The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on Tuesday called on the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on insecurity as attacks, kidnappings and other violent crimes continue to affect communities across the country.
The appeal was made in Abuja by CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, during the presentation of a communiqué issued after the association’s National Church Denominational Leaders Summit 2026.
The summit, which brought together church leaders and delegates from different denominations, examined the state of the nation and discussed possible solutions to the growing challenges facing Nigerians. At the end of the meeting, participants expressed concern over the worsening security situation and urged the government to take stronger and more urgent steps to protect lives and property.
Okoh explained that CAN’s position was not intended as a confrontation with President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Rather, he said the association was reminding the government of its constitutional responsibility to secure the country, protect citizens and ensure their welfare.
According to him, the level of insecurity across different parts of Nigeria has reached a point where extraordinary measures are needed. He said the government must act quickly to stop the continued loss of lives and restore confidence among citizens who are increasingly worried about their safety.
The CAN president also addressed concerns about self-defence. He noted that while the instinct to protect oneself is natural, any action taken by individuals or communities must remain within the limits of the law. He said citizens, including church members, should protect themselves, their families and their property in lawful ways without taking actions that could worsen the situation.
He further disclosed that CAN would continue engaging government officials through public advocacy and private discussions aimed at ensuring greater accountability and more effective responses to security threats. He described the summit as the beginning of a wider effort by the association to push for lasting solutions to the country’s security problems.
Okoh observed that insecurity, which had been more severe in parts of northern Nigeria, is now spreading to other regions of the country. He warned that the growing reach of criminal activities requires urgent attention before the situation becomes even more difficult to control.
The cleric also welcomed international support in tackling insecurity, saying Nigeria should not reject assistance from friendly countries if such cooperation can help improve security. He pointed to ongoing cooperation between Nigeria and the United States in security matters and said partnerships of that nature could contribute to efforts aimed at confronting terrorism and violent crimes.
CAN maintained that every lawful option capable of helping Nigeria overcome its security challenges should be considered, stressing that the safety of citizens must remain a top priority for government at all levels.
The association expressed hope that authorities would respond positively to its recommendations and take decisive action to address the country’s worsening security concerns.