Eid‑el‑Kabir: CAN Urges Leaders Not to Leave the Burden of Sacrifice on Ordinary Nigerians Alone

By Luminous Jannamike, ABUJA

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) addressed political, business and religious leaders on Wednesday, urging that the concept of sacrifice should not be limited to ordinary citizens. The organization warned that escalating hardship, insecurity and public frustration are driving many Nigerians to the brink.

CAN framed Eid‑el‑Kabir as more than a religious observance, describing it as a moment for national reflection and moral responsibility amid widespread struggles with rising living costs, fear and uncertainty about the future.

The message, signed by Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of CAN, read:

“The deeper meaning of Eid‑el‑Kabir becomes even more significant at a moment like this. Sacrifice must not remain a burden carried only by ordinary citizens. Leadership must also reflect sacrifice through honesty, restraint, compassion, accountability and a visible commitment to the wellbeing of the people.”

According to CAN, the reality faced by many Nigerians can no longer be measured solely by economic statistics or official statements; it is evident in the daily hardships experienced in homes and communities across the country.

Families are struggling to keep food on the table as living costs rise. Farmers fear returning to their fields due to insecurity, while small businesses continue to suffer under economic strain. Many young Nigerians are also looking to the future with growing uncertainty.

Describing the situation as a test of leadership, CAN called on those in authority to move beyond indifference, blame‑shifting and narrow interests, and instead focus on restoring public confidence and easing the hardship confronting millions.

“This is a time for leaders across government, politics, business, security institutions and religious organisations to rise above indifference, blame‑shifting and narrow interests,” the Christian body said.

CAN also warned that public trust cannot be rebuilt through speeches alone. It added, “Nigerians need hope they can genuinely see and feel, not promises they no longer trust. Citizens want leadership that listens, leadership that acts and leadership that is willing to share in the sacrifices ordinary people make every day.”

The association cautioned Nigerians against allowing economic hardship and frustration to inflame ethnic, religious or regional tensions. “Hunger does not ask for tribe or religion. Poverty does not discriminate. Insecurity threatens everyone,” CAN said, warning that division would only deepen the country’s wounds at a difficult time.

Archbishop Okoh also called on religious leaders across faiths to continue promoting peace, moderation and reconciliation amid growing anger and frustration in many communities.

He urged privileged Nigerians, corporate organisations and public‑spirited individuals to remember poor and vulnerable citizens during the Eid‑el‑Kabir season, including widows, orphans, displaced persons and struggling families. “The spirit of sacrifice becomes truly meaningful when it helps restore dignity, hope and relief to others,” the association added.

CAN expressed hope that Nigeria could still rise above fear, division and hardship if both leaders and citizens embraced the values of sacrifice, justice, compassion and shared humanity represented by the season.

It also prayed for peace, healing and renewal across the country, wisdom for leaders, protection for vulnerable communities, and renewed hope for young Nigerians seeking a better future.

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