By Moses Gimba Kolo
The Northern Christian Association (NCA) has urged political leaders across party lines to put national interest above personal aggrandisement as Nigeria approaches another political season.
This is contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by its Chairman, Rev. Joseph John-Hayab, issued to newsmen in Kaduna.
The association also called on Nigerians to use the Eid-el-Kabir celebration for sober reflection on the state of the nation amid rising insecurity, economic hardship, unemployment, and growing social tension.
It congratulated the Muslim Ummah on the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
The NCA described the festival as a symbol of sacrifice, obedience, faith, compassion, and submission to the will of God Almighty.
According to the statement, Nigeria’s difficult realities demand unity of purpose, patriotism, and sincere commitment from all segments of society.
The association noted that Northern Nigeria had endured years of terrorism, banditry, kidnappings, and communal conflicts that had displaced families and devastated communities.
It stressed that such painful experiences should not deepen division but rather strengthen Nigerians’ collective resolve to pursue peace, reconciliation, and national development.
The NCA maintained that Christians and Muslims share a common destiny and collective responsibility for Nigeria’s stability and future, having coexisted for generations as neighbours and partners in nation-building.
It therefore urged Nigerians to reject hatred, incitement, intolerance, and every form of division capable of undermining peaceful coexistence and national unity.
The association further called on Christians and Muslims to keep working together to promote peace, justice, understanding, and national cohesion, insisting that Nigeria’s diversity should be a source of strength, not a tool for political manipulation or conflict.
On the nation’s political climate, the association urged political actors to conduct their activities with maturity, restraint, and respect for democratic principles.
“Nigerians deserve issue-based politics that promote peace, stability, development, and national unity, rather than actions capable of creating unnecessary tension or chaos,” the statement said.
The association also reminded public office holders that leadership “is a sacred trust from God” for the service and welfare of humanity.
It urged leaders to discharge their responsibilities with humility, accountability, justice, and the fear of God, reminded them that every leader would ultimately account for his/her stewardship before God Almighty.
The NCA equally encouraged Nigerians to remember widows, orphans, displaced persons, and families facing economic hardship during the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
It stressed that the essence of the festival lies in sacrifice, compassion, generosity, and care for humanity.
The association prayed for lasting peace, healing, reconciliation, stability, and progress in Nigeria as Muslims across the country mark Eid-el-Kabir.
