Christian leaders say worsening violence requires urgent action, back international support to tackle terrorism and banditry.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on the Federal Government to urgently declare a state of emergency on insecurity, citing the growing threat posed by terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes across the country.
Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday during the presentation of a communiqué issued after the National Church Denominational Leaders Summit 2026, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said the call was not intended as a criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration but a reminder of the government’s constitutional responsibility to protect lives, property and the nation’s territorial integrity. He noted that insecurity, which initially affected parts of Northern Nigeria, is increasingly spreading to other regions of the country.
Okoh stressed that while self-preservation is a natural instinct, citizens and churches must operate within the law when defending themselves and their properties. He said CAN would continue engaging the government through advocacy and diplomatic channels to ensure decisive action is taken.
The cleric also expressed support for international cooperation in combating insecurity, including security partnerships between Nigeria and the United States. According to him, if foreign assistance is necessary to help defeat terrorists and criminal groups, the government should embrace such support through proper channels. He described the summit as the beginning of broader efforts by church leaders to push for a safer and more secure Nigeria.