The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has declared Sunday, June 14, 2026, as a nationwide “Black Sunday” to honour victims of terrorism, kidnapping, and other violent attacks across the country.
The association also unveiled a three-day national prayer programme scheduled to hold from June 12 to June 14 as part of efforts to seek divine intervention over Nigeria’s security challenges.
Speaking after the National Church Denominational Leadership Summit 2026, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said prayer must be complemented with decisive action to address the worsening insecurity confronting the nation.
According to him, Nigeria’s security situation has reached a critical stage and requires urgent and practical solutions from government authorities.
Okoh called on the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on insecurity, stressing that extraordinary measures are needed to tackle the crisis and protect lives and property.
He also renewed calls for the creation of state police and the decentralisation of the country’s security structure, arguing that localised policing would improve response times and strengthen efforts to combat crime.
The CAN president further demanded the unconditional release of all kidnapped persons across the country and urged authorities to ensure justice for victims and their families.
He maintained that beyond prayers, government at all levels must take concrete steps to restore public confidence and guarantee the safety of citizens.
