The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called for a nationwide one-day prayer to seek divine intervention against what it described as ongoing persecution of Christians in parts of the country. The directive follows resolutions from CAN’s National Executive Council meeting held in Jos, Plateau State.
In a memo dated 20 November 2025, signed by CAN General Secretary Apostle Prof. Samson A. Fatokun, church leaders at all levels—including bloc leaders, zonal and state chairmen, denominational heads, and resident pastors—were urged to mobilize congregations for the special prayer scheduled for Sunday, 7 December 2025. The prayer will be observed simultaneously across all Christian denominations in Nigeria, focusing on five main themes.
The prayer points will include: ending the alleged attacks on Christians, ensuring the safe return and resettlement of displaced persons, halting the activities of terrorists, kidnappers, and bandits, granting wisdom to government authorities, and restoring peace and stability nationwide. CAN President, His Eminence Archbishop (Dr.) Daniel C. Okah, was quoted saying: “We firmly believe that God will rise in power, just as He did in the days of Esther.”
The announcement comes in the wake of the recent mass abduction in Niger State, where 315 pupils and students were seized from St Mary’s Private Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area, including 12 teachers. Further verification revealed that 88 additional students, initially thought safe, were captured while attempting to escape.
CAN’s nationwide prayer initiative aims to unite Christians in interceding for divine protection, guidance for leadership, and the restoration of peace in communities affected by insecurity and violent attacks across Nigeria.
