The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Tuesday called on the federal government and leaders at all levels to move beyond promises and take concrete steps to address insecurity and rising cost of living in the country.

CAN president, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, made the call in his Eid-el-Maulud message to Muslims, saying Nigerians were tired of promises and wanted to see tangible improvements in their lives.

Okoh congratulated Muslims across Nigeria on the celebration, while  urging them to reflect on the values of mercy, justice, compassion for the poor and vulnerable, honesty and peaceful coexistence associated with the life of Prophet Muhammad.

He said the values were particularly relevant to Nigeria at a time when many citizens were facing economic hardship and insecurity.

“This celebration comes at a difficult time for many Nigerians. The pressure of rising living costs and insecurity is being felt in homes and communities across the country. People are tired of promises; they want to see their lives improve,” he said.

The CAN president urged the government to prioritise the welfare and security of Nigerians, adding that leadership should be measured by its impact on the lives of citizens.

“Leadership is not measured by what we promise, but by what Nigerians can see and feel,” Okoh stated.

With the 2027 elections approaching, he also cautioned politicians against exploiting religious and ethnic differences for political gain.

He urged Christians and Muslims to resist attempts to divide them, adding that the unity of Nigeria must remain beyond electoral contests.

“Elections will come and go, but the bonds that hold Nigeria together must remain,” he said.

Okoh called on Nigerians to protect their communities, care for vulnerable people and work together to promote peace.

He expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, but said such hope must be backed by responsible leadership, good citizenship and justice.

He prayed that the Eid-el-Maulud celebration would renew Nigerians’ commitment to mercy, peace and compassion and inspire the building of a country where every citizen could live with dignity and hope.