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The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and Abuja has called on Nigerians to rise above outrage and use former U.S. President Donald Trump’s statement on alleged Christian genocide as a rallying point for unity, understanding, and collective national healing.
Rather than viewing Trump’s comments as a trigger for religious friction, the association’s Chairman, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday that the remarks should “serve as an opportunity for peace-loving Christians and Muslims to unite and demand concrete action by our government to stop the killing of anybody because of religion or any form of identity.”
Hayab’s appeal reframes the debate — shifting focus from Trump’s rhetoric to Nigeria’s shared responsibility to end bloodshed and intolerance.
His statement comes amid widespread public debate at home and abroad over the former U.S. leader’s comments.
According to Hayab, a closer reading of Trump’s words suggests concern rather than condemnation.
“If you choose to read President Trump’s statement with an open mind, you will simply hear the voice of a visitor who cares about you and wants you to do something serious to enjoy peace and unity in your country,” he said.
The cleric warned against groups seeking to weaponise Trump’s remarks for political or sectarian gain. “We should disregard those who are manipulating and twisting what was said to instigate us against one another to divide us further,” he cautioned.
In a moment of sharp reflection, Hayab questioned the motives of those interpreting Trump’s warning as hostility toward Nigeria. “He said if nothing is done, his military will come after the terrorists, not after Nigerians — or are some of us admitting that they are part of the terrorists?” he asked.
Hayab reiterated that Nigeria’s most urgent need is not outrage but freedom and safety for all. “What we want is freedom for all to practice our faith, whether we are Christians, Muslims, or free thinkers,” he affirmed.
He urged both religious and political leaders to treat this moment as a test of maturity — an opportunity to rebuild trust between faith communities. “Trump’s comment,” Hayab implied, “should challenge us to prove that unity, not division, defines who we are as a nation.”
