The Northern chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on President Bola Tinubu and state governors to take urgent steps to guarantee the safety of lives and property during the Christmas season. The group said the festive period should be a time of joy and reflection, not fear, stressing the need for proactive security measures across the country, especially in vulnerable areas.

In a statement, Northern CAN expressed concern over recurring cases of insecurity, including attacks on communities, kidnappings and other crimes that often increase during holidays. The association urged security agencies to be on high alert and deploy adequate personnel to churches, highways, markets and residential areas to prevent any breakdown of law and order.

The group also appealed to political leaders to work closely with traditional rulers, community leaders and faith-based organisations to promote peace and unity. According to CAN, cooperation at the grassroots level is key to gathering timely information and preventing violence, particularly during large religious gatherings associated with Christmas celebrations.

Northern CAN further encouraged Nigerians to remain vigilant and support security efforts by reporting suspicious activities. It wished Christians a peaceful Christmas while calling on leaders at all levels to demonstrate responsibility by ensuring that citizens can celebrate the season safely, without threats to their lives or property.