The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has called on Nigerians in the region to give the proposed tax reform a chance, despite widespread opposition. The appeal came shortly after the inauguration of a new leadership team elected to guide the association’s affairs for the
Northern CAN takes fresh position on tax reform bills
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has called on Nigerians in the region to give the proposed tax reform a chance, despite widespread opposition.
The appeal came shortly after the inauguration of a new leadership team elected to guide the association’s affairs for the next five years. The election took place at the National Christian Centre in Abuja, bringing together chairmen and secretaries of state chapters, zonal leaders, bloc representatives, elders, and other stakeholders from across the region.
Speaking on the controversial tax reform, the newly elected Chairman of CAN in the North, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, stated that the association had consulted Christian experts in tax law to understand the implications of the proposed changes.
“We concluded in that meeting that we should give the tax bill a trial rather than dismiss it outright. We are open to this approach,” he said, encouraging northern Nigerians to consider the reform despite initial resistance.
Rev. Hayab also addressed the ongoing security crisis in northern Nigeria, emphasizing the need for a holistic strategy beyond military intervention.
“I have previously asserted that insecurity cannot merely be resolved by deploying soldiers or police forces. We need a comprehensive strategy that addresses the root causes of these problems,” he said.
The CAN leader stressed the importance of tackling the underlying issues fueling violence to achieve lasting peace in the region.
The newly elected CAN leadership team includes Rev. Dr. Jonah Samson from the FCT as Vice Chairman, Bishop Mohammed Naga from Borno State as Secretary General, and Rev. Father Dr. Polycarp Lubo from Plateau State as Treasurer, among others.
Expressing gratitude for the trust placed in the new leadership, Rev. Hayab acknowledged the significant challenges facing Christians in northern Nigeria.
“In recent years, our communities have faced immense challenges—challenges that have tested our faith, our courage, and our commitment to one another,” he said.
To guide the association’s efforts, he outlined a five-point agenda focusing on dialogue and collaboration, community development initiatives, advocacy for justice and equality, integrity in service, and interfaith engagement.
“We must open channels of communication with one another and with our neighbours—regardless of their faith. We need platforms where ideas can flow freely, where we can discuss our differences, and where we can jointly identify solutions to our common challenges,” he said.
The new leadership also pledged to prioritize community development by improving access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, particularly for youth, women, and marginalized groups.
“Our development is intricately linked to our peace and unity,” Rev. Hayab emphasized, calling on Christians in northern Nigeria to remain committed to unity, peace, and development.
Northern CAN takes fresh position on tax reform bills
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