Christian leaders across the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have announced the adoption of a new identity.
Hitherto the leaders operated under the banner of Northern CAN.
Announcing the transition in Kaduna after a meeting of the leaders alongside their secretaries and representatives of youth and women wings, the Northern Chairman, Rev. Joseph Hayab said the body would now be known as the Forum of Northern Christians, and the Northern Christian Association.
The transformation Hayab said became necessary in order to clarify the mandate of the Christian body in the area and reinforce their regional voice.
He punctured suggestion that may frame the move as a breakaway from CAN adding that instead it was also a return to the group’s historical roots.
Originally founded in 1964 in Kaduna as the Northern Christian Association, the group in 1976 evolved into the Christian Association of Nigeria.
“We are CAN. We are Christians and we remain members of CAN.
“But when we speak about issues affecting Christians in Northern Nigeria, we believe we should have a distinct and clear identity. There is no quarrel with the national body. Any contrary impression is a misunderstanding,” Hayab explained.
