The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Niger State Chapter, has urged the federal and Niger State governments to intensify efforts to reduce hardship and curb insecurity in the state. In his Easter message titled "Be Hopeful, Be Resilient, Be Compassionate," the State Chairman of CAN, Most Rev. Dr Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, called for urgent action to address the suffering of citizens. Bishop Yohanna, who also serves as Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, described Easter as a symbol of hope and renewal rooted in 1 Corinthians 15:3–4. He cited the toll of insecurity, including loss of lives, displacement, and disruption of farming activities, as critical issues needing immediate redress. "We urge the Federal and State Governments to take decisive steps to alleviate the sufferings of the people and bring an end to the insecurity that has ravaged our communities," he said. He encouraged Christians to show compassion through acts of love and support for widows, orphans, and vulnerable groups. Bishop Yohanna also urged residents to pray for Governor Umaru Bago, asking that God grant him wisdom to implement the 'New Niger Agenda' and complete ongoing projects. He advocated for inclusive governance and called on citizens, especially Christians, to participate in the 2027 general elections as part of their civic duty.
A church leader speaking on insecurity and hardship is not the same as a government delivering solutions. Bishop Yohanna's appeal mirrors what Nigerians have been saying in markets, homes, and town halls long before Easter. When religious figures must repeatedly call for basic safety and economic relief, it signals that governance is operating at a deficit. This message changes nothing unless Governor Bago and federal officials match the rhetoric with visible, measurable action.
