The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the Northern region and Abuja has explained its commendation of President Bola Tinubu, citing his strides toward fostering an inclusive government. According to the Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. Yakubu Pam, the administration’s efforts have mitigated the contentious narrative surrounding the Muslim-Muslim ticket issue. This inclusiveness, CAN stated, reflects a notable attempt to balance governance in a way that considers Nigeria’s diverse population. However, the association emphasized the need for greater representation of Christians, particularly Northern Christians, in key political positions such as the Vice Presidency, to further deepen equity and diversity in leadership.
Speaking after the National Executive Committee meeting of the association in Kaduna, Rev. Pam stressed that inclusiveness remains the cornerstone of effective governance. While he acknowledged the administration’s progress, he pointed out that appointing Christians to pivotal roles would help reflect Nigeria’s pluralistic society. "For us, inclusiveness means having all groups represented, especially in positions like the Vice Presidency. It is essential that the diversity of our nation is mirrored in its leadership," Pam remarked.
The Northern CAN leader also used the platform to address pressing national challenges, particularly the rising cost of living and economic hardship, which he described as critical issues affecting many Nigerians. He appealed to the government to take urgent steps to alleviate the economic burden on citizens. According to him, hunger and the skyrocketing prices of essential commodities have left many struggling to survive. While he admitted that the Tinubu administration had made some progress in addressing these issues, he urged the government to do more, especially in restoring economic stability and creating opportunities for citizens.
Insecurity also took center stage in his remarks, as Rev. Pam called for the declaration of a state of emergency to combat the menace. He noted that insecurity continues to disrupt the lives of Nigerians, particularly in the North, where citizens live in fear and displacement remains a significant concern. "The desire of the people is to see insecurity addressed so they can return to their normal daily activities without fear," he said. Pam commended the administration for improvements in security compared to previous years but reiterated the need for urgent interventions to address lingering challenges.
Another key issue highlighted was the marginalization of Northern Christians in political appointments and access to opportunities. Rev. Pam expressed disappointment that no Northern Christian was included in the leadership of the North-West Development Commission, an omission he described as indicative of a larger issue of exclusion. Furthermore, he lamented the difficulties Christians face in acquiring land for church buildings in certain states, a challenge that underscores the need for equitable treatment of all religious groups in Nigeria.
In response to these concerns, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, represented by his Chief of Staff, Christopher Tarka, assured CAN of President Tinubu’s commitment to promoting good governance, equity, and inclusivity. Akume acknowledged the grievances raised by Northern CAN, including the lack of representation of Northern Christians in key appointments and the challenges related to acquiring land for church buildings. He emphasized that the administration was dedicated to addressing these issues and ensuring that governance reflects fairness across all regions of the country.
While Northern CAN commended the President’s inclusive approach, the association underscored the need for further efforts to ensure that all groups feel adequately represented in governance. It expressed hope that these interventions would promote unity, restore peace, and create opportunities for all Nigerians, irrespective of their religious or regional affiliations.
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