Eid-el-Maulud: Nigerians are tired of promises, CAN urges good governance

As Muslims celebrate Eid-el-Maulud, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has issued a message urging all Nigerians to embed mercy, compassion, justice, and peaceful coexistence into their daily lives. CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh extended congratulations to Muslims across the country, offering prayers for peace and blessings upon their families and communities.

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For us as Nigerians, these values are especially important today because they challenge us to care for one another, protect human dignity and pursue peace even when our differences are exploited for political or personal gain.

Archbishop Okoh highlighted that the celebration of the Prophet of Islam's birth offers a valuable opportunity for both Muslims and Nigerians in general to reflect on the Prophet’s life and associated values. These include mercy, justice, compassion for the vulnerable, honesty, and peaceful coexistence. He emphasized the particular importance of these values in Nigeria's current context, stating they challenge citizens to care for one another, protect human dignity, and pursue peace even amidst attempts to exploit differences for political or personal gain.

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People are tired of promises; they want to see their lives improve.

Okoh acknowledged the difficult times many Nigerians face due to rising living costs and persistent insecurity. "People are tired of promises; they want to see their lives improve," he remarked. Consequently, he urged the Federal Government and leaders at all levels to transition from mere promises to tangible actions, stressing the nation's need for enhanced security, economic relief, and leadership that genuinely prioritizes citizen welfare. "Leadership is not measured by what we promise, but by what Nigerians can see and feel," the CAN president asserted.

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Leadership is not measured by what we promise, but by what Nigerians can see and feel.

Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Okoh cautioned politicians against exploiting religious or ethnic divisions for political advantage, emphasizing that national unity must endure beyond electoral cycles. He called on both Christians and Muslims to resist such divisive attempts, highlighting their shared responsibility to protect communities, support vulnerable Nigerians, and collaborate for peace. While expressing hope for Nigeria's future, Okoh stressed that this hope must be underpinned by "responsible leadership, good citizenship and justice."

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May this Eid-el-Maulud renew our commitment to mercy, peace and compassion, and inspire us to build a Nigeria where every citizen can live with dignity and hope.