The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on Sunday observed a nationwide Black Sunday in memory of victims of insecurity, describing the country’s worsening violence as a national tragedy that has left families shattered by terrorism, banditry, kidnappings and armed attacks.
In a message to Christians across the country, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said the symbolic observance was intended to honour the men, women, children, clergy, farmers, students and communities whose lives had been devastated by persistent insecurity.
“Today, we are not only mourning; we are speaking with one voice,” the association said. “Our nation is bleeding, and the church cannot remain silent while innocent lives are lost and families live in fear.”
CAN noted that the commemoration coincided with Democracy Day celebrations, arguing that security remained fundamental to the survival and success of Nigeria’s democratic project.
“Democracy is founded on the sanctity and dignity of human life, the rule of law, justice and the protection of citizens,” the association said.
“There can be no more fitting way to honour the sacrifices that birthed our democracy than by recommitting ourselves to building a nation where every Nigerian can live, work, worship and travel in safety.”
The Christian body expressed solidarity with bereaved families, displaced persons and survivors of attacks, while offering prayers for comfort, healing and justice. Quoting the biblical passage Matthew 5:4 — “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted” — it said Christians nationwide were united in prayer for victims of violence.
At the same time, CAN urged federal, state and local authorities to intensify efforts to tackle the country’s security crisis.
“We call on the government on all levels to take urgent, decisive and sustained measures to secure lives and property across our nation,” the association said.
“The protection of citizens is a sacred responsibility entrusted to those in authority and must be treated with the utmost seriousness.”
The organisation also advised churches, Christian schools, hospitals, mission institutions and other faith-based bodies to strengthen security around their facilities and communities, citing the growing threat posed by criminal and insurgent groups.
“Security awareness, preparedness for emergency situations, collaboration with local security networks and vigilance at all times have become necessary responsibilities in the face of prevailing threats,” it said.
CAN urged Nigerians not to succumb to fear, calling instead for unity, compassion and a renewed commitment to peace and national healing.
The observance was marked in several states, including Borno, where Christians held a procession through Maiduguri and called for an end to abductions and attacks in the state and across the country.
Speaking during the march, the secretary of the Borno State chapter of CAN, Joshua Akeredolu, said the day had been set aside to pray for victims of kidnapping and for an end to insecurity.
“Today is tagged a Black Sunday for all believers in the nation to pray specifically for those who are in the den of kidnappers and to pray against the insecurity that we have found ourselves as a nation,” he said.
“Today is also to pray for our leaders that God should give them direction and focus to end the insecurity.”
Akeredolu lamented the abduction and killing of Christian leaders and worshippers in the state, citing the case of Rev Musa, who was kidnapped alongside his wife in Gamboru Ngala in 2023 and remains in captivity.
He also recalled the killing of an EYN Church pastor in Askira Uba last year, saying many Christians had been targeted because of their faith.
Elsewhere, Apostle Joseph Okoroafor, Deputy Territorial Chairman and Area Superintendent of The Apostolic Church Nigeria, Umuahia Area, urged Christians to continue praying for the country and its leaders.
Speaking at the conclusion of CAN’s three-day period of national mourning and prayer, Okoroafor said believers had a responsibility to seek peace and stability for the nation.
“Recent happenings in Nigeria are disheartening,” he said. “We need to pray for our leaders and the led. We need to pray for Nigeria against bandits and insurgents. We need to pray for Nigeria so that we will have peace.”
