The President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh,y has welcomed rising international attention on att+cks against Christian communities, suggesting that global pressure might prompt the Federal Government to act. He made the remarks in Jos, Plateau State, during the opening of CAN’s Fourth Quarterly National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting.
Addressing national Christian leaders, Okoh highlighted the growing alarm over the scale and pattern of violence targeting Christians in Northern Nigeria and the Middle Belt. He stressed that Nigeria cannot ignore the mounting international concern. “CAN has consistently affirmed that there is Christian genocide in Nigeria,” he said.
Okoh referenced his recent visit to Bokkos, where he met displaced families and observed the widespread destruction of homes and communities, underscoring why the issue is drawing global attention.
He assured affected communities that they are not forgotten, stating, “The Body of Christ stands firmly with you.”
The CAN President noted that years of killings, kidnappings, and razed villages have gone unpunished, creating a climate of impunity that has now attracted international focus. While acknowledging the pain of global scrutiny, Okoh emphasized that any pressure that encourages decisive government action to protect lives and restore peace is welcome.
He reaffirmed CAN’s commitment to seeking justice and accountability, both nationally and internationally, until vulnerable Christian communities are adequately protected. Okoh also urged for the immediate resettlement of internally displaced persons, warning that prolonged stays in camps threaten long-term stability.
“No individual should ever be persecuted or killed on account of their faith,” CAN declared. The Archbishop called on Christian leaders to remain united, emphasizing that the world is closely observing Nigeria’s response to the crisis and the protection of its citizens.
