LAGOS, Nigeria — Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), hailed the just-concluded Christmas season as remarkably peaceful, a welcome change from recent years marked by violence against Christians and their places of worship.
Okoh shared his thoughts after a meeting on Friday with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu at their residence in Ikoyi. He noted that for the first time in many years, there were no midnight phone calls reporting attacks on churches during the holiday.
“This year’s Christmas stands out as a significant moment for us. We were able to celebrate without the anxiety of violence striking at any moment,” Okoh said. He praised President Tinubu for bolstering security measures, which he believes contributed to the tranquility observed this festive season.
The archbishop acknowledged the ongoing challenges but remained optimistic about the government’s commitment to improving security. “We have seen positive strides, and while more work lies ahead, there is a sense of hope that will carry us into the next year,” he added.
In the past, Christmas in Nigeria has been marred by violence, with brutal attacks taking place in various regions. For instance, on December 25, 2022, gunmen targeted Christian communities in southern Kaduna, resulting in multiple casualties and heightening fears around the holiday season. Similarly, in 2024, violent incidents in Kwande County, Benue State, led to the deaths of at least 11 individuals during church services.
Despite the recent calm, tensions remain high. On Christmas Day 2025, U.S. airstrikes targeted ISIS-affiliated militant camps in Sokoto, described by U.S. officials as necessary actions against those responsible for the killings of Christians. The Nigerian government facilitated these strikes by providing vital intelligence.
“Collaboration is crucial in our fight against terrorism,” said Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar. He emphasized the nation’s commitment to working alongside partners dedicated to combating all forms of extremism, regardless of the victims’ religion.
As the Christmas season fades, the hope remains that the security improvements will lead to more peaceful celebrations in the years to come, allowing communities to gather and rejoice without fear.