The President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh, has commended the President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) Most Rev. Lucius Ugorji for his unwavering commitment in addressing issues that have entroned bad governance, insecurity, injustice, and economic hardships in the country.
He stated that Ugorji’s consistency in providing insight and guidance on issues that border on bad governance, insecurity (including food insecurity), injustice and extreme economic conditions is an inspiration to all.
Okoh, who spoke as special guest at the First Plennary of the 2024 CBCN Co ference holding in Abuja, Sunday, made reference to the unique theme of the plenary and expressed support for the efforts of the Catholic Church in fostering inclusivity and dialogue.
According to him, “such conversations may bring challenges, but they are essential for unity and impactful evangelism.
He affirmed his prayers for Holy Spirit’s guidance during the plenary, and urged them to remain focused.
The CAN President also acknowledged the daunting challenges faced by Christians in Nigeria, ranging from constant attacks on clergy to the struggle for the right to worship places.
He said: “As members of the Nigerian Christian community, we acknowledge the multifaceted challenges faced by our Churches on a daily basis: From a deliberate attempt to edge out Christianity in certain parts of the country through denial of Right of Occupancy for churches that want to erect their worship places, to targeted serial attacks, arson and kidnapping of clergymen for ransom that has now become a daily occurrence.
“The high level of insecurity, runaway inflation and hunger are areas of serious concern as well.
“I am confident that these issues will be discussed with sincerity and humility.”
