The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has declared Sunday, June 14, 2026, as a national day of mourning in response to the wave of terrorist attacks, kidnappings, and violent incidents affecting communities across the country.
The announcement was made at the conclusion of the National Church Denominational Leadership Summit 2026, where church leaders expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation and the continued loss of lives.
CAN President, Daniel Okoh, said the designated “Black Sunday” would serve as a solemn occasion for Christians nationwide to remember victims of insecurity and stand in solidarity with affected families and communities.
As part of the observance, the association also announced a three-day national prayer programme scheduled to run from June 12 to June 14.
While emphasizing the importance of prayer, Okoh stressed that spiritual efforts alone would not be sufficient to address the country’s security challenges.
He called on authorities to take decisive and practical measures to curb terrorism, banditry, kidnappings, and other forms of violent crime.
The CAN leader urged the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on insecurity, arguing that the scale of the crisis requires urgent and extraordinary intervention.
He also renewed calls for the establishment of state police and the decentralisation of Nigeria’s security architecture, saying such reforms could enable faster and more effective responses to threats at the local level.
In addition, CAN demanded the unconditional release of all kidnapped victims currently being held by criminal groups across the country.
The association further called for justice to be served in cases involving acts of terrorism, abductions, and violent attacks.
The declaration comes amid growing concerns from religious leaders, civil society groups, and citizens over persistent security challenges in several parts of Nigeria, including attacks on communities, mass abductions, and killings linked to armed groups.
More details are expected to emerge as preparations for the nationwide observance and prayer programme continue.
