The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has urged the House Committee on Aviation and Legislative Compliance to conduct a fair and transparent investigation into the approval of an airstrip license for the Living Faith Church Headquarters, also known as Canaanland, in Ota, Ogun State.
In October, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced that the church had been granted a license to build an airstrip, which would be managed by the Federal Government through the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency.
This move followed concerns raised by members of the House of Representatives who called for the revocation of licenses issued to certain individuals and private organizations.
In a statement on Saturday, CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh acknowledged the lawmakers’ concerns regarding security and the potential misuse of airstrips.
However, he emphasized that the church had fully complied with all legal requirements to obtain the license.
Okoh urged lawmakers to avoid prematurely associating the church with illegal activities without clear evidence.
He reaffirmed that the church remained committed to transparency and legality, calling for constructive dialogue on the matter.
CAN President also stressed that the situation provided an opportunity to strengthen the relationship between religious organizations and the state, and that CAN was ready to support efforts to enhance national security while safeguarding the rights and freedoms of religious institutions.
He stated, “As the House Committees on Aviation and Legislative Compliance conduct their investigation, it is crucial that the process remains transparent and impartial. Prematurely associating the church with illegal activities without evidence could damage the integrity of both religious institutions and regulatory bodies. The church is committed to legality and transparency.”
Okoh further added that Canaanland had always been a place of peace, development, and community service.
He warned that revoking the airstrip license without valid proof could unjustly infringe on the rights of religious organizations and set a dangerous precedent.
“We urge all stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue. Let this be an opportunity to strengthen trust between religious communities and the state. The Christian Association of Nigeria is committed to supporting efforts to enhance national security while upholding the rights of religious institutions.” he concluded.
