Christian leaders from the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have formally adopted a new regional identity, unveiling the Forum of Northern Christians (FNC), also known as the Northern Christian Association (NCA), in a move aimed at clarifying their mandate and strengthening their collective voice.
The decision was reached at a two-day stakeholders’ meeting in Kaduna, attended by state chairmen from across the North and the FCT, alongside their secretaries and representatives of youth and women wings.
The gathering also marked the first anniversary in office of the Northern Chairman, Rev. Joseph Hayab, under whose leadership the restructuring was formally endorsed.
Explaining the rationale behind the change, Hayab said the former designation, “Northern CAN,” often generated confusion about the group’s operational relationship with the national leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria.
“The rebranding is not a departure from CAN but a clarification of our structure and mandate. We remain part of the national body, but we now have a clearly defined regional identity,” he said.
According to him, the new name eliminates ambiguity, strengthens coordination among Northern Christian leaders, and provides a more structured platform for advocacy.
“Our goal is to speak with one voice on issues affecting Christians in Northern Nigeria while promoting unity, peace, and constructive engagement,” Hayab added.
Stakeholders at the meeting reaffirmed their commitment to interfaith dialogue, peaceful coexistence, and collaboration with government authorities, particularly on matters of security, religious freedom, and social development.
The forum said further details regarding its operational framework and future programmes would be communicated in due course.