CAN, Catholic Bishops felicitate Muslim faithful, urge sacrificial living 

The President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has congratulated Muslim faithful on the completion of the Ramadan fast and urged Nigerians to reject division and choose dialogue over distrust, as well as act in ways that heal rather than harm the nation. 
 
In his message to Muslim faithful in the country, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, stated that at a time like this, the nation needs unity more than ever. 

He noted that from insecurity to economic hardship, the challenges before Nigerians are real, adding that Nigeria works best when the citizens stand together; not divided by faith or ethnicity, but united by a common purpose and a shared future.

According to him, the spirit of Eid – kindness, sacrifice and care for others – offers Nigerians a way forward, hence the need to let the Eid be more than a celebration, but also a reset for national conscience.
 
He said: “Eid marks the end of Ramadan, a period of fasting, prayer, reflection and giving. Today, we celebrate with you, not only the breaking of the fast, but also the strengthening of faith, families and hope. We join our Muslim compatriots in prayer for Nigeria; for lasting peace, improved security, economic recovery, and leadership guided by wisdom and compassion. We pray that the right values nurtured during the Ramadan will endure beyond this season, especially in caring for the poor, protecting the vulnerable, and building a more just society.”

Similarly, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) called on Nigerians to move beyond mere coexistence and live as brothers and sisters, working side by side to build a nation founded on justice, truth, and mutual respect.

CBCN noted that at a time when the nation faces serious challenges, including insecurity, economic hardship, and deep social divisions, Nigerians should imbibe the enduring values of sacrifice, solidarity with the poor, forgiveness, and reverence for God for the healing and renewal of the land.

In his goodwill message, President of CBCN, Matthew Man-Oso Ndagoso, noted that this year carries a unique significance as Christians and Muslims began their respective seasons of fasting on the same day, adding that this providential convergence highlights shared commitment to sacrifice, prayer, and reliance on God.

“We extend to you warm greetings and heartfelt congratulations as you celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, marking the completion of the sacred month of Ramadan. Your discipline in fasting, prayer, and alms giving stands as a compelling witness to faith, self-restraint, and devotion to God, offering a timely and much-needed example in a world often marked by excess, distraction, and division,” he said.

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