The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Northern Nigeria has called for the establishment of lasting peace across the region to ensure its long-term development.
During a courtesy visit to Gombe State Governor, Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, Chairman of CAN in Northern Nigeria, urged the governor to leverage his position as Chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum to spearhead a coordinated regional effort aimed at fostering unity, bridging divisions, and consolidating peace in the North.
Hayab emphasized that such an initiative would not only create a more harmonious environment for the region’s people but also attract investment and facilitate overall development.
The CAN Chairman praised Governor Yahaya for his inclusive and purposeful leadership, commending the transformative changes he has implemented in Gombe State. According to Hayab, Yahaya’s efforts have positioned the state as a model for peace-building and harmonious coexistence, especially in a time when the region faces rising tensions and divisions.
Additionally, Hayab acknowledged the Governor’s timely interventions during times of crisis, noting that Yahaya has demonstrated the leadership necessary to guide urgent conversations and actions to restore shared values of unity, peace, and mutual respect.
In his remarks, Hayab called on the Governor to rally his colleagues within the Forum to adopt a collective agenda for regional healing and reintegration. He proposed the creation of a comprehensive North-wide peace and unity framework that would bring together traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth influencers, and public officials. This framework would focus on regular dialogue and collaborative efforts aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence throughout the region.
Hayab concluded with a powerful message, stating, “The future stability of the region hinges on raising a generation of young people who will grow, learn, and work together—united not by religion or ethnicity, but by shared humanity and a collective vision for progress.”
