CAN urges FG to turn promises into reality, demands resettlement plan in 2026

The Christian Association of Nigeria (NAN) has urged the Federal Government to move from promises to “lived realities” in 2026, demanding a time-bound resettlement plan for displaced communities.

In a New Year message on Thursday by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN acknowledged Nigerians’ “quiet endurance” amid economic hardship and rising living costs.

Okoh said national reforms remain incomplete until they deliver affordable food, accessible healthcare and attainable education for ordinary citizens across the country.

“The quiet endurance of our people is not a sign that all is well; it reminds us how much healing, relief and justice Nigeria still needs,” he said.

On insecurity, Okoh urged the government to fulfil its pledge to reduce terrorism, banditry and kidnapping to the lowest possible levels in 2026.

CAN demanded a clear roadmap for citizens’ return to ancestral lands, describing it as “unjust and unacceptable” for Nigerians to remain indefinitely uprooted.

“A nation cannot claim healing while entire communities remain unsettled. Beyond temporary relief, the nation must pursue restoration,” Okoh insisted.

Economically, the association cautioned against fiscal and tax reforms that could worsen conditions for low-income earners and small businesses.

Okoh called for policies guided by “wisdom, fairness and restraint” to protect vulnerable citizens and promote inclusive economic recovery.

He also said Nigeria’s challenges are moral as well as structural, citing corruption and injustice as forces eroding public trust.

The cleric urged leadership anchored in integrity and a genuine commitment to service and accountability.

Reaffirming CAN’s position, Okoh said the Church would continue to stand with the people and speak truth to power.

He expressed a “sober hope” that 2026 would bring stability and shared progress to the Federal Republic.

(NAN)