Tinubu’s Inclusive governance earns CAN’s praise, as group seeks greater representation

January 25, 2025

By Ayinde Adeleke

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the Northern region has lauded President Bola Tinubu’s efforts towards inclusive governance, stating that it has overshadowed the controversy surrounding the Muslim-Muslim ticket issue.

Rev. Yakubu Pam, Chairman of Northern CAN, expressed this sentiment after the National Executive Committee meeting of the Association in Kaduna.

Pam emphasized that while the government has demonstrated inclusiveness, having Christians in key positions, such as the Vice Presidency, would be beneficial.

“For me, the most important thing is a government that is inclusive, and as far as they have done Muslim-Muslim ticket, we have also seen reasonable inclusiveness,” he said.

“Left for us, we will say yes, let’s have Christians in certain positions like Vice President and other positions to reflect our diversity. The Presidency will be good to bring a Christian as number two. We will appreciate it.”

Pam also raised concerns about the rising cost of living and limited economic opportunities, which have left Nigerians struggling to survive.

He appealed to the government to declare a state of emergency on the issue of insecurity and to take urgent steps to address the economic hardship facing many Nigerians.

“We know that the desire of people is to see that insecurity is addressed so that they can go about their normal daily activities without fear,” Pam said.

Pam lamented that Christians in some northern states face challenges in acquiring land for church buildings and are marginalized in political appointments.

“Christians in some states still face challenges in acquiring land for church buildings, as well as marginalization in political appointments and access to opportunities,” he said.

In response, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, assured the Northern CAN that Tinubu is committed to promoting good governance, equity, and inclusivity across all regions of Nigeria. Akume acknowledged the concerns regarding difficulties in acquiring land for church buildings and the perceived exclusion of Northern Christians in key political appointments.

“Rest assured that this administration is determined to address the pressing challenges facing the Northern region, including insecurity, kidnapping, farmer-herder conflicts, and economic hardship,” he said.

Akume commended the Northern CAN for its continued prayers, advocacy, and efforts to maintain peace and unity in Northern Nigeria.

“Let me commend the Northern CAN for your continued prayers, advocacy, and efforts to maintain peace and unity in Northern Nigeria.

Your role in promoting interfaith dialogue and fostering understanding in this region is invaluable,” he said.