The Christian Association of Nigeria has called on the House Committee on Aviation and Legislative Compliance to ensure a fair and transparent probe into the approval of an airstrip license granted to the Living Faith Church Headquarters, known as Canaanland, in Ota, Ogun State.
The license, announced in October by the Minister for Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, allows the church to construct an airstrip.
Keyamo noted that the facility would be overseen by the Federal Government through the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency.
This announcement came amid concerns raised by some members of the House of Representatives, who pushed for the revocation of airstrip licenses issued to certain individuals and private entities.
In a statement on Saturday, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, acknowledged the lawmakers’ concerns regarding potential security risks and misuse of airstrips.
However, he emphasized that Living Faith Church followed all legal procedures in obtaining the license.
Okoh cautioned against making unsubstantiated claims linking the church to illegal activities, stressing its commitment to legality and transparency.
He also called for constructive engagement, viewing this situation as an opportunity to build trust between religious institutions and the state.
“As the House Committees on Aviation and Legislative Compliance undertake their investigation, it is imperative that this process remains transparent and impartial. To prematurely associate the church with potential illegal activities, without substantive evidence, risks undermining the integrity of both religious institutions and regulatory bodies. The church stands firm on its commitment to legality and transparency,” Okoh stated.
He urged lawmakers to avoid allowing religious biases to influence their judgment and to consider the broader implications of their actions.
“It is essential to recognise that revoking the license without substantial evidence could unjustly undermine the rights of religious organisations and set a troubling precedent for future cases. Demonising its efforts without just cause does a disservice not only to the church but to the principles of justice and fairness that bind our nation,” he added.
Okoh further highlighted Canaanland’s longstanding contributions to peace, development, and community service.
He expressed CAN’s readiness to collaborate on initiatives that balance national security concerns with the rights and freedoms of religious institutions.
“As we await the outcome of the investigation, we call on all stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue and cooperation. Let this be an opportunity to strengthen, rather than fracture, the trust between religious communities and the state. The Christian Association of Nigeria stands ready to support measures that enhance national security while upholding the rights and freedoms of religious institutions,” the statement concluded.
