CAN Renews Alarm Over killings Of Christians In Nigeria

Church leaders gathered in Jos on Tuesday as the Christian Association of Nigeria raised fresh concern over what it described as ongoing targeted attacks against Christian communities across the North and Middle Belt.

The group said the violence has led to deaths, mass displacement and the destruction of villages, urging both the federal government and international partners to act quickly.

The alarm came during the opening of CAN’s Fourth Quarterly National Executive Council meeting, where Archbishop Daniel Okoh said the choice of Jos was deliberate because the city has lived through years of bloodshed and hardship. He told delegates that the area represents both the pain and resilience of Christian families who have endured repeated attacks over the years.

The CAN President recounted recent visits to displaced persons in Bokkos, where he said many families continue to live with deep physical and emotional scars. He stressed that the community has remained strong despite their losses, and reminded them that church leaders stand with them as they push for justice and protection.

CAN also described the attacks as coordinated and targeted, noting that thousands have been killed and many more forced from their ancestral homes without any real accountability. The association said international attention has increased in recent months, and although the global spotlight is uncomfortable, it may help drive the decisive action needed to secure the affected areas.

The group called on the federal government to step up efforts to protect vulnerable communities and to address the ongoing kidnappings and mass displacements still happening across the region. CAN acknowledged the work of security agencies but said the situation has not improved enough to reassure affected families.

Church leaders at the meeting urged the government to return displaced families to their homes and prevent the humanitarian crisis from worsening. They also appealed for unity among Christian leaders, saying the current situation requires courage, cooperation and steady guidance as communities navigate one of the toughest periods in recent years.