First Christmas Without Church Attack in Years’ — CAN Commends Tinubu Over Improved Security

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what it described as a significant improvement in national security, noting that the 2025 Christmas celebration passed without reports of attacks on churches — a development the body says has not occurred in several years.

According to the Christian umbrella body, the absence of church attacks during the festive period marked a notable shift in Nigeria’s security landscape and offered renewed hope to millions of Christians who have long celebrated Christmas under fear and uncertainty.

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A Rare Christmas Without Fear

In a statement issued by CAN’s national leadership, the association described the peaceful celebrations as a “welcome relief” following years of deadly assaults on worship centres, particularly in parts of northern Nigeria.

According to Akahi News, CAN noted that past Christmas seasons were often overshadowed by bombings, coordinated attacks, and violent disruptions that left worshippers dead or traumatised.

“This is the first Christmas in years without reports of church attacks,” the CAN president stated, describing the moment as both symbolic and reassuring for Christians across the country.

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CAN Credits Tinubu’s Security Approach

The association attributed the calm to what it called improved coordination among security agencies and renewed political commitment from the federal government under President Bola Tinubu.

CAN acknowledged that while security challenges persist in different parts of the country, the relative peace during the Christmas season signalled progress worth recognising.

“While there is still much work to be done, this development deserves commendation,” the association said, adding that the government must sustain the momentum and deepen security reforms nationwide.

According to Akahi News, CAN urged the administration not to view the calm as a final victory but as a foundation upon which long-term peace strategies must be built.

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A Symbolic Moment for National Unity

Observers say the absence of attacks during Christmas carries deep symbolic meaning in a country where religious violence has often strained interfaith relations.

Analysts note that peaceful celebrations not only restore public confidence but also send a message that coexistence remains possible despite years of division and insecurity.

CAN stressed that the safety of worshippers should never be seasonal, urging the federal government to ensure equal protection for all Nigerians, regardless of faith or region.

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Call for Sustained Security Efforts

Despite the commendation, the Christian body cautioned against complacency. It urged security agencies to remain vigilant and proactive, especially in rural and vulnerable communities where threats often go unnoticed.

The association also called for improved intelligence gathering, community engagement, and accountability within the security architecture.

According to Akahi News, CAN emphasised that sustainable peace would require not only military responses but also social justice, economic inclusion, and responsible governance.

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As Nigerians reflect on a relatively peaceful Christmas, the message from CAN is clear: progress has been made, but the journey toward lasting security is far from over.

The group urged the Tinubu administration to consolidate recent gains and ensure that future festive seasons remain free from fear and bloodshed.

For continued updates and in-depth national coverage, stay with Akahi News.

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By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.
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