By Laide Akinboade
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on Thursday urged for a new phase in which the promise of prosperity translates into tangible improvements in the lives of citizens.
In a statement issued by President CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, to congratulate Nigerians as the nation marked its 66th Independence Anniversary in Abuja.
Okoh, said after enduring hardship for many years, Nigerians deserve to begin seeing meaningful relief in their daily lives.
After so many years of economic reforms, it is time for economic prosperity for the citizens of Nigeria
According to the CAN boss, “We welcome the shift from an era of economic reforms to an era of prosperity. But the true test of progress is not in statistics alone. It is whether families can afford food, young people can find decent work, communities can live in safety and every child has a fair opportunity to build a future.
”We, therefore, urge the government to make lower food, transport and energy costs a measurable priority. Nigerians who have endured years of economic pressure deserve to begin seeing meaningful relief in their daily lives.
”Social protection must also reach those who need it most. Support for vulnerable families, education, healthcare and affordable credit should be strengthened, transparently administered and protected from diversion. Prosperity that does not reach the ordinary Nigerian home remains incomplete”.
Okoh lamented, “Security must receive equal attention. There can be no meaningful prosperity where citizens cannot farm, trade, travel or sleep peacefully because of fear. We urge sustained action to protect lives, secure communities and restore confidence across the country”.
He noted, “As the 2027 political season approaches, CAN again reminds all political actors that no politician is the Messiah. Christians are free to support or criticise any candidate, but the name of Jesus Christ must not be dragged into partisan rivalry or used as a political weapon”.
He stressed that CAN remains committed to its role as a non-partisan moral voice; commending what is right, speaking when citizens are hurting and holding leaders to the values of justice, accountability and compassion.