Kaduna, Nigeria – Christian leaders from the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have unveiled a new identity, adopting the name Forum of Northern Christians (also known as the Northern Christian Association). The rebranding, finalized during a two-day stakeholders’ meeting in Kaduna, is aimed at sharpening the group’s mandate and reinforcing its regional voice.
The gathering brought together chairmen from across the region, along with secretaries and representatives of youth and women’s wings. The meeting also served to mark the first anniversary of Rev. Joseph Hayab as Northern Chairman, under whose leadership the new structure was formalized.
The body, previously known as Northern CAN, had often been mistaken for the national Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) structure. Addressing journalists on Thursday, February 26, 2026 Rev. Hayab clarified that the new name does not signify a breakaway from the national body, but rather a return to the group’s historical roots.
He explained that the association was originally founded in Kaduna in 1964 as the Northern Christian Association, before evolving into the national CAN in 1976.
“We are CAN. We are Christians, and we remain members of CAN. But when we speak on issues affecting Christians in Northern Nigeria, we believe we should have a distinct and clear identity. There is no quarrel with the national body,” Rev. Hayab stated.
He added that the deliberate exclusion of “Nigeria” from the revived name was intended to prevent further confusion with the national structure and to demonstrate respect for the “mother body.”
Rev. Hayab also announced that the Forum of Northern Christians and the FCT has been fully registered and incorporated, noting that the restructuring is designed to strengthen coordination and engagement within the region.
• Source: theromannews.com
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