Christian leaders from the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory have officially shed the “Northern CAN” designation, announcing a return to their original name — the Northern Christian Association (NCA).
The resolution was reached at a two-day stakeholders’ summit in Kaduna, bringing together state chairmen, secretaries, and representatives of youth and women groups. The meeting also coincided with the first anniversary of the Northern Chairman, John Joseph Hayab.
Addressing journalists after the meeting, Hayab emphasized that the decision does not signal a split from the national Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). Rather, he described it as a restoration of the group’s foundational identity.
He traced the body’s roots to 1964, when it was established in Kaduna as the Northern Christian Association before becoming part of the national CAN structure in 1976.
“We remain fully part of CAN. There is no disagreement with the national leadership. This is simply about clarity of identity when addressing issues that concern Christians in Northern Nigeria,” he said.
The leaders reaffirmed their loyalty to CAN under its current President, Daniel Okoh, stressing that the change is administrative and historical — not ideological.
Other speakers at the gathering reflected on the historical challenges faced by Christians in the region. They noted that the original 1964 formation emerged during a period of deep concern about representation and security.
In a virtual message, Prof. Yusuf Turaki lamented ongoing insecurity across Northern Nigeria, citing kidnappings, displacement, and economic hardship affecting many communities. He called on the forum to intensify advocacy through constitutional and lawful channels.
The renaming signifies the retirement of the “Northern CAN” title and the restoration of the historic “Northern Christian Association” identity. While reaffirming its continued allegiance to the national Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), the move underscores a renewed commitment to stronger regional advocacy, particularly in addressing issues of security and the collective interests of Christians in Northern Nigeria.
The rebranding signals a strategic repositioning — one rooted in history, but aimed at strengthening the regional Christian voice within Nigeria’s broader religious landscape.
Northern Christian Leaders Adopt “Northern Christian Association” Identity
