Choose leaders with focus, CAN advises Nigerians
The Evangelist
January 2, 2023
The President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, has expressed hope that Nigerians will not miss or misuse the opportunity to choose leaders with focus and compassion who will lead the country to greatness during the forthcoming general elections.
He also, on Sunday, called on politicians seeking elective positions to be responsible and play politics with the best interests of the masses at heart.
He also called on the government to do more to stop the downward trend of the economy by checking the sources of leakages and wastage of national resources in 2023.
Okoh said these in his New Year’s Message titled, “2023’ll be the year of a turnaround in Nigeria’s fortune.”
While calling on religious leaders to know that there is life after the 2023 general elections, Okoh said their speeches and conduct should focus on encouraging the people to build a Nigeria where equity, justice, and fairness would reign supreme.
The statement read, “The year 2022 was one too many as a result of the seeming unabated climate of fear and uncertainty, not just in Nigeria but across the world. However, as Christians, we will testify to God’s kindness and faithfulness in 2022, considering the unconscionable attempts by criminal elements wielding sophisticated weapons to stake a claim on our lives and freedom, as well as the steady decline in the national economy.
“Amid these challenges, 2023 is a year of golden opportunities for us as a people. I pray that Nigerians will not miss or misuse the opportunity to choose leaders with focus and compassion, who will lead our country to greatness.”
Okoh appealed to security agencies not to relent in their efforts to ensure safety and security in the country and also support the conduct of peaceful general elections in 2023.
He added, “Our politicians should realise that we don’t have any other country but Nigeria. Consequently, this reality should inspire them to be more responsible in playing politics with the best interests of the masses at heart.
“In the same vein, religious leaders should know that there is life after the general elections of 2023. Therefore, our speeches and conduct should focus on encouraging our people to build a Nigeria where equity, justice, and fairness will reign supreme.
“While we look forward to having a better Nigeria, let us continue praying that the Lord will strengthen our present political leaders to oversee the elections and a successful transition to a new administration in 2023.”
He also said the body will continue to partner with the government, civil society, and development partners to build a peaceful and prosperous country.
“We remain non-partisan and will not interfere in the duties of government agencies, but we will always promote and support good governance at all levels. However, the body will continue to raise a prophetic voice when and where necessary,” he added.
