LAGOS, Nigeria — The recent Christmas season in Nigeria has been hailed as one of the most peaceful in years, according to Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). This assessment came following a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, where Okoh praised the government’s efforts to bolster national security.
In comments made to reporters, Okoh noted a significant lack of violence during this year’s celebrations. He remarked, “For the first time in many years, we did not receive distressing calls in the night about church attacks.” This level of tranquility is a welcome change from past years, which have been marked by violence and fear during the holiday season.
Okoh attributed this year’s relative calm to recent government initiatives aimed at improving security throughout Nigeria. “We are witnessing renewed commitment to strengthen our security framework, allowing Nigerians to celebrate their faith freely,” he said. While acknowledging that challenges remain, he expressed hope for continued progress, wishing for visible improvements in the upcoming year.
Nigeria has faced a troubling history of targeted attacks against Christians, particularly during festive periods. For instance, in December 2022, gunmen carried out assaults on Christian communities in Southern Kaduna, resulting in multiple casualties and a climate of fear surrounding the holiday observance. In a separate incident on December 25, 2024, militants targeted worshippers in Kwande County, Benue State, leaving at least 11 people dead as violence erupted during church services.
Despite the relative peace experienced this Christmas, security challenges linger. U.S. military operations, including airstrikes on ISIS-linked militant camps in Sokoto, coincided with the holiday. U.S. government officials noted that these actions were necessary to combat groups responsible for violent attacks on Christian and other communities in Nigeria.
The Nigerian government provided assistance and intelligence to facilitate the U.S. strikes. Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar stated, “Nigeria remains steadfast in collaborating with all partners dedicated to combatting terrorism, regardless of the victims’ beliefs.” This multi-faceted approach underscores the complexities of security in a nation grappling with a variety of threats.
As many reflect on the recent holiday season, the hope remains that ongoing efforts can foster an environment where all citizens feel safe to practice their faith without fear of violence or intimidation. The commitment to enhancing security will be closely watched in the months ahead, as the nation seeks to build on this moment of peace.