Church must share blame for Nigeria’s problems - CAN

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has asserted that both the Church and citizens bear responsibility for Nigeria's ongoing crises, including insecurity, corruption, and economic difficulties. Addressing this during a special thanksgiving service in Abuja, CAN Vice-President Rev. Stephen Panya-Baba emphasized the need for collective responsibility in addressing the country's problems.

He urged Nigerians to reflect on their conduct and contribute to finding solutions, stating that the Church stands guilty before God and that collective effort is essential for the nation's restoration.

Panya-Baba warned against solely blaming political leaders, urging citizens to work together to rehabilitate and restore Nigeria. He emphasized that accepting collective responsibility should not deter the CAN from holding the government accountable for its actions and decisions. The CAN has a duty to address important national issues, both privately and publicly, depending on the circumstances.

Drawing from Proverbs 14:34, Panya-Baba stressed that national renewal requires righteousness, repentance, and turning away from wrongdoing. He called for Nigerians to mobilize for prayer, seek God's intervention, and promote justice, fairness, and equity across religious, ethnic, and regional divides. According to Panya-Baba, Nigerians must humble themselves, pray, seek God's face, and turn away from wickedness to experience healing and restoration.

Despite facing various challenges, including leadership disputes, internal disagreements, religious persecution, insecurity, interreligious tensions, financial difficulties, and public criticism, Panya-Baba expressed confidence in the association's future. He urged members to remain united and committed to the CAN's mission and expressed hope for Nigeria's greater progress, with future generations inheriting a godly legacy.