The Christian Association of Nigeria has urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts to secure the release of Leah Sharibu, who was kidnapped seven years ago, on February 19, 2018. Leah was among 110 schoolgirls abducted by Boko Haram terrorists from the Government Girls Science and Technical School, Dapchi, Yobe State. While others were later released, she was held back for refusing to renounce her Christian faith. In a statement on Thursday, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, described her prolonged captivity as a painful reminder of Nigeria’s insecurity and called on the international community to lend their voices and resources to the cause. He said, “Today, as we mark over seven years since the abduction of Leah Sharibu by Boko Haram insurgents on February 19, 2018, the Christian Association of Nigeria stands in solidarity with her family and all who continue to bear the pain of her absence. Leah’s courage and steadfast faith in the face of unimaginable adversity remain a beacon of hope and inspiration to us all. “Her prolonged captivity is a painful reminder of the insecurity plaguing our nation and the urgent need to protect the fundamental right to freedom of religion. We call on the Federal Government to redouble its efforts to secure Leah’s release and that of others still held captive. No sacrifice is too great to bring our daughter home. We also appeal to the international community to lend their voices and resources to this cause.” CAN also urged Nigerians, especially Christians, to unite in prayer and action for Leah and for peace in the country, stressing the need for all political and security stakeholders to act decisively. “CAN urges all Nigerians, especially the Christian faithful, to unite in prayer and action for Leah and for peace in our land. Let us transcend denominational lines and work as one body to advocate for justice. We remain hopeful that Leah will soon return to her loved ones, and we assure her family of our unrelenting support.” “To the government, security agencies, and all stakeholders, we charge you to act decisively to end this scourge of violence and restore safety to our nation. CAN will continue to speak for the voiceless and champion the cause of peace and unity in Nigeria.” Meanwhile, the Lagos State chapter of CAN, through its Chairman, Stephen Adegbite, has emphasised the need for continuous prayers for Nigeria’s peace and progress. Speaking ahead of an interdenominational prayer programme organised by Lagos CAN, Adegbite stressed that while citizens must demand good governance, they should also seek divine intervention. “The situation in the country makes it imperative for Christians to gather and pray. While there have been noticeable improvements in some areas due to the bold policy initiatives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration at the federal level and Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s leadership at the state level, it is evident that critical sectors of the economy still require urgent attention to meet the aspirations of Nigerians, including Lagosians.” The prayer event, themed “Total Restoration,” is scheduled for Saturday at the LAWNA Territorial Headquarters of The Apostolic Church in Lagos. A statement by Adegbite’s media aide, Oladapo Daramola, indicated that the event will feature prayer sessions for the nation’s welfare and governance. The Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Dr. Oliver Aba, will serve as the guest preacher, while religious leaders from various CAN blocs are expected to attend. Adegbite further noted: “The level of hunger in the country can be reduced significantly. While we continue to work with the government on realistic measures to improve the situation physically, we also recognize the need to intercede and seek God’s guidance for lasting solutions. It is in God that we place our trust.” “This is why Lagos State CAN organise this event annually, trusting that God will hear our prayers and restore peace to every corner of the nation. We must not lose faith in God. With Him, all things are possible.” The event is expected to attract Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his cabinet members, Lagos State House of Assembly members, and representatives of the judiciary.