The national leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on churches across the country to observe the Christmas season with heightened security awareness.
In a Christmas message to Christians and people of goodwill on Wednesday, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said that while the birth of Jesus Christ represents hope, light, and God’s enduring love for humanity, the safety of worshippers must remain a top priority during the festive period.
He urged church leaders, particularly in areas prone to security challenges, to take practical measures to safeguard lives, stressing that vigilance and responsibility are essential aspects of Christian stewardship.
“As churches gather to worship and rejoice during this festive season, Christian leaders and congregations must do so with wisdom, vigilance, and a deep sense of responsibility. The protection of human life is sacred and must remain paramount,” Okoh said.
The CAN president advised that where security presence is inadequate, churches should consider holding services in safer locations or organising smaller gatherings that allow for better protection of members. He explained that the guidance was motivated by love and care, not fear, noting that Christians are called to be wise stewards of the lives entrusted to them by God.
He also appealed to security agencies to increase their presence around places of worship during the Christmas season and urged churches to maintain close collaboration with law enforcement authorities to ensure peaceful celebrations nationwide.
Beyond security concerns, Okoh encouraged Nigerians to reflect on the core message of Christmas—love, peace, patience, sacrifice, and compassion—despite prevailing economic and social challenges.
He reassured Christians that the celebration of Christ’s birth remains a reminder that God has not abandoned Nigeria and that hope endures despite the nation’s difficulties.
The CAN president further called on Nigerians to remember victims of violence, displacement, and hardship, urging renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and national unity.
“United by our shared humanity and common destiny, we must renew our commitment to peace, justice, and national cohesion, mindful that Nigeria is our only home and its future depends on our collective resolve,” he said.
He prayed for joy, peace, and hope to fill homes and churches across the country, expressing optimism that the New Year would usher in renewed faith, healing, and lasting peace for Nigeria.
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