At the Easter service in Abuja on Sunday, CAN chairman urges Christians to love Nigeria selflessly, calling on worshippers to demonstrate national unity, compassion, and service beyond personal interests.
Dr. Daniel Okoh, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, delivered the message during a sermon that highlighted the spiritual and civic responsibilities of believers.
The message that CAN chairman urges Christians came at a time when Nigeria continues to grapple with socio‑economic challenges, including insecurity, rising living costs, and calls for peaceful co‑existence among diverse communities.
CAN, as the umbrella body for Christian denominations in Nigeria, frequently uses major religious gatherings to issue moral guidance and social exhortations.
During the Easter celebration, attendees from various states joined the service, underscoring the multi‑ethnic and multi‑denominational nature of the association.
The event also commemorated the biblical account of Jesus Christ’s resurrection, a central tenet of the Christian faith.
In his Easter message, the CAN chairman urges Christians to reflect the sacrificial love exemplified by Christ in their interactions with fellow Nigerians.
Dr. Okoh said:
“As we celebrate the resurrection of Christ, we are called not only to rejoice individually, but to embody love, peace, and unity in our nation.”
He emphasised that Christians should extend care to the less privileged, support peacebuilding efforts, and participate actively in national development.
“Nigeria needs citizens who love their country selflessly, showing compassion and commitment to the common good,” Okoh added.
The CAN chairman urges Christians to pray for leaders and security agencies tasked with maintaining peace and stability across the country.
He urged congregants to intercede for those affected by violence and hardship, stressing that collective prayers contribute to spiritual resilience.
Representatives of denominations present at the Easter service echoed the call for unity. Rev. (Dr.) Yomi Kasali of the Latter Rain Assembly urged worshippers to demonstrate their faith through service, while Archbishop Henry Ndukuba of the Anglican Communion called for a renewed commitment to ethical leadership and societal transformation.
The service also included musical renditions by choirs and praise ministries, which reinforced themes of hope, resurrection, and national cohesion that are central to the Easter celebration.
The call in which CAN chairman urges Christians to love Nigeria selflessly is part of a broader pattern where religious leaders address social concerns alongside spiritual teachings.
Religious bodies in Nigeria often play influential roles in shaping moral discourse, especially during major Holy Days when large congregations gather.
The emphasis on selfless national love and unity aligns with ongoing public discussions about social cohesion, economic hardship, and civic responsibility.
Analysts note that such moral guidance from faith leaders can contribute to public morale and encourage collective actions that transcend denominational boundaries.
