Cynthia Ezegwu
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has reaffirmed its stance that Christians in the country are facing what it describes as a “Christian genocide,” citing years of persecution, displacement, and violent attacks in several communities.
CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, restated the position on Tuesday at the Fourth Quarterly National Executive Council meeting of the association held in Jos, Plateau State. He said the Christian community had endured “unspeakable tragedy” and worsening insecurity, particularly in Northern Nigeria and the Middle Belt.
“Our presence in Jos today is intentional, purposeful, and deeply symbolic. We are here as ambassadors of solidarity, compassion, and moral support,” Okoh said. “It would be a grave injustice to deny the painful reality of what has transpired: lives brutally cut short, communities uprooted from their ancestral lands, families torn apart, churches razed, and hopes shattered. CAN has spoken clearly and courageously on this matter, and we stand unwaveringly by our position that there is Christian genocide in Nigeria.”
The CAN president said his recent visit to Bokkos, Plateau State, further exposed the scale of displacement endured by Christian communities. He noted that he interacted with displaced persons, listened to their accounts, prayed with them, and provided relief materials.
“We declare with one united voice: You are not forgotten. You are not abandoned. The Body of Christ stands firmly with you,” he added.
The association called for decisive action from the Federal Government and the international community to halt ongoing violence, ensure accountability, and protect indigenous communities in Christian-dominated areas of Northern Nigeria and the Middle Belt. It also urged governments at all levels to expedite the resettlement of internally displaced persons, warning that prolonged stays in camps could escalate into a larger humanitarian crisis.
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Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, who formally declared the meeting open through his deputy, Josephine Piyo, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring peace across the state. He described the gathering as symbolic for Plateau, known for its long-standing identity as the “Home of Peace and Tourism.”
Mutfwang said his administration remained focused on healing divisions, securing rural communities, resettling displaced persons, and restoring dignity to affected families. He commended CAN for its support and partnership, noting that the association plays a crucial role in shaping national discourse and strengthening moral values.
“Nigeria needs the Church now more than ever,” the governor said, while wishing the delegates fruitful and impactful deliberations.