where women take their rightful place as leaders, where children are raised in truth and love, and where governance is defined by justice and equity”.
“As we celebrate this Easter, we must also acknowledge the sorrow and grief brought on by the ongoing violence in some parts of Northern Nigeria particularly in Plateau and Benue States. This tragic incident is a reminder on the need for urgent action against all forms of criminal activities in northern states and Nigeria at large.
“Easter reminds us that even in the face of pain and despair, hope can be reborn. It is a celebration of triumph through sacrifice and an invitation for all of us to awaken our collective conscience.
“Now more than ever, we must rise above selfish interests, fear, and disunity, especially as our nation and the northern region in particular grapple with insecurity, moral decline, and leadership challenges”.
CAN also demanded implementation of inclusive policies that uphold justice, equity, human dignity and establishment of community-based peacebuilding and trauma-healing initiatives, especially for victims of violence and displaced persons.
The Christian body however, urged parents to treat education and moral upbringing of their children as sacred duties.
“Sending children to school and ensuring they stay until completion is a noble sacrifice that yields lasting rewards. Leaders must be willing to prioritize the well-being of their people above personal interest. Communities must choose unity instead of division, truth in place of convenience, and peace over conflict”.
