Writing By Daniel Karlmax , Editing By Godwin Duru
The Northern Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Nineteen Northern States has emphasized that the Church has a sacred responsibility to preach the Gospel and contribute to national healing through its transformative messages for growth and development.
The CAN Chairman, Nineteen Northern States including Abuja, Reverend John Joseph Hayab, stated this in a speech during the tenth edition of the Authentic News Daily Lecture and Award in Kaduna, themed “Religion as a Tool for Peace and National Unity.”
Describing the program as timely, he explained that the role of religion must be clearly understood, upheld, and wisely applied, considering its significance in the lives of citizens, especially at this time when the nation continues to face various challenges threatening its cohesion.
Reverend Hayab, who is also the Country Director of the Global Peace Foundation, Nigeria, posited that true religion builds character and fosters unity, rather than incite hatred or sow seeds of discord.
The clergyman said it was pertinent for Nigerians to exemplify the lifestyle of Jesus Christ, whose life and ministry were defined by peace building, empathy, and reconciliation.
He pointed out that religion, when practiced in its purest and most sincere form, promotes love, compassion, forgiveness and justice.
“Jesus broke social barriers, spoke truth to power, and reached out to the marginalized. His death on the cross was the ultimate sacrifice made for the unity and redemption of mankind. That is the model the Christian faith offers—one that calls believers to be peacemakers, bridge-builders, and custodians of justice.
“The Bible instructs us in Romans 12:18, ‘If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.’ This is the Christian mandate, and it is the message our country needs today,” said Reverend Hayab.
Reverend Dr. John Joseph Hayab urged faith-based communities to discourage divisive rhetoric and embrace reconciliation and mutual respect, de-emphasizing ethnic and denominational boundaries while focusing on common humanity.
He said that when religious leaders teach their congregations to see others first as fellow Nigerians before tribe or creed, then the foundation for true peace is laid.
One critical area where religion must exert its positive influence, according to him, is in the upbringing of children and the moral direction of the youth.
The peace ambassador emphasized that the church, working alongside families and civil institutions, must take seriously the task of nurturing values in the next generation.
He noted that a peaceful nation is one where citizens are raised with respect for life, law, and human dignity, which cannot be achieved if the roles of women and young people in nation-building are neglected.
“Throughout Scripture, women have played transformative roles. From Deborah to Mary, we see how women helped shape the destiny of nations through wisdom, courage, and faith.
“Today, in Northern Nigeria and beyond, we must empower our women to continue that legacy—not only as mothers but as moral anchors, educators, and peace agents within their communities. Denying girls access to education not only robs them of their potential but weakens the moral and intellectual fabric of the society they will help raise.
“Our national unity also demands that we pay deliberate attention to justice and equity. There can be no lasting peace where injustice thrives. The Christian faith is unambiguous on this: ‘Let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream’ (Amos 5:24).
“Therefore, our call for peace must be matched with actions that promote fairness, protect the vulnerable, and uphold the rule of law,” explained Rev. Hayab.
The Northern CAN Chairman further pointed out that government at all levels has a vital role to play, and that their policies must reflect the values they preach, such as inclusiveness, empathy, accountability, and security.
He enjoined leaders to serve with integrity and a sense of divine responsibility, pointing out that true leadership is not about power, but about the people.
He explained that just as Christ served humanity with selflessness and grace, so must those in authority serve with humility and a heart for justice to promote inclusive governance for the common good.
The Christian religious leader was optimistic that the program would rekindle the collective resolve to use religion as a genuine instrument for healing and progress in Nigeria.
Mr. Hayab prayed that it would also serve as a reminder for all that peace is not the absence of war, but the presence of justice, understanding, and purposeful collaboration for a progressive Nigeria.
He stressed the need for Nigerians regardless of tribe or religion to stop suspecting one another and focus on building a culture of trust and unity against divisive tendencies.
Daniel Karlmax
