Eid-el-Kabir: CAN Urges Leaders To Demonstrate Greater Sacrifice, Ease Hardship
By Stella Enenche, Abuja
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on political leaders, business elites and religious institutions to demonstrate greater sacrifice, compassion and accountability as Nigerians grapple with worsening economic hardship and insecurity.
In a statement issued on Wednesday to mark the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said the season should serve as a period of reflection, national healing and renewed commitment to the welfare of citizens.
CAN congratulated Muslim faithful across Nigeria and beyond on the celebration, describing Eid-el-Kabir as a solemn reminder of faith, obedience, sacrifice and devotion to God.
The association, however, noted that the significance of the festival comes at a time when many Nigerians are facing severe economic and social challenges.
According to the statement, “many Nigerians no longer measure hardship in statistics but in skipped meals, unpaid school fees, shuttered businesses and sleepless nights.”
CAN lamented the rising cost of living, growing insecurity and uncertainty among young people, warning that many farmers were abandoning their farmlands due to fear, while small businesses continue to struggle under economic pressure.
The Christian body stressed that sacrifice should not remain the burden of ordinary citizens alone, insisting that leadership at all levels must reflect honesty, restraint, service and visible commitment to the wellbeing of the people.
“This is a time for leaders across government, politics, business, security institutions and religious organisations to put aside indifference, blame-shifting and narrow interests and focus on the urgent task of restoring public confidence and easing the hardship facing millions of Nigerians,” the statement added.
CAN further urged leaders to rebuild public trust through action rather than rhetoric, saying Nigerians were in need of hope backed by practical measures.
The association also cautioned citizens against allowing economic hardship and insecurity to fuel ethnic, religious or regional divisions.
“Hunger does not ask for tribe or religion. Poverty does not discriminate. Insecurity threatens everyone,” CAN stated.
The body called on religious leaders to continue promoting peace, moderation, reconciliation and hope amid rising tensions in different parts of the country.
It also encouraged privileged Nigerians, corporate organisations and public-spirited individuals to support vulnerable groups, including widows, orphans, displaced persons and struggling families during the festive season.
CAN expressed optimism that Nigeria could overcome its present challenges if citizens and leaders embraced the values of sacrifice, justice, compassion and shared humanity symbolised by Eid-el-Kabir.
The association prayed for peace, healing and renewed hope across the country, while wishing Muslims a peaceful and joyful celebration.
