Rev. John Joseph Hayap
By AMOS MATHEW, Kaduna –
As Christians all over the world celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), representing the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Rev. John Joseph Hayap
has decried the persistent violence in parts of the North, particularly in Plateau and Benue States, describing the situation as a stain on the nation’s conscience and a threat to future stability.
In his Easter message signed by him, he called for renewed national sacrifice, with a strong emphasis on tackling insecurity, empowering women, and prioritising girl-child education as critical tools for rebuilding Northern Nigeria.
“The Easter season should awaken our collective conscience,” the statement read. “It is a time to rise above selfish interests, disunity and fear, especially as Northern Nigeria grapples with insecurity, moral decline, and leadership failure.”
CAN expressed deep concern over the impact of ongoing attacks and displacement on families and communities, urging government at all levels to act with “urgency, compassion, and conscience.”
Rev. Hayab went further to call for a new strategic approach, compensation for victims of violence, and the implementation of community-based peacebuilding and trauma-healing initiatives.
Beyond the security concerns, CAN spotlighted the pivotal role of women in societal development, urging both government and communities to invest in women and girls through education and mentorship.
“When we deny girls access to education, we threaten our collective future,” the group stated, adding that “a girl denied education today may become a mother tomorrow who lacks the tools to steer her family away from ignorance and extremism.”
CAN referenced biblical figures like Queen Esther, Deborah, and Mary the mother of Jesus, as timeless examples of female leadership and courage, stressing that Northern Nigeria must begin to raise a generation of daughters “prepared for leadership and impact.”
The statement further urged parents to treat the education and moral upbringing of their children as sacred duties and implored leaders to emulate Christ-like leadership rooted in service, accountability, and empathy.
“As we celebrate Easter, let it inspire concrete action. Let it drive us to build a future where governance is anchored on justice and equity, where women are empowered to lead, and where children are nurtured in truth and love,” CAN concluded.
