Northern CAN Says Trump’s Remark Promotes Peace and Unity in Nigeria

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory has called on Christians and Muslims to embrace peace and unity in response to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent remarks on alleged persecution of Christians in Nigeria.

Rev. John Hayab, Chairman of the association, stated in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday that Trump’s statement should not be viewed as divisive but rather as an appeal for Nigerians to work together to end killings and religious intolerance nationwide.

Trump had recently alleged that Christians in Nigeria were being persecuted and urged the international community to pay attention to the issue — a comment that has since stirred debate both within and outside the country.

According to Hayab, the remarks should be seen as a wake-up call for citizens of all faiths to demand concrete action from the government to safeguard the lives and rights of every Nigerian, regardless of religion or ethnicity.

“Trump’s statement about alleged Christian genocide in Nigeria should inspire peace-loving Christians and Muslims to unite and press the government to stop the killing of anyone based on religion or identity,” Hayab said.

He noted that a fair interpretation of Trump’s words shows concern rather than criticism, describing them as the voice of an outsider urging Nigerians to promote harmony. “If you read President Trump’s statement with an open mind, you’ll see the voice of someone who genuinely cares and wants Nigerians to take meaningful steps toward lasting peace and unity,” he added.

The cleric warned against individuals or groups attempting to twist the message for political or religious gain, stressing that such actions only deepen national division.

“We must ignore those who manipulate or misinterpret his words to set us against one another,” Hayab cautioned.

He further clarified that Trump’s warning targeted terrorists, not Nigerians, and questioned why anyone would take offense unless they identified with the perpetrators.

Hayab emphasized that what Nigerians need most is the freedom to practice their beliefs without fear or discrimination.

“All we desire is freedom for everyone — Christians, Muslims, or free thinkers — to practice their faith without intimidation,” he stated.

He concluded by urging religious leaders, public officials, and citizens to prioritize peacebuilding, unity, and true national reconciliation.