The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has throw their weight behind the Tax Bill reform and urges other parts of the region to give the proposed tax reform a chance, despite widespread opposition.
The appeal came shortly after the inauguration of a new leadership team convened at the Christian Centre, Abuja whom will steered its affairs for the next five years. In attendance were chairmen and secretaries of state chapters, zonal leaders, bloc representatives, elders, and other stakeholders from across the region.
Commenting on the controversial tax reform bill, the newly elected Chairman of CAN in the North, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, revealed that his team had consulted Christian experts in tax law to understand the implications of the proposed changes and they are convinced.
In his statement, “We concluded in that meeting that we should give the tax bill a trial rather than dismiss it outright. We are open to this approach,” he said, encouraging northern Nigerians to consider the reform despite initial resistance.
Rev. Hayab also spoke on the ongoing security crisis in northern Nigeria, advocated the need for a holistic strategy beyond military intervention.
“I have previously asserted that insecurity cannot merely be resolved by deploying soldiers or police forces. We need a comprehensive strategy that addresses the root causes of these problems,” he said.
Instead, he stressed the importance of tackling the underlying disagreements that are fueling violence to achieve lasting peace in the region.
The newly inaugurated executives of CAN leadership team include Rev. Dr. Jonah Samson from the FCT as Vice Chairman, Bishop Mohammed Naga from Borno State as Secretary General, and Rev. Father Dr. Polycarp Lubo from Plateau State as Treasurer, among others.
While expressing appreciation for the trust placed in the new leadership, Rev. Hayab acknowledged the significant challenges facing Christians in northern Nigeria.
He said, “In recent years, our communities have faced immense challenges—challenges that have tested our faith, our courage, and our commitment to one another”.
He outlined a five-point agenda that will form the working guide for the new team which will include; dialogue and collaboration, community development initiatives, advocacy for justice and equality, integrity in service, and interfaith engagement.
“We must open channels of communication with one another and with our neighbours—regardless of their faith. We need platforms where ideas can flow freely, where we can discuss our differences, and where we can jointly identify solutions to our common challenges,” he said.
Meanwhile, the team reiterated its resolve to prioritize community development by improving access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, particularly for youth, women, and marginalized groups.
