Nigeria at 65: Nigerians hungry for food, not just statistics – CAN

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The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has warned that millions of citizens are still grappling with hunger, insecurity, and joblessness despite ongoing reforms, stressing that true progress must go beyond economic statistics to tangible relief in households across the country.

In a statement signed by Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of CAN, to mark Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary, the apex Christian body congratulated the nation on its milestone but urged leaders to prioritise policies that deliver food security, protection of lives, and opportunities for young people.“True progress must be measured not only by statistics but by the food on every table, the security of every community, and the opportunities available to every child,” Archbishop Okoh said.

CAN acknowledged that Nigeria has recorded notable growth in education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, and telecommunications since independence.

It recalled that from a handful of schools and institutions in 1960, the country now boasts thousands, producing generations of young men and women shaping the nation’s future.

However, the association stressed that the ‘unfinished’ business of nation-building is being undermined by rising costs of living, food insecurity, unemployment, and inflation.

“We pray that God will grant our leaders the wisdom, courage, and strength to drive the reforms to a point where Nigerians will rejoice, and may He protect them from sycophants who do not mean well for our nation,” Archbishop Okoh added.

On security, CAN lamented that terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and communal conflicts have inflicted deep pain on citizens and displaced families across the country.