Eid-el-Kabir: CAN Urges Leaders to Show Sacrifice Through Service, Compassion
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on leaders across the country to embody the spirit of sacrifice by embracing honesty, service, and compassion as Muslims celebrate Eid-el-Kabir.
In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN congratulated Muslim faithful in Nigeria and around the world, describing Eid-el-Kabir as a festival that represents faith, obedience, and devotion to God.
The association noted that the celebration comes at a challenging time for many Nigerians, who are grappling with economic hardship, insecurity, and uncertainty about the future.
CAN lamented the worsening living conditions in the country, stating that many citizens now experience hardship in everyday realities such as skipped meals, unpaid school fees, struggling businesses, and sleepless nights. It added that rising living costs, insecurity, and economic pressure have left families, farmers, and young people increasingly vulnerable and uncertain.
According to the statement, the true meaning of Eid-el-Kabir should serve as a reminder that sacrifice must also be demonstrated by those in leadership.
“At a moment like this, the deeper meaning of Eid-el-Kabir becomes even more important. Sacrifice must not remain a burden carried only by ordinary citizens. Leadership must also reflect sacrifice through honesty, restraint, service, compassion and visible commitment to the well-being of the people,” the statement read.
CAN urged leaders across government, politics, business, security agencies, and religious institutions to abandon indifference, blame-shifting, and self-interest, and instead focus on rebuilding public trust and easing hardship.
It further stressed that Nigerians need tangible hope, not empty promises, adding that leadership must be seen in action, responsiveness, and shared responsibility.
The Christian body also warned against allowing economic hardship to deepen ethnic, religious, or regional divisions, noting that poverty and insecurity affect all citizens regardless of background.
CAN added that religious leaders must continue to promote peace, moderation, and reconciliation amid rising tensions in various communities.
As Muslims celebrate Eid-el-Kabir, the association encouraged wealthy individuals, corporate organisations, and public-spirited Nigerians to support the poor, widows, orphans, displaced persons, and struggling families, stressing that the essence of sacrifice is best expressed through acts that restore dignity and hope.
CAN expressed optimism that Nigeria can overcome its current challenges through sacrifice, justice, compassion, and unity, while praying for peace, healing, and renewed hope across the country.
