Nigeria needs trust, not suspicion – CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh

The President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Co-Chairman of the Nigeria Interreligious Council (NIREC), Archbishop Daniel Okoh has appealed for Nigerians to cast aside mutual suspicion and embrace trust as a cornerstone of national cohesion.

At the inaugural session of NIREC’s First Tri-Annual Meeting for 2025, held in Owerri, Imo State, Archbishop Okoh stressed the critical role of religious, political, and community leaders in fostering a culture of trust to secure long-term peace and development.

Addressing the theme, “Building Mutual Trust for National Unity,” in his address, the clergyman urged the nation to confront its historical divisions and move towards reconciliation.

He called for a shift in perception viewing one another not through prejudice, but through shared humanity.

“We must begin to see one another not through the distorted lens of prejudice, but through the dignified lens of shared humanity under one God. Only a healed nation can trust itself. And only a trusting nation can truly prosper,” he stated.

The Archbishop commended Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, for hosting the meeting and for his consistent efforts in promoting inclusive governance and peace in the region.

He also extended gratitude to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Dr George Akume, acknowledging his steadfast backing of NIREC’s peacebuilding work throughout the country.

Reflecting on NIREC’s legacy since its inception in 1999, Okoh highlighted the council’s continued service as a moral guide building bridges between Nigeria’s two dominant religions and advocating peaceful coexistence across ethnic and ideological lines.

A key announcement from the event was the establishment of Interreligious Councils in all five South Eastern states, described by the Archbishop as “sacred spaces for sincere dialogue, mutual respect, healing, and community building.”

He urged all citizens to actively contribute to the nation’s progress, fostering trust in every sphere of society.

Editing by Adeniyi Bakare