Christian community in the North and Northern Christian Association (NCA) have felicitated the Chairman, Reverend Joseph John Hayab, on his 57th birthday, while commending his commitment to peacebuilding, Christian unity, religious freedom and humanitarian service.

Hayab celebrated his birthday on Saturday, October 24, 2026, with the Association describing him as a bridge-builder whose leadership has continued to promote dialogue, justice and peaceful coexistence across Northern Nigeria and beyond.

In a statement signed by its General Secretary, Bishop Mohammed Naga, the NCA described Hayab as “a national voice, a bridge-builder and a servant of God,” noting that his contributions to Christian leadership and national discourse had remained significant.

The association said his commitment to constructive engagement and principled leadership had reinforced the importance of promoting peace, protecting religious freedom and addressing challenges confronting vulnerable communities.

It noted that Hayab had consistently emphasised the need for Christian leaders to remain united, stand for justice and contribute meaningfully to efforts aimed at building a society where people of different religious and social backgrounds could live together in peace.

The NCA also commended his concern for communities affected by violence, displacement and insecurity, stressing the importance of solidarity, compassion and practical support for those facing hardship.

According to the association, his leadership reflects the Church’s responsibility to speak for vulnerable people, defend human dignity, and encourage peaceful solutions to conflicts.

The statement further highlighted Hayab’s role in promoting cooperation among Christian leaders across the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory, describing unity as essential to strengthening the Christian community and advancing peace in the region.

The association said sustained collaboration among Christian leaders remained important in addressing challenges facing their communities and contributing to the wider quest for national stability.

It added that peacebuilding required courage, patience, dialogue and a willingness to engage constructively with stakeholders, even when dealing with difficult and sensitive issues.

The NCA prayed for God’s continued guidance, sound health, renewed strength and greater wisdom for Hayab as he marks another year, expressing hope that he would continue to make meaningful contributions to Christian unity, religious freedom and humanitarian service.

The association also wished its chairman greater fulfilment in his ministry and public service, praying that his continued leadership would inspire more people to work for peace, justice and the common good.