As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to mark the birth of Jesus Christ, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has urged Christians to celebrate with heads held high but eyes wide open, calling for a blend of festive cheer and “wisdom and vigilance.”
In a Christmas message issued in Abuja on Wednesday, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, appealed to security agencies to tighten surveillance around churches and other worship centres during the season.
He noted that although Christmas symbolises the victory of light over darkness, the nation’s prevailing security and economic realities demand worship that is not only spiritual but also sensible.
According to him, faith must walk hand in hand with caution in troubled times.
The cleric advised church leaders, especially those operating in volatile areas, to place the value of human life above rigid traditions. “In places where adequate security presence is lacking, church leaders should prayerfully consider holding services in safer locations or smaller gatherings,” he said.
Okoh stressed that the guidance was not born out of panic but of responsibility, urging churches to take deliberate steps to safeguard worshippers while keeping the spirit of Christmas alive.
Beyond safety concerns, the CAN president also turned the spotlight on the biting “economic difficulties” confronting many Nigerians.
He reminded Christians that the nativity story remains a powerful assurance that God has not turned His back on the nation, no matter how dark the tunnel may seem.
“Let us remember those grieving, displaced, or facing hardship. “Let us be reminder that Nigeria’s future depends on a collective resolve for peaceful coexistence.
Archbishop Okoh offered prayers for national healing and unity, expressing optimism that the New Year would open the door to a season of “lasting peace” across the country.
“Nigeria is our only home,” he noted, “and its future depends on our collective resolve.”
