By Onilede Titi Faith
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory has urged Nigerians to interpret U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent comments on alleged Christian persecution in Nigeria as a call for peace and unity, not division.
The Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. John Hayab, made the appeal on Tuesday in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
Trump had recently alleged that Christians in Nigeria were facing genocide and called for global attention, a statement that has sparked wide debate across the country.
Hayab said the comments should serve as a wake-up call for Christians and Muslims alike to demand decisive government action against killings and religious intolerance.
“Trump’s statement should be seen as an opportunity for peace-loving Nigerians to unite and urge the government to stop the killing of anyone based on religion or identity,” he said.
He added that Trump’s words, when viewed objectively, reflected concern rather than condemnation.
“If you read Trump’s statement with an open mind, you’ll hear the voice of a visitor urging us to do more to enjoy peace and unity in our country,” Hayab stated.
He cautioned against twisting Trump’s comments to sow discord, stressing that all Nigerians desire the freedom to practice their faith without fear or discrimination.
“What we want is freedom for all, Christians, Muslims, or free thinkers to worship as they choose,” he said.
Hayab also called on religious leaders, government authorities, and citizens to prioritise peacebuilding and national reconciliation.
