Rev. Dr. Joseph John Hayab, Chairman of Northern Christians Association
Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the Northern Region has reaffirmed its commitment to sustained and constructive engagement with government at all levels, traditional institutions and other faith communities as part of broader efforts to promote peaceful coexistence, protect citizens’ rights and contribute to national development.
The association said such engagement has become more imperative in view of persistent security challenges, rising social tensions and pockets of mistrust affecting many communities, particularly in Northern Nigeria.
In a press statement personally signed on Thursday by the Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, the association stressed that addressing these challenges requires deliberate collaboration among critical stakeholders, including government authorities, traditional rulers, community leaders and faith-based organisations.
According to the statement, meaningful partnership with state actors and traditional institutions would help deepen dialogue, rebuild trust among diverse groups and create sustainable frameworks for peace, mutual understanding and social stability.
Rev. Hayab noted that the Church, beyond its spiritual mandate, remains committed to playing a responsible and constructive role in nation-building through interfaith cooperation, community-based outreach and civic engagement initiatives aimed at fostering unity and strengthening social cohesion.
He added that CAN’s engagement strategy would prioritise the promotion of justice and equity, while advocating lawful, inclusive and dialogue-driven approaches to resolving grievances that often fuel tension and conflict at the grassroots.
The Northern CAN chairman further emphasised that the protection of the rights of Christians would continue to be pursued within the broader framework of respect for the rule of law and the rights of all Nigerians, stressing that peaceful coexistence remains central to national unity and progress.
Hayab expressed optimism that with sustained dialogue, responsible leadership and collective commitment from all stakeholders, Nigeria could record measurable progress in strengthening peace, security and national integration in 2026.
