The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has cautioned that millions of Nigerians continue to face hunger, insecurity, and unemployment despite the government’s reform efforts, stressing that true progress must bring tangible relief to households across the nation.

In a statement marking Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, congratulated the country on the milestone but urged leaders to prioritise food security, safety of lives, and opportunities for young people.

“True progress must be measured not only by statistics but by the food on every table, the security of every community, and the opportunities available to every child,” Archbishop Okoh stated.

While acknowledging Nigeria’s growth in education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, and telecommunications since independence, CAN lamented that inflation, unemployment, and the rising cost of living are threatening nation-building.

On security, the body decried the persistent toll of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and communal clashes, calling for stronger collaboration between security agencies, local communities, and faith-based organisations to restore peace.

The association also highlighted the role of young people as Nigeria’s greatest asset but warned that brain drain continues to rob the country of its best minds. It called for sustained investment in education, innovation, and empowerment to create an enabling environment where youth can thrive and contribute to development.

CAN further urged Nigerians to rise above ethnic, religious, and political divides, embrace justice, equity, and patriotism, and support reforms through sacrifice and collective responsibility.

“The dawn of a new Nigeria is possible. With God’s help and our shared determination, we shall build a nation where peace, prosperity, and unity flourish for generations to come,” Archbishop Okoh affirmed.