Palm Sunday Message: CAN Tasks Leaders on Unity, Reassurance, and Responsible Governance

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on those in positions of authority to prioritize policies that will ease hardship, reduce anxiety, and promote unity across the country.

CAN President, Most Reverend Daniel Okoh, made this appeal in his Palm Sunday message, noting that the significance of the day lies in its enduring message of peace, humility, and hope. He urged leaders to reflect these virtues in their style of governance.
He observed that the current situation in the country has left many Nigerians uncertain about how to cope and plan for the future, stressing that leaders must inspire confidence through both their words and actions.
“Across Nigeria, many are feeling the weight of the times. The cost of living is rising. For countless families, daily life is getting harder. Events far beyond our borders, especially tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, are unsettling global energy markets. The impact is already here. Fuel is more expensive. Transport costs are rising. Food prices are climbing. In moments like this, the calm and clarity of Palm Sunday matter even more.
“For many Nigerians, the concern is simple and immediate—how to cope, how to plan, how to stay afloat. When life feels this uncertain, the tone of national life matters. Words carry weight. Actions have consequences. Palm Sunday reminds us that in tense moments, people need reassurance. They need stability. They need the quiet confidence that those in positions of authority understand what they are going through.”
Most Reverend Okoh also called on the Church to deepen unity, support one another, uphold peace, and remain a consistent source of hope and light in challenging times.
“For the Church and all people of faith, Palm Sunday is also a call to responsibility. It reminds us of a rare moment when people from all walks of life come together with one purpose: to welcome the Messiah in hope, humility, and expectation. That same spirit is needed now. We must stand for peace. We must strengthen unity. We must support one another. In a season that can easily tilt towards tension, we must remain a steady source of light and hope