Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. Dr. John Joseph Hayab, speaking during a dinner ceremony in Kaduna
By AMOS MATHEW, Kaduna –
Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the rights of Northern Christians, insisting that it will continue to speak truth to power despite challenges.
Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. Dr. John Joseph Hayab, made this known during a dinner ceremony in Kaduna, attended by CAN chairmen, secretaries, and other Christian leaders.
He emphasized that the new leadership would not be distracted by criticisms but would focus on fostering unity, inclusivity, and development in the region.
“We will remain a voice for Northern Christians, defenders of truth, and speakers of truth to power. However, we will do so with love and understanding,” he stated.
Addressing Regional Challenges
Hayab lamented the deep-rooted ethnic and religious divisions in Northern Nigeria, which he described as major obstacles to progress. He urged the Christian community to embrace unity, partnership, and a renewed mindset for sustainable growth.
“It is disheartening when people perceive us as divided and intolerant. We must usher in a new phase—one of love, respect, and collaboration. Our region is blessed, but divisions have cost us dearly. It’s time for a change,” he added.
Speaking after the event, the leader of the Northern CAN Women’s Wing, Ambassador Elizabeth Azizi, expressed confidence in Hayab’s leadership, describing him as a unifying figure.
She criticized the previous CAN leadership under Rev. Yakubu Pam and Secretary Elder Sunday Oibe for overstaying their tenure by nearly three years, urging them to act responsibly and allow peace to prevail.
Similarly, Northern CAN Youth Leader, Evangelist Musa Misal, called on Pam and Oibe to immediately hand over all Northern CAN properties across the 19 states and the FCT to the new leadership, stressing that leadership is temporary and should be handled with integrity.
“The youths stand firmly with the new leadership and will give him their total support. This is the kind of leader we have long desired,” he said.
The event was attended by prominent Christian leaders, including the Secretary General of Northern CAN, Bishop Mohammed Naga (Borno State); the Director of Legal and Public Affairs, Dr. Barr. Grace Kaka (Bauchi State); and the Director of Ecumenism and Interfaith, Rev. Godwin Adole (Sokoto State).
Other key figures present were the Director of Planning, Research, and Strategy, Rev. Emeka Obianyor; the Director of Youth, Women, and Education, Rev. Fr. Prof. Ngbea Gabriel (Benue State); and the Northern CAN Vice Chairman, Rev. Dr. Jonah Samson, who also serves as the Chairman of CAN North Central Zone.
Also in attendance were former ECWA General Secretary Worldwide, Rev. Yunusa Madu, and the President of the Pentecostal Bishops Forum and President of the Seat of God Ministries, Kaduna, Bishop Ademola Idowu Tinuoye, among others.
