Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN president, Archbishop Daniel Okoh has felicitated with Nigerians on this year’s Christmas but expressed deep regrets that the celebration comes amid nationwide fear, uncertainty, untold suffering, and hardship.
This was stated in a Christmas message by the President of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, on Saturday.
He likened Nigerians’ suffering to the Israelites due to their leaders forsaking God in pursuit of their bellies.
But Archbishop Okoh was optimistic that Nigeria would bounce back economically and in terms of security.
“This year, we are celebrating Christmas in Nigeria amidst uncertainty, fear, untold suffering, hardship and pain in the face of a harsh economy. Also in record high inflation figures, worsening poverty situation and a weakened security system due to bad governance,” he said.
He said political stakeholders in the country, especially presidential candidates, should use this season to seek God’s directive for Nigeria.
In a Christmas message on Saturday, Okoh said the mystery of the birth of Jesus Christ as the Messiah, comes in handy now that the nation is on the verge of leadership transition.
“God will always save us through our Lord Jesus Christ,” he said.
“The message of Christmas is of peace and oneness. It is to express love to our neighbours regardless of their religion, ethnicity or political leanings.
“Our political leaders, especially those jostling to lead the country, should use the season to reflect on the good ways of Jesus Christ to give them directives when they assume office.”
The CAN president advised Nigerians not to allow the fear of insecurity in the country to stop them from voting in the 2023 elections.