As Nigeria edges closer to the 2027 general elections, a coalition of Christian leaders from the 19 northern states has launched a major political awareness campaign aimed at increasing Christian participation in governance.
Under the banner of the Christian Northern Nigeria Political Forum (CNNPF), the leaders gathered on Sunday in Akwanga Local Government Area of Nasarawa State for the state’s maiden political conference themed: “Christian Participation in Politics: A Panacea for the Empowerment of Women and Youth in Northern Nigeria.”
Christians Must Go Beyond Voting — CNNPF
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the CNNPF National President, Barau Mohammed, the group’s Executive Secretary, Iliya Ishaya, emphasized the urgent need for Christians in the North to rise beyond casting votes and begin vying for elective positions.
“We are calling on Northern Christians to take an active interest in politics. The era of sitting on the sidelines is over. We must be part of the decision-making process,” he declared.
He clarified that this call is not about religious division but about national development, asserting that active participation in politics by all groups is vital for national progress.
Breaking Misconceptions About Politics
CNNPF also expressed concern over the persistent political apathy among Northern Christians, noting that many still view politics as a dirty game, which discourages participation. Ishaya commended Promise Ezekiel, the Nasarawa State Coordinator, and the local CNNPF executives for their grassroots political sensitization efforts.
“We are here to demystify politics and encourage more Christians to take part in choosing the leaders who shape their future,” he added.
Call to Youth and Women: Step Up Now
Renowned Nasarawa North businessman, Tony Bala-Shammah, took the stage to urge youths and women within the Christian community to engage deeply in the democratic process. According to him, voting based on competence and integrity—not religion or tribe—is the key to progress.
“This conference is coming at a perfect time. To achieve good governance, every citizen must play their part in selecting the right leaders,” Bala-Shammah noted.
Looking Ahead to 2027
In his remarks, Promise Ezekiel applauded the presence of delegates from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Taraba, Katsina, and other Northern states. He emphasized that CNNPF is a non-profit, non-governmental, and non-denominational organization with the core mission of supporting credible leaders who can deliver real development.
“Our goal is simple—to empower Christians across the North to take ownership of their political destiny. The 2027 elections present an opportunity we must not miss,” Ezekiel concluded.
As the political momentum begins to build nationwide, CNNPF’s campaign signals a new wave of civic awakening, particularly among marginalized groups seeking a voice in Nigeria’s future leadership.
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