Since Rev. (Dr.) Joseph John Hayab became the Chairman of the Northern Christian Association (NCA), he has used the office to continue building bridges of tolerance, understanding and respect across religious divides, just as he had done in previous offices he has held.
In February 2026, under Hayab, Northern CAN changed its name to its original 1964 name, which is Northern Christian Association. He emphasised that NCA was not breaking away from CAN, but stressed that Northern Christians needed a platform to speak on issues affecting Christians in the North “We should have a distinct and clear identity”, Hayab maintained. To this end, he has not wavered in his commitment to lead Christians and fight for their cause in the 19 states and FCT.
Hayab, who is a Baptist Pastor, in an Interview with Citypeople said his priority as Chairman (NCA) is to continue to focus on religious freedom. “Religion should not be used to cause pain or destruction, but should help us to appreciate and tolerate each other”. My office will continue to promote togetherness, peace and tolerance. “I have also made it a point of duty to organise regular peace prayers”. We must seek the face of God in these trying times of insecurity. “I always wonder why kidnapping and killing have gone unabated he questioned.
Continuing, he said, as NCA Chairman, I cannot be silent in the face of insecurities in the North or the country in general. “I will also continue to seek protection for displaced communities, including providing admission opportunities for Christian Children in the North”.
Angered by the recent viral video allegedly showing youths demanding AK-47s to attack Christians in Enugu and Jos, he called on the DSS and Police to investigate the said video “It should be fully investigated and not dismissed”.
Hayab, who is also the Country Director of Global Peace Foundation (GPF) lamented that Politics of Religion has affected our unity as a country. “Politicians use religion to divide us and stop us from challenging their corrupt practices, “We must unite our people and join forces to fight corruption in our nation. “We must have a better understanding and relate well with Muslims, while making sure the rights of Christians are protected”. He told Citypeople.
Hayab, who also served as Secretary–General of CAN, Kaduna State (2003-2010) said Peace is about relationship and respect for one another; we must build bridges.
“There have been instances of gross misunderstanding on one side or the other that may lead to violence; through my Inter-religious network, I have been working to promote greater understanding, and periodically holding joint lectures with Islamic clerics and inviting them to Christian activities, showcasing how faith promotes peace”.
Making his views known on why the country is still crawling after 66 years of Independence, he said we must put our differences aside and close ranks and start seeing ourselves as Nigerians, despite our weak institutions, voter apathy, insecurity and divisions between us.
On corruption amongst clerics, after the EFCC called some clerics out, Rev. Hayab agreed with the Anti–Corruption agency saying, “Both Christians and Muslims are hiding under religion to cheat. “We must find lasting solutions to corruption bedevilling our country”.
Hayab, who, for over 20 years, has combined ministry with interfaith dialogue, conflict prevention and advocacy for religious freedom, recently celebrated his 57th birthday. In congratulating him, NCA described Hayab as a bridge builder whose leadership has continued to promote dialogue, justice and peaceful coexistence across Nigeria and beyond.
According to its General Secretary, Bishop Mohammed Naga, he described Hayab as a National voice and a servant of God. The association said his commitment to constructive engagement and principled leadership has reinforced the importance of promoting peace, protecting religious and social backgrounds.
NCA also commended his concern for communities affected by violence, displacement and insecurity, stressing the importance of solidarity, compassion, empowerment to the displaced and practical support for those facing hardship. “His leadership reflects the responsibility of the Church to speak for the vulnerable people, defend human dignity and encourage peaceful solutions to conflicts”.
They said, Hayab has demonstrated courage, patience, dialogue and a willingness to engage constructively with stakeholders, even when dealing with difficult and sensitive issues.
Also wishing him a happy birthday, CAN North-East Zone Apostle Sunday Udoh Rufus described Hayab’s leadership, faith and selfless service as a source of inspiration to Christians, and praised his commitment to Christian advocacy, peaceful co-existence, and justice and religious freedom, while Rev. Caleb Bawa Ma’aji, CAN Kaduna State, described Hayab as a mentor to emerging leaders and an advocate for peace and justice whose influence extends beyond official positions.
While the Publisher of TG News, Tom Garba, described Hayab as one of the most respected Christian elders in Northern Nigeria “He is down to earth, humble yet a courageous man who does not fear speaking truth to power His life is a clear definition of service to God and humanity and a quiet philanthropist, Tom concluded.
Asabe Ndoma
