Delegates of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) arrived in Plateau State on Monday ahead of the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting scheduled to commence on Tuesday, November 18, 2025.
The delegation was received at the Yakubu Gowon Airport, Jos, by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Policy and Governance, Hon. Istifanus Mwansat, representing the Secretary to the State Government on behalf of Governor Caleb Mutfwang.
Also present to welcome the team were the Plateau State CAN Chairman, Rev. Dr. Dunka Gomwalk, the Special Adviser on Religious Affairs, Rev. Dr. Stephen Dang Gana, and other government officials.
Speaking during the reception, the Vice President of CAN, Rev. Dr. Stephen Baba Panya, explained that Plateau State was chosen based on its deep Christian heritage and long-standing hospitality.
“It is a pleasure and privilege for us to be here. We have come for our National Executive CAN meeting starting tomorrow. Our President, His Eminence Archbishop Daniel O’Call, arrived ahead of us and will chair the meeting,” he said.
He emphasized that the delegation was in the state not only for official deliberations but also for spiritual intercession on behalf of Plateau.
“We are here to pray for Plateau—to plead with God for the peace, prosperity and progress of this state. Plateau has long been a strong Christian stronghold and a custodian of Christian heritage. Jos remains a welcoming city, and we believe our coming will encourage the people and showcase the hospitality the state is known for.”
Earlier, the delegation visited the Ten Commandments Prayer Ground, where government officials highlighted ongoing expansions to accommodate worshippers for major state Christian events.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Policy and Governance, Yiljap Abraham, noted that seating capacity has now grown to nearly 8,000 through additional wings constructed to enhance the worship experience.
“There is no politics here—only Christ and worship. All tribes and political affiliations dissolve in worship. The governor’s vision is for Christians to gather as one body to celebrate Christ together,” Abraham said.
CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Oko, also expressed gratitude to the state government and described Plateau as the “Home of Hospitality.”
“We came to attend the fourth quarterly meeting of the CAN Executive Council. Sometimes we take our meetings outside Abuja to stay connected to Christians at the grassroots,” he said.
He added that the national body was in the state to offer prayers and solidarity during a crucial time for Plateau.
Plateau CAN Chairman, Rev. Dr. Dunka Gomwalk, welcomed the delegation, describing the visit as divine and timely for the peace and stability of the state.
The team was also received by the Plateau State Advisory Council on Inter-Religious Harmony, where Christian and Muslim leaders jointly reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful coexistence.
