The Christian Association of Nigeria has called on political, religious, and business leaders to match the daily sacrifices of ordinary citizens with honesty, restraint, and a visible commitment to national healing.

The CAN president, Daniel Okoh, made the appeal in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja while felicitating with the Muslim faithful on the occasion of the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.

Mr Okoh noted that this year’s celebration comes at a difficult and defining moment in Nigeria’s history.

According to him, hardship is no longer measured in statistics but in skipped meals, unpaid school fees, and shuttered businesses.

”Sacrifice must not remain a burden carried only by ordinary citizens. Leadership must also reflect sacrifice through honesty, restraint, service, compassion, and visible commitment to the well-being of the people,” Mr Okoh said.

He urged leaders across government, politics, business, security institutions, and religious organisations to set aside their indifference and blame-shifting. Instead, he challenged them to focus on restoring public confidence and easing the economic pressures facing millions of Nigerians.

The CAN president noted that Nigerians currently need “hope they can see, not promises they no longer believe”. He added that public trust cannot be rebuilt through speeches alone.

The cleric cautioned citizens against allowing hunger and frustration to deepen religious, ethnic, or regional divisions.

“Poverty and insecurity do not discriminate. Hunger does not ask for tribe or religion. In times like these, division only deepens the nation’s wounds,” Mr Okoh said.

Mr Okoh further called on religious leaders of all faiths to promote peace, truth, moderation, and reconciliation to calm rising tensions in various communities.

He also appealed to privileged individuals, corporate organisations, and public-spirited citizens to extend hands of fellowship to the poor, widows, orphans, and displaced persons during the festive season.

The CAN president also prayed for wisdom for leaders and protection for vulnerable communities.

He expressed optimism that Nigeria would still rise above its current challenges if it rediscovers the values of justice, compassion, and shared humanity.

(NAN)