Nigerians Measure Hardship by Skipped Meals, Not Statistics, Says Eid‑El‑Kabir (CAN)

The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has noted that many Nigerians now measure hardship not by statistics but by everyday realities such as missed meals, unpaid school fees, closed businesses, and sleepless nights.

In a message released for the Eid‑El‑Kabir celebration, signed by CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the organization highlighted the occasion as a profound reminder of faith, obedience, sacrifice, and devotion to God.

The statement added that the period of celebration also reflects the nation’s condition during a challenging and pivotal time in its history.

“Currently, many Nigerians do not assess hardship through statistics but through the reality of missed meals, unpaid school fees, shuttered businesses, and sleepless nights. Families are grappling with the escalating cost of living,” the statement read.

“Farmers are leaving their lands out of fear, while small enterprises are failing under economic strain. Young people are increasingly anxious about their futures, and insecurity continues to loom over many communities,” it added.

“In such times, the profound significance of Eid‑el‑Kabir becomes even more crucial. Sacrifice should not solely be a burden borne by ordinary citizens; leadership must also embody sacrifice through integrity, moderation, service, compassion, and a visible commitment to the welfare of the populace,” the statement continued.

“This is a critical moment for leaders in government, politics, business, security agencies, and religious organizations to set aside apathy, blame‑shifting, and self‑serving interests, and concentrate on the urgent need to restore public trust and alleviate the hardships faced by millions of Nigerians,” it said.

“Nigerians require tangible hope, not mere promises that have lost their credibility. Therefore, this season should act as a moral summons to conscience for all those in positions of authority. Public trust cannot be reestablished through rhetoric alone; citizens seek leadership that listens, takes action, and is prepared to share in the sacrifices that ordinary individuals endure daily,” the statement concluded.