NIGERIA AT 65: NIGERIANS HUNGRY FOR FOOD, NOT JUST STATISTICS

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By Sunmisola Shodayo

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has cautioned that millions of citizens continue to contend with hunger, insecurity, and unemployment despite ongoing reforms. The organization emphasized that genuine advancement must extend beyond economic indicators to provide tangible relief for households nationwide.

In a communiqué endorsed by Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of CAN, in commemoration of Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary, the leading Christian organization congratulated the nation on this significant achievement while urging leaders to prioritize policies that ensure food security, safeguard lives, and create opportunities for the youth.

“True progress must be measured not only by statistics but by the food on every table, the security of every community, and the opportunities available to every child,” Archbishop Okoh stated.

CAN recognized that Nigeria has experienced significant advancements in education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, and telecommunications since gaining independence.

It noted that from a limited number of schools and institutions in 1960, the nation now boasts thousands, producing generations of young men and women who are shaping the country’s future.

However, the association emphasized that the ‘unfinished’ task of nation-building is being hindered by escalating living costs, food insecurity, unemployment, and inflation.

“We pray that God will grant our leaders the wisdom, courage, and strength to drive the reforms to a point where Nigerians will rejoice, and may He protect them from sycophants who do not mean well for our nation,” Archbishop Okoh added.

Regarding security, CAN expressed concern that terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and communal conflicts have inflicted severe suffering on citizens and displaced families throughout the nation.

“While progress has been made in restoring safety, additional efforts are required to ensure the protection of lives and property,” CAN stated, advocating for sustained collaboration among security agencies, communities, and faith-based organizations to strengthen peace.

On the subject of young people, CAN characterized them as Nigeria’s most valuable asset but warned against the continual brain drain that depletes the nation of its brightest talents.

“Nigeria must cultivate an environment that encourages its citizens, particularly the youth, to remain, flourish, and make meaningful contributions to national development,” the association asserted, calling for ongoing investment in education, innovation, and youth empowerment.

The organization further urged leaders and citizens to transcend ethnic, religious, and political divisions, asserting that national challenges can be surmounted through collective sacrifice, patriotism, and faith in God.

“On this anniversary, let us renew our commitment to justice, equity, and good governance. Let us embrace hard work, pay our taxes faithfully, support local production, and show love to one another as one people under God,” Archbishop Okoh remarked.

CAN expressed confidence that with divine assistance and the resolve of citizens, the country can attain unity and prosperity.