The [Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nigerian_Supreme_Council_for_Islamic_Affairs) (NSCIA) has welcomed the 50th anniversary of the [Christian Association of Nigeria](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christian_Association_of_Nigeria) (CAN), describing it as a pivotal moment for religious leaders to reinforce national cohesion and nurture peaceful coexistence across the federation.
In its statement, the council noted that Nigeria has navigated numerous trials over the past five decades, including insecurity, poverty, unemployment and social inequality. It emphasized that “through these periods, religious leaders and institutions have continued to play an important role in promoting peace, dialogue, mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence among the diverse peoples and faith communities of the country.”
The NSCIA highlighted that Muslims and Christians together form the overwhelming majority of Nigerians, sharing a collective duty to advance justice, security, responsible citizenship and the country’s development. It warned that challenges such as injustice, insecurity, poverty, unemployment, social disparity and the need for accountable governance require the joint effort of all citizens.
The council praised platforms that enable constructive engagement between the two faiths, specifically mentioning the [Nigeria Inter-Religious Council](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nigeria_Inter-Religious_Council) (NIREC) as a valuable forum for dialogue on peace, unity and development.
Congratulatory remarks were extended to Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of CAN, as well as the National Executive Committee, the various Christian denominations and associations under its umbrella, and to Christians throughout the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.