The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has told the Tinubu administration that genuine progress cannot be measured by statistics alone but must be evaluated by whether households can secure adequate food, young people can obtain meaningful employment, communities can be secured and every child has equitable prospects of building a prosperous future.
CAN stated this in its message of felicitation to Nigerians on the occasion of the nation’s 66th Independence anniversary, advocating for a transformative period in which economic prosperity translates into substantive improvements in citizens’ living standards.
In a statement issued by Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN’s President, the organisation acknowledged the transition from a phase of economic restructuring towards an era of prosperity, as promised by President Bola Tinubu during his national address to Nigerians on Thursday.
In marking Independence Day, however, CAN urged the government to make the reduction of food, transportation and energy costs a demonstrable governmental objective.
“Nigerians who have withstood prolonged economic hardship merit the commencement of observable amelioration in their quotidian circumstances,” CAN stated.
“Social protection must also reach those who need it most. Support for vulnerable families, education, healthcare and affordable credit should be strengthened, transparently administered and protected from diversion. Prosperity that does not reach the ordinary Nigerian home remains incomplete.
“Security must receive equal attention. There can be no meaningful prosperity where citizens cannot farm, trade, travel or sleep peacefully because of fear. We urge sustained action to protect lives, secure communities and restore confidence across the country.
“As the 2027 political season approaches, CAN again reminds all political actors that no politician is the Messiah. Christians are free to support or criticise any candidate, but the name of Jesus Christ must not be dragged into partisan rivalry or used as a political weapon.”
CAN said it remains committed to its role as a non-partisan moral voice, commending what is right, speaking when citizens are hurting and holding leaders to the values of justice, accountability and compassion.
Independence Day: Nigerians can’t survive on statistics alone – CAN to Tinubu govt