The Nonreligious Community in Nigeria has publicly criticised a recent call for nationwide prayer issued by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, arguing that symbolic religious gestures cannot replace concrete action against the country’s escalating security crises.

In a statement released on Sunday, the group highlighted the growing threat posed by armed militias, including Boko Haram, ISWAP, armed herders, and other militant factions, whose attacks have claimed lives and destroyed communities across Nigeria, affecting both religious and nonreligious citizens.

While affirming the right of religious leaders and public officials to express their beliefs, the organisation stressed that prayer alone cannot stop terrorism or banditry.

“We must emphatically state that calls for prayer have never stopped terrorism, banditry, or genocide anywhere in the world. What Nigeria urgently needs are good governance, efficient law enforcement, security reforms, and accountability—not symbolic religious gestures,” the statement said.

The group expressed concern that CAN and Governor Zulum were redirecting public focus toward prayer instead of insisting on the government’s constitutional duty to protect lives and property, warning that this could distract from measurable, real-world interventions.

They called on political and religious leaders to advocate for immediate policy and security measures, specifying five urgent actions:

1. Disarmament of armed groups.
2. Independent investigations into all attacks.
3. Prosecution of perpetrators and financiers.
4. Reform of the national security architecture.
5. Strengthened accountability at all levels of government.

“Safety and progress cannot be achieved through vigils, fasting, or prayer declarations, whether issued by religious associations or state governors. The solution lies in political will, strategic action, and enforcement of the rule of law,” the group stated.

The Nonreligious Community also reaffirmed solidarity with victims of terrorism and committed to promoting evidence-based solutions to Nigeria’s security crisis, stressing that the nation “does not need more prayers; Nigeria needs leadership, justice, and accountability.”

The statement comes after CAN announced a one-day nationwide prayer to address what it described as the “ongoing Christian Genocide” in Nigeria. The call was made following resolutions from the 4th Quarter Meeting of CAN’s National Executive Council held on November 18, 2025, in Jos, Plateau State.

A circular dated November 20, 2025, signed by General Secretary Apostle Professor Samson A. Fatokun, instructed church leaders across the country to observe the prayer on Sunday, December 7, 2025, in all Christian denominations. The circular conveyed directives from CAN President Archbishop (Dr.) Daniel C. Okoh.