The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and Abuja has called on peace-loving Christians and Muslims to use U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent comments on alleged Christian genocide in Nigeria as an opportunity for unity and collective action.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday, the Chairman of the association, Rev. John Hayab, said Nigerians should not view Trump’s statement as divisive but rather as a wake-up call to work together in addressing killings and religious intolerance across the country.
Trump had recently alleged that Christians in Nigeria were facing persecution, a claim that has sparked public debate within and outside the country.
Rev. Hayab, however, said the statement should be taken as a reminder for all faith communities to demand concrete steps from the government to ensure the safety and freedom of all citizens, regardless of religion or background.
“Trump’s statement about Christian genocide in Nigeria should be an opportunity for peace-loving Christians and Muslims to unite and demand concrete action by our government to stop the killing of anybody because of religion or any form of identity,” he said.
He added that a fair reading of Trump’s remarks revealed concern rather than condemnation, describing them as the voice of an outsider urging Nigerians to uphold peace and unity.
“If you choose to read President Trump’s statement with an open mind, you will simply hear the voice of a visitor who cares about you and wants you to do something serious to enjoy peace and unity in your country,” Hayab noted.
The CAN chairman also warned against attempts to twist Trump’s comments to fuel division among Nigerians.
“We should disregard those who are manipulating and twisting what was said to instigate us against one another to divide us further,” he said.
He emphasized that what Nigerians desire is freedom for everyone to practice their faith without fear or discrimination.
“What we want is freedom for all to practice our faith, whether we are Christians, Muslims, or free thinkers,” Hayab stated.
Hayab urged religious leaders, government authorities, and citizens to prioritise peacebuilding and national reconciliation, stressing that unity remains key to overcoming the country’s security and social challenges.
