The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has elected new executives, with Rev. Joseph Hayab emerging as chairman.

The new leadership will oversee the association’s affairs for five years.

In his acceptance speech during the unopposed election in Abuja, Rev. Hayab reaffirmed his commitment to integrity, unity, and transparency.

He emphasised that his administration would not be driven by greed but by service to the Christian community and Nigeria.

“We will not allow greed to take over our conscience. We will always be proud of you and make you proud. I want my children to grow up and be proud of their father, son, and son-in-law with integrity,” he said.

He stressed that CAN is an organisation for Christians and believers in Nigerian unity, and progress. He assured members that his leadership would foster dialogue and cooperation with churches across different denominations.

Rev. Hayab acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing leadership and called on them to support the new administration. He urged Christian leaders to respect leadership transitions and avoid conflicts during handovers.

“This was not a coup. It was simply a day for them to leave. If we start respecting leadership transitions, we will set a good example for others. Unlike the political class that seeks tenure elongation, we will serve our term and leave,” he stated.

He also underscored the church’s role in promoting truth, peace, and unity, assuring that CAN would engage constructively with the government without hostility.

“We will speak truth to power, but we are not enemies of the government. We want every administration to succeed, and we will contribute to that success by offering honest counsel,” he added.

Bishop Stephen Adegbite, the executive secretary of the Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), congratulated the new CAN leadership and reiterated the importance of religious harmony.

He highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting both Christian and Muslim communities.

“Mr President is not a religious bigot. What he promised Muslims, he has also done for Christians. We have ensured that chairmen from all states can participate in pilgrimages free of charge. Nigeria remains one indivisible entity, and we must stay together,” he said.

He further urged prayers for the country’s leadership and added that his office would continue to promote interfaith relations in accordance with the president’s vision.

Some of the newly elected officials include: chairman: Rev. Joseph John Hayab, vice chairman: Rev. Dr. Jonah Samson TEKAN (ECWA, FCT), secretary: Bishop Mohammed Naga (PFN/CPFN, Borno State), assistant secretary: Ven. Tajudeen Azeez Afolabi (OAIC Bloc, Zamfara State), treasurer: Rev. Fr. Polycarp Lubo (CSN Bloc, Plateau State), and director, national issues: Pastor Dr. Simon A.S Dolly (CCN Bloc, Nasarawa State).

The new leadership has pledged to strengthen CAN’s presence in Abuja and ensure Northern CAN is more visible nationally.