The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and Abuja has called on Nigerians to “rise above outrage” regarding President Donald Trump’s statement on alleged Christian genocide, instead viewing it as a “rallying point for unity, understanding, and collective national healing.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and Abuja has urged Nigerians to look past outrage over President Donald Trump’s statement on alleged Christian genocide and instead use it as a call for national unity and action, according to Sahara Reporters reporting.
The association’s Chairman, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday that Trump’s remarks should “serve as 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.”
Rev. Hayab reframed the debate, cautioning against groups attempting to weaponise the comments for sectarian gain. He suggested a closer, open-minded reading of Trump’s words indicates concern, not condemnation. Hayab questioned the motives of those interpreting Trump’s warning as hostility toward Nigeria, stating, “He said if nothing is done, his military will come after the terrorists, not after Nigerians — or are some of us admitting that they are part of the terrorists?” Hayab affirmed that the most urgent need is “freedom for all to practice our faith, whether we are Christians, Muslims, or free thinkers.” He concluded that the moment should challenge leaders to rebuild trust and prove that unity, not division, defines the nation.This video discusses the context of the claims of Christian persecution in Nigeria that prompted Donald Trump’s warning of potential military action.
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