The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called on Christian denominations across Nigeria to fiercely guard and sustain their unity, even as the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) implored the Federal Government to prioritize citizen protection, uphold the Constitution, and remain transparent in managing public resources.

The dual appeal was made on Saturday during CAN’s milestone 50th anniversary celebration held at the National Christian Centre in Abuja. The golden jubilee event also served as a platform to honour several prominent national figures, including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, who received the prestigious Christian Icon Award.

Speaking as the special guest of honour, Senator Tinubu congratulated CAN on five decades of steadfast service to God and humanity. She noted that the anniversary theme, "Walking Together in Faith," perfectly mirrors the prayer of Jesus Christ for unity among believers.

Quoting John 17:21–22 and Ephesians 4:4–6, the First Lady stressed that scriptural foundations underscore the necessity of a single body, Spirit, and faith.

“I pray that, just as Christ prayed for the saints, all the Christian blocs and denominations will continue to remain united in Jesus’ name,” she said, wishing the association more decades of impactful service to the nation.

In his anniversary address, CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh declared that the association’s next 50 years must usher in a more informed, courageous, and evidence-based approach to national discourse. He emphasized that while the Church must hold political leaders accountable, its interventions must never degenerate into partisan attacks.

“The message of the Church to those in governance must be clear," Archbishop Okoh stated. "Govern well, serve faithfully, protect the people, respect the Constitution, account for public resources, listen to citizens, protect the vulnerable, strengthen institutions, and make Nigeria great.”

Okoh reviewed CAN`s five-decade legacy of defending religious freedom, justice, and good governance, but insisted that the golden jubilee should represent a renewed national mission rather than just a celebration of past milestones.

He urged religious leaders to engage in "critical collaboration" with the state—cooperating where the common good is pursued, but independently challenging authorities whenever justice demands it. He specifically championed the plight of vulnerable Nigerians, including internally displaced persons (IDPs), out-of-school children, unemployed youth, and rural farmers displaced by insecurity.

Receiving his Christian Icon Award, SGF Senator George Akume described the recognition as a humbling validation of integrity and service. He remarked that public office must always be treated as an avenue for sacrifice rather than a privilege for personal enjoyment.

“As Secretary to the Government of the Federation, I remain profoundly conscious of the enormous responsibility entrusted to me by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and of the duty to contribute to the success of the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Akume said, dedicating his award to selfless, unsung Nigerians and the country`s youth.

The historic event also witnessed the presentation of Pillar of Faith Awards to former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon (retd.), former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, and former Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Other notable recipients of the Christian Icon Award included Governors Monday Okpebholo (Edo), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), and Seyi Makinde (Oyo).

The anniversary drew a high-profile audience of political and religious heavyweights, including the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.); Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo; former SGF Boss Mustapha; and former Information Minister Prof. Jerry Gana.

Founded in August 1976, CAN continues to serve as the unified umbrella body for the Nigerian Christian community.