… Says “Majority of Nigerians are suffering”
Daniel Atori and Mairo Allawa
As Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary, Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Niger State Chapter, the Chairman Most Rev. Dr. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna has called on President Bola Tinubu to make frantic efforts to stabilise the economy of the nation, saying “the majority of Nigerians are suffering”.
The CAN Chairman who is also the Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese said at the Interdenominational prayers to commemorate the 66th Independence anniversary of Nigeria organised by the CAN at the State secretariat Minna, that “Nigeria shall rise again”.
In his words: “I call on President Bola Tinubu to make frantic efforts to do all he can to stabilise the economy and ensure the security of lives and properties especially in areas affected by insecurity.
“We look forward to the drastic reduction in fuel price, food prices, decline inflation, a strengthened currency and growing of external reserves”.
Bishop Yohanna then said over the decades, as a nation, Nigeria has experienced moments of triumph and moments of trials. Seasons of progress and so on. “Yet, through it all, we have endured. And because Nigeria has endured, Nigeria shall rise again,” he added.
The Chairman of CAN also urged Nigerian leaders to translate national policy reforms into practical, life-improving benefits, job creation, infrastructure development, and reduced living costs—for ordinary citizens.
Expressing optimism, Bishop Yohanna said “as a Body, we believe that the challenges even though enormous, are surmountable, and by the grace of God there will be light at the end of the tunnel.
“As people of faith, we must continue to pray for Nigeria—but our prayers must also produce action. Let our prayers make us better citizens in all spheres of life”.
While appealing to churches to be non Partisan as the country prepares for the 2027 General Elections, Bishop Yohanna said “I want to caution against turning Christian gatherings into platforms for political campaigning. As religious leaders we should promote peace and encourage responsible participation”.
He then prayed for a better country saying “our prayer is simple but profound: “There shall be a new Nigeria”. This decree we all must make. We will see the Nation of our dream. A great nation shall be born.
“I pray for a Nigeria where every child can dream, and has the opportunity to fulfil that dream. A Nigeria where our diversity is not a source of division, but a strength; where our shared humanity unites us and our common destiny inspires us.
Furthermore, the CAN Chairman while congratulating Governor Umaru Bago and all well meaning Nigerlites on the 66th anniversary of nationhood, urged him to remain determined and resolute in ensuring lives and livelihoods are secured and that the New Niger Agenda is achieved to the benefit of all.
In his remarks, Governor Umaru Bago who was represented by Dr. Jonathan Wasa urged the people of the state to sustain their prayers for the nation, Niger State, and for leaders at all levels to rightly and effectively lead the people and the society to greatness.
While urging Nigerlites to be thankful to God for the unity in diversity despite the challenges faced, Governor Bago expressed hope for a better, greater, and prosperous Niger State in particular and Nigeria in general.
The climax of the event were prayers for the nation and leaders by various Blocs and Christian leaders.
