By Sarafina Christopher

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), representing the 19 Northern States and FCT has called for a renewed and strategic approach to securing lives and property in the North.

CAN made the call in a statement by Rev. John Joseph Hayab, Chairman of CAN 19 Northern States and FCT on Thursday.

The statement which doubles as an Easter Greeting, is tagged: “2025 Easter: A call to Renewed Sacrifice, National Healing, and the Role of Women in Rebuilding Northern Nigeria”.

The statement which is coming as Christians across Nigeria and around the world celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, also called for adequate compensation and rehabilitation for victims of insurgency and violence in the area.

Hayab made case for increased commitment to girl-child education as a foundation for societal progress and the implementation of inclusive policies that uphold justice, equity, and human dignity.

According to him, it is also of utmost importance to establish and support community-based peacebuilding and trauma-healing initiatives, especially for victims of violence and displaced persons.

The CAN chairman who expressed heartfelt Easter greetings to the Christian faithful in particular, and Nigerians in general.

“The Easter season, beyond its profound spiritual depth, presents a powerful opportunity for reflection on the redemptive sacrifice of Christ.

“His sacrifice was grounded in love, compassion, and a deep commitment to the common good of humanity.

“Easter reminds us that even in the face of pain and despair, hope can be reborn.

“It is a celebration of triumph through sacrifice and an invitation for all of us to awaken our collective conscience.”

Hayab said that more than ever before, Nigerians must rise above selfish interests, fear, and disunity, especially as the country, and the northern region in particular grapples with insecurity, moral decline, and leadership challenges.

He stated that in 2025, the northern wing of CAN is emphasising the critical role of women in the journey towards rebuilding the society.

Women, he said, have long stood as the unseen architects of homes, the moral compass of families, and the uncelebrated shapers of communities.

“Both historical and biblical accounts show us that when women are empowered, entire societies experience transformation.

“From the bravery of Queen Esther to the wisdom of Deborah and the unwavering devotion of Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, the role of women in defining moments is unmistakable,” Hayab said.

He added that in the present realities of Northern Nigeria, what is need are women who not only nurture life but also shape futures.

He spoke of the need for mothers to raise sons grounded in discipline and daughters prepared for leadership and impact.

“Denying girls access to education does more than limit individual potential.

“It threatens our collective future. A girl who is denied education today may become a mother tomorrow who lacks the capacity to guide her children away from violence, ignorance, and moral collapse.

“It is our shared responsibility to empower women and girls through accessible education, structured mentorship, and real opportunities.

“We must raise daughters who lead with wisdom and integrity. We must invest in women who turn their homes into spaces of peace, their communities into beacons of learning, and their leadership into vehicles of selfless service,” he added.

Hayab urged parents to treat the education and moral upbringing of their children as sacred duties, adding that sending children to school and ensuring they stay until completion is a noble sacrifice that yields lasting rewards.

The CAN chairman advised leaders to be willing to prioritise the well-being of their people above personal interests.

He advised communities to choose unity instead of division, truth in place of convenience, and peace over conflict.

“As we celebrate this Easter, we must also acknowledge the sorrow and grief brought on by the ongoing violence in some parts of Northern Nigeria particularly in Plateau and Benue states.

“This tragic incident is a reminder on the need for urgent action against all forms of criminal activities in northern states and Nigeria at large.

“While communities must play their part, government at both the state and federal levels must not remain indifferent.

“May the risen Christ renew our hope, restore our values, and strengthen our resolve to build a more peaceful Northern Nigeria and a greater nation.

“We wish all Nigerians a joyful and meaningful Easter celebration. May God bless the women of Northern Nigeria and may He continue to bless our country,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim