The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on Sunday held a nationwide Black Sunday observance to honour Nigerians who have lost their lives or suffered as a result of the country’s worsening security crisis.
In a message addressed to Christians across the country, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, described the insecurity situation as a national tragedy that has caused immense pain through terrorism, banditry, kidnappings and other violent attacks.
According to the association, the day was dedicated to remembering men, women, children, clergy, farmers, students and entire communities affected by the persistent violence across the nation.
The association said, “Today, we are not only mourning; we are speaking with one voice. Our nation is bleeding, and the church cannot remain silent while innocent lives are lost and families live in fear.”
CAN noted that the Black Sunday observance coincided with Democracy Day celebrations, stressing that safety and security remain essential pillars of democratic governance.
The association stated that democracy thrives on respect for human life, justice, the rule of law and the protection of citizens.
“Therefore, there can be no more fitting way to honour the sacrifices that birthed our democracy than by recommitting ourselves to building a nation where every Nigerian can live, work, worship, and travel in safety,” the association stated.
Expressing support for families who have lost loved ones, displaced persons, victims of attacks and others affected by insecurity, CAN offered prayers for comfort, healing and justice.
Referencing Matthew 5:4, the association said, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted,” while emphasizing that Christians nationwide were united in prayer for victims of violence.
The Christian body also called on authorities at all levels to intensify efforts toward tackling the country’s security challenges.
“We call on the government on all levels to take urgent, decisive, and sustained measures to secure lives and property across our nation.
“The protection of citizens is a sacred responsibility entrusted to those in authority and must be treated with the utmost seriousness,” it said.
CAN further advised churches, Christian schools, hospitals, mission establishments and other faith-based institutions to strengthen security arrangements within their environments.
“Security awareness, preparedness for emergency situations, collaboration with local security networks, and vigilance at all times have become necessary responsibilities in the face of prevailing threats,” it stated.
The association encouraged Nigerians to remain steadfast and united despite the challenges facing the nation.
“Let this day deepen our compassion, strengthen our unity, and renew our commitment to peace, justice, and national healing.
Let us continue to pray fervently for our nation, support affected families and communities, and refuse to surrender to fear,” CAN added.
In Borno State, Christians joined the nationwide observance with a procession in Maiduguri, where they called for an end to rising insecurity and abductions in the state and across Nigeria.
Addressing participants during the event, Secretary of the Borno State chapter of CAN, Joshua Akeredolu, said the programme was specifically aimed at interceding for victims of kidnapping and seeking divine intervention against insecurity.
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“Today is tagged a Black Sunday for all believers in the nation to pray specifically for those who are in the den of kidnappers and to pray against the insecurity that we have found ourselves as a nation.
“Today is also to pray for our leaders that God should give them direction and focus to end the insecurity.”
Akeredolu lamented the abduction and killing of Christian faithful, including clergy members, in Borno State.
“Currently, within Borno State, we have Reverend Musa, who has been kidnapped since 2023 in Gamboru Ngala alongside his wife. We also have those who lost their lives.
These people are not even given any privilege; they were killed immediately after their abduction. For instance, in Askira Uba, a Pastor of EYN Church was killed last year.
“Not only pastors, but our brethren were also kidnapped, most especially because of our faith.”
Also speaking, Apostle Joseph Okoroafor, a cleric and Deputy Territorial Chairman of the Area Superintendent of The Apostolic Church Nigeria, Umuahia Area, emphasized the importance of continuous prayers for the country.
Delivering a message at the conclusion of the three-day national mourning and prayer programme declared by CAN, Okoroafor said Christians have a responsibility to seek the peace and progress of their nation through prayer.
The cleric, who also serves as Area Superintendent of TACN Umuahia Area, described recent developments in the country as troubling and urged believers to pray for Nigeria, its leaders and security agencies.
“We need to pray for our leaders and the led. We need to pray for Nigeria against bandits and insurgents. We need to pray for Nigeria so that we will have peace,” Okoroafor stated.