The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has denied reports suggesting that its leadership dismissed ongoing attacks on Christian communities in Nigeria as a “so-called Christian genocide” following a visit by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Policy Communication, Barrister Daniel Bwala.
In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the association said the reports misrepresented discussions held at its secretariat in Abuja on Monday, October 20, 2025.
According to CAN, Bwala’s visit to the National Christian Centre was to engage the association on its position regarding U.S. Senator Ted Cruz’s remarks describing the widespread killings of Christians in Nigeria as “Christian genocide.” During the meeting, Bwala reportedly noted that insecurity has affected both Christians and Muslims and that the current administration is working to address it.
However, CAN stressed that its stance on the matter “has long been established and remains unchanged.” It reiterated that Christian communities across Northern Nigeria and the Middle Belt have suffered “repeated, organised, and brutal attacks” that have left thousands dead, villages destroyed, and families displaced.
The association condemned a press release purportedly issued by Bwala and titled “Presidency Debunks Western Christian Genocide Narrative in Dialogue with CAN Leadership.” According to CAN, the release falsely implied that Archbishop Okoh downplayed the killings.
“That portrayal is completely false and grossly unfair,” the statement said. “The meeting was recorded by CAN’s media team, and at no point did Archbishop Okoh use such words or express such a view. Referring to the tragedy as a ‘so-called genocide’ trivialises the pain of countless Christians who have lost loved ones, homes, and places of worship.”
CAN disclosed that its Director of Planning, Research and Strategy, Bishop Mike Akpami, presented verified data from orfa.africa showing consistent and targeted attacks on Christians across several parts of Africa, including Nigeria.
The meeting was attended by Archbishop Okoh and other senior officials, including Rev. (Dr.) Stephen Panya Baba, Vice President; Apostle (Prof.) Samson Fatokun, General Secretary; and several departmental directors. CAN clarified that Rev. (Dr.) Uzoaku Williams and Dr. Celestine Aharanwa, whose names appeared in some reports, were not present.
