Northern CAN Hails TEKAN’s Milestone 70th Assembly, Archbishop Filibus’s Election as New President

By Emmanuel Kwada

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has warmly congratulated the Fellowship of Churches of Christ in Nigeria (TEKAN) on the triumphant conclusion of its historic 70th Annual General Assembly and the peaceful election of a new president, describing the developments as a powerful demonstration of Christian unity and maturity in northern Nigeria.

The landmark assembly took place from January 6 to 11, 2026, at the NKST Headquarters in Mkar-Gboko, Benue State, drawing representatives from all 15 member churches of TEKAN, a key ecumenical body uniting millions of Christians predominantly in northern Nigeria.

Delegates gathered under the theme “Rooted in Christ for the Renewal of the Nations” (Colossians 2:6–7), reflecting on spiritual renewal amid national challenges.

A highlight of the event was the unanimous and credible election, on January 10, of His Grace, Archbishop Dr. Musa Panti Filibus of the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria (LCCN) as TEKAN’s new President.

Archbishop Filibus, a globally recognized ecumenical leader who previously served as President of the Lutheran World Federation (2017–2023), is praised for his humility, commitment to peacebuilding, interfaith dialogue, advocacy for the marginalized, and extensive experience in church leadership.

In a strongly worded press statement, Rev. Yakubu Pam, Chairman of CAN’s Northern chapter, extended heartfelt congratulations to TEKAN, emphasizing the significance of the assembly and the leadership transition.

Rev. Pam described the successful assembly as “a testimony to the unity, maturity, and enduring legacy of the TEKAN Fellowship.”

He singled out Archbishop Filibus’s election as “a clear affirmation of his proven leadership capacity, spiritual depth, and commitment to the Body of Christ,” expressing full confidence that “the Church in Nigeria will greatly benefit from his wealth of experience, wisdom, and visionary leadership.”

The Northern CAN chairman further declared the Church in the northern states’ “deep satisfaction” with the choice and pledged a “cordial and fruitful working relationship” with the new TEKAN leadership.

“Be assured of our prayers and support as you embark on this new chapter of service to God and the Church,” Rev. Pam stated.

The statement also paid tribute to the outgoing TEKAN leadership, commending their “selfless service and invaluable contributions” to the fellowship’s stability and progress.

Rev. Pam’s message underscores the strong solidarity among northern Christian bodies at a time when the region faces ongoing security concerns, economic pressures, and calls for inclusive governance.

TEKAN’s assembly itself passed resolutions condemning persistent killings, advocating electoral reforms, and urging a review of tax policies to ease burdens on citizens while promoting fairness in Nigeria’s diverse religious landscape.

With Archbishop Filibus at the helm, TEKAN is poised for continued emphasis on unity, justice, and service.

Northern CAN’s enthusiastic endorsement signals strengthened collaboration among Christian groups in the region as they navigate shared challenges and advance the gospel.

The Church community across northern Nigeria joins in prayer for divine grace, wisdom, and strength for the new TEKAN president and his team in this vital season of leadership.