As Christians across the globe observe Palm Sunday and the beginning of Holy Week, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has delivered a heartfelt call for peace, national unity, and responsible leadership in the face of growing insecurity.
In a message released on Sunday and signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN extended warm greetings to Christians and all people of goodwill in the country, urging them to reflect on the teachings of Jesus Christ and the deeper meaning of this sacred season.
“Palm Sunday commemorates the triumphal entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem, where He was welcomed with palm branches and shouts of ‘Hosanna!’—a powerful symbol of peace, humility, and hope,” the statement read.
The association emphasized that the life and mission of Jesus remain as relevant today as they were two millennia ago, particularly as Nigeria contends with serious social and security challenges. “This moment, recorded in the Gospels (Matthew 21:1–11, Mark 11:1–11, Luke 19:28–44, and John 12:12–19), offers enduring lessons for our nation as we navigate these uncertain and challenging times,” CAN said.
In a sobering part of the statement, CAN strongly condemned the recent violence in Plateau State, where attacks on April 4, 2025, left scores dead in Bokkos and Mangu Local Government Areas.
“With deep sorrow, CAN strongly condemns the recent wave of brutal killings in Plateau State, particularly the attacks of 4 April 2025, which claimed the lives of dozens of innocent citizens in Bokkos and Mangu Local Government Areas. These senseless acts of violence represent not only a gross violation of human dignity and the sanctity of life but also a serious threat to our national unity and peace,” the Christian body stated.
CAN urged swift and firm action from law enforcement agencies, pressing for justice and greater efforts to prevent further bloodshed. “We call on the security agencies to act swiftly and decisively in bringing the perpetrators to justice. We also urge the government—at all levels—to intensify its efforts to secure all communities and prevent further bloodshed. The continued loss of lives in such tragic circumstances is simply unacceptable,” it declared.
In its message of solidarity, CAN stood with the victims and their families. “We stand in solidarity with the bereaved families and the people of Plateau State. May God grant comfort to the grieving, healing to the wounded, and peace to every troubled heart,” the statement continued.
Addressing Nigeria’s political leadership, CAN drew on the symbolic meaning of Christ’s entry into Jerusalem. “In this critical moment, we call on our leaders to rise to the occasion with humility and a clear sense of purpose. Jesus’ choice to enter Jerusalem on a donkey—symbolising peace and servanthood—remains a timeless example. Our leaders must embrace the principles of servant leadership, placing the welfare of the people above personal or political interests,” the statement said.
CAN also called on everyday Nigerians to set aside divisions and work towards healing and reconciliation. “In the same spirit, we appeal to all Nigerians—regardless of ethnicity, religion, or political affiliation—to rise above division and embrace our shared identity as one people under God,” it urged.
Reflecting on the deeper message of the holy day, the statement concluded with a note of hope: “Palm Sunday reminds us that even in times of trial, there is hope. The journey to national renewal begins with each of us… As we lift our palm branches today, let them serve not only as symbols of worship but as signs of our collective resolve to work for a peaceful and united Nigeria.”
“May God grant us wisdom, courage, and grace in these trying times. We pray for our leaders, that they may be guided by divine insight; for our people, that they may draw strength from unity; and for our nation, that peace may reign in every corner. God bless you all, and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
