The Christian Association of Nigeria has urged the Federal Government to reduce food, transport and energy costs, strengthen social protection and improve security, saying the benefits of economic reforms must translate into better living conditions for citizens.

CAN made the call in a statement signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, on Thursday to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.

The association said the country needed to move beyond economic reform statistics to a phase where prosperity was reflected in the daily lives of Nigerians.

“We welcome the shift from an era of economic reforms to an era of prosperity. But the true test of progress is not in statistics alone. It is whether families can afford food, young people can find decent work, communities can live in safety, and every child has a fair opportunity to build a future,” the statement read.

CAN urged the government to make reducing the cost of food, transportation and energy a measurable priority, noting that Nigerians who had endured years of economic hardship deserved tangible relief.

“Nigerians who have endured years of economic pressure deserve to begin seeing meaningful relief in their daily lives,” the association said.

It also called for stronger social protection measures for vulnerable households, including improved access to education, healthcare and affordable credit.

According to CAN, such interventions must be transparently administered and protected from diversion to ensure that the intended beneficiaries receive the support.

“Prosperity that does not reach the ordinary Nigerian home remains incomplete,” the association stated.

On security, the Christian body said economic growth would remain insufficient if citizens could not go about their daily activities without fear.

It urged the government to sustain efforts to protect lives, secure communities and restore public confidence across the country.

“Security must receive equal attention. There can be no meaningful prosperity where citizens cannot farm, trade, travel or sleep peacefully because of fear,” CAN said.

The association stressed that farmers, traders and other citizens needed a safe environment to pursue their livelihoods, adding that security was essential to achieving meaningful prosperity.

As political activities gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, CAN cautioned politicians against presenting themselves as the ultimate solution to the country’s problems or using religion to advance partisan interests.

“As the 2027 political season approaches, CAN again reminds all political actors that no politician is the Messiah. Christians are free to support or criticise any candidate, but the name of Jesus Christ must not be dragged into partisan rivalry or used as a political weapon,” the statement read.

The association reaffirmed its commitment to remaining non-partisan while speaking out on issues affecting citizens and holding public office holders accountable to the principles of justice, accountability and compassion.

“CAN remains committed to its role as a non-partisan moral voice; commending what is right, speaking when citizens are hurting and holding leaders to the values of justice, accountability and compassion,” Okoh said.

The association proceeded to say a prayer for Nigeria in its anniversary message, stating that “God bless Nigeria.”