Northern Christian Leaders Rebrand Regional Body, Restore Historic Identity

Christian leaders from the 19 states in Northern Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory have officially moved to change their organisation’s name, returning to its original identity from 1964 in a bid to sharpen its focus on regional concerns.

At a two‑day meeting in Kaduna, attended by chairmen, secretaries, and representatives of youth and women wings from across the region, the group unveiled the Forum of Northern Christians, also referred to as the Northern Christian Association.

The body had previously been known as “Northern CAN,” a title church leaders said often blurred its connection with the national Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). Responding to questions, the regional chairman, Rev. Joseph Hayab, stressed that the name change is not a separation from the national organisation but a return to its historical roots and a clearer expression of its mission.

Founded in 1964 in Kaduna under the original Northern Christian Association name, the organisation later evolved into the national CAN structure in 1976. Leaders at the meeting clarified that dropping “Nigeria” from the revived name was meant to avoid confusion while underscoring respect for the national body.

The newly‑registered Forum says it intends to focus on issues affecting Christians in the northern region, including religious freedom, access to education, and fair opportunities for Christian children.