Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on Nigerians to refuse to be discouraged and remain resolute in their commitment to building a united, peaceful and prosperous nation.
The president of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, in his New Year message to Nigerians yesterday, said that it is in Nigerians togetherness that they will find the strength to withstand the trials that beset them.
He said in unity, there is hope, resilience, and the power to rebuild, urging Nigerians to embrace their diversity and allow it to be the bedrock upon which they build a stronger, more harmonious nation.
“As we stand at the dawn of a new year, I want to first express my deepest gratitude to Almighty God for His unfailing protection and mercies that have seen us through the year 2023.
“It is by His grace that we have been preserved, overcoming the trials and tribulations of the past year. We have indeed witnessed His hand in our lives, and for this, we are profoundly thankful.
“We were shocked to find that, as the year drew to a close, the enemies of progress sought to cast a shadow over our joy with acts of extreme violence in some communities on the Plateau,” he said.
According to the CAN president, these acts of aggression against innocent lives are a stark reminder of the fragility of peace in Nigeria.
“In light of these distressing events, our prayers intensify for the souls we have lost and for the bereaved families. We pray earnestly to the Almighty God that such senseless loss of life and wanton destruction of property will never plague our communities again.
“May He guide us towards pathways of peace and grant solace to all who have suffered.
As we look to the year ahead, let us do so with a renewed sense of purpose and an unwavering commitment to fostering a better future for our beloved Nigeria.
“Let us draw strength from our faith, our shared values, and our collective resolve to surmount the obstacles that confront us. Together, as one united people, we are capable of creating a Nigeria where peace, justice, and prosperity are not just ideals, but realities for all.
“May the transformative era that has begun continue to unfold for our nation in the year 2024. Let us march forward with hope and determination, and may God’s blessings be upon Nigeria,” he said.