By Tgnews
In a poignant press statement today, Rev. Dr. Yakubu Pam, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Northern Region, mourned the passing of Pope Francis, describing it as a profound loss to the global Christian community and a symbolic moment for Nigeria.
The revered pontiff’s death during the Easter season, a time of spiritual reflection and renewal, has ignited a powerful call for unity and action to address the nation’s escalating insecurity.
Rev. Dr. Pam hailed Pope Francis as a “spiritual father and global voice of conscience,” whose life exemplified humility, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to peace. “His transition during the sacred Easter season is profoundly symbolic,” Pam stated, urging Nigerians to embrace the Easter message of hope and resurrection amid national turmoil.
“Pope Francis lived out this calling through his relentless pursuit of compassion for the poor, dialogue among nations, and reconciliation among peoples.”
We must not allow these challenges to become a new normal
The statement comes at a time when Nigeria grapples with unrelenting violence and instability, particularly in states like Plateau, Benue, and Borno. Rev. Dr. Pam painted a grim picture of the ongoing crisis, decrying the “bloodshed, displacement, and destruction of communities” as not only tragic but “unacceptable.” He warned against the normalization of such suffering, declaring, “We must not allow these challenges to become a new normal.”
In a direct appeal, the CAN Northern Region Chairman called on the Federal Government, state governors, security agencies, traditional rulers, and religious leaders to seize this moment as a “sacred opportunity” for renewal. He emphasized the need for “unified action, genuine political will, and a return to justice and accountability” to safeguard lives and restore peace across the country.
Drawing inspiration from Pope Francis’ legacy, Rev. Dr. Pam urged Nigerians of all faiths and backgrounds to reject indifference and work collectively to heal the nation. “Let us rise together—Christians, Muslims, and people of all faiths—to restore the dignity of every Nigerian citizen,” he declared.
The statement concluded with prayers for the Catholic Church, the global Christian community, and Nigeria itself. “May the passing of this great servant of God awaken in us a new determination to build a just, secure, and united Nigeria,” Pam said.
Let us rise together—Christians, Muslims, and people of all faiths—to restore the dignity of every Nigerian citizen
As the nation mourns a global icon, Rev. Dr. Yakubu Pam’s words resonate as both a lament and a rallying cry, challenging Nigeria to transform grief into a catalyst for change.
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