By Amina Samuel, Kaduna
The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) for the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, has urged pastors and religious leaders across the country to embrace dialogue as the most effective means of resolving the nation’s challenges and overcoming evil.
Rev. Hayab made the call during an interview with Elanza News at the 2026 World Communication Day celebration, held on Saturday, 16th May, at the Social Media Centre, Independent Way, Kaduna. The event, organised by the Kaduna Archdiocesan Communication Commission, featured a lecture and award presentation under the theme: Preserving Human Voices and Faces.
Responding to a question on the message of dialogue, Rev. Hayab said dialogue originates from God. “God teaches us the ministry of reconstruction; through dialogue we can truly communicate,” he stated.
He appealed to Christian leaders—especially those who reject or discourage dialogue—to reconsider their stance. “When dialogue is discouraged, setbacks follow. But dialogue brings peace and progress,” he said.
Acknowledging that some religious leaders avoid dialogue, Rev. Hayab emphasised that the Bible instructs believers to come together and reason with one another. “God created human beings to relate and guide one another, but that is not happening. We must not allow technology to take away our relationships and love. Even within the home, when we relate, there is love. Our faces and our concerns are paramount.”
Speaking on this year’s theme and the lecture topic, Artificial Intelligence: The Pearl of the Technological Age and Its Risks of Replacing Human Ingenuity and Relationships, he urged parents to communicate directly with their children.
“We need parents to speak with their children. We must relate with one another at home, and encourage our children to listen, obey the law, and let their faces and voices be heard through direct parental relationship,” he said.
He further called on parents to engage with young teenagers, allowing them to express themselves freely. “Through communication, let them voice whatever is in them, knowing how intelligent they might be,” he appealed.
Rev. Hayab, who was also a recipient of an award at the event, dedicated the honour to all supporters of dialogue. He urged other religious leaders—including pastors who do not believe in dialogue—to come together for the good of the country and the state.
“With dialogue, the nation and the state will delay evils. In dialogue, we encourage one another in unity and peace,” he concluded.
