This was contained in the Independence Anniversary message by the CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, on Wednesday in Abuja.
Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has extolled the resilience of Nigerians in the face of myriad of challenges threatening their survival.
While congratulating Nigerians on the 65th Independence Anniversary celebration on October 1st, the association emphasized that true progress must touch every home, not just being measured by statistics.
This was contained in the Independence Anniversary message by the CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, on Wednesday in Abuja.
While felicitations with Nigerians for the anniversary celebration, the VAN President urged the citizens to put aside ethnic, religious and political differences to work towards the common good of the country.
He noted that the economic reforms by the current government have brought temporary hardship to millions of Nigerians. Which is made worse by rising costs of living, food insecurity, unemployment and inflation affecting households.
He said, “We must be honest about the unfinished business of nation-building. Economic reforms are necessary, but they have brought temporary hardship for millions of Nigerians.
“The rising cost of living, food insecurity, unemployment and inflation, continue to weigh heavily on households.
“True progress must be measured not only by statistics, but by the food on every table, the security of every community and the opportunities available to every child.
“We pray that God will grant our leaders the wisdom, courage and strength to drive the reforms to a point where Nigerians will rejoice. And may He protect them from sycophants who do not mean well for our nation.”
Archbishop Okoh also explained that insecurity has remained a challenging issue in the country. This is as banditry, kidnapping and communal conflicts continue to threaten lives and property.
He, therefore, required sustained collaboration between security agencies, communities and faith-based organizations to address these challenges.
According to him, many of Nigeria’s brightest minds seek opportunities abroad. Thus, depriving the nation of crucial talent and expertise.
He said, “We also recognize that young people are Nigeria’s greatest asset. Their energy, creativity and determination hold the key to a better tomorrow.
“Yet, the persistent brain drain, where many of our brightest minds leave for opportunities abroad, remains a critical challenge.
“Nigeria must create the enabling environment that encourages its citizens, especially the youth, to stay, thrive and contribute meaningfully to national development.
“Investment in education, innovation and youth empowerment must remain a national priority. By ensuring that no young Nigerian is left behind,”
On the anniversary, Okoh, said “let us renew our commitment to justice, equity and good governance.
“Let us embrace hard work, pay our taxes faithfully, support local production and show love to one another as one people under God.
“The dawn of a new Nigeria is possible. With God’s help and our shared determination, we shall build a nation where peace, prosperity, and unity flourish for generations to come.” he added.
NAN