CAN Declares June 14, 2026, “Black Sunday” to Honor Victims of Terror Attacks Across Nigeria

CAN Declares June 14, 2026, “Black Sunday” to Honor Victims of Terror Attacks Across Nigeria

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has announced that churches nationwide will observe June 14, 2026, as “Black Sunday” to mourn victims of terrorism, violent attacks, kidnappings, and insecurity across Nigeria. The declaration was made by CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, following a summit of church leaders in Abuja where participants reviewed the state of the nation and the growing security challenges facing communities across the country. 

According to CAN, the observance will form a three-day national mourning period scheduled to run from June 12, Nigeria’s Democracy Day, through June 14. The association said the initiative is intended to honour those who have lost their lives, show solidarity with grieving families, and draw national attention to the security crisis affecting many parts of the country. Church leaders have expressed concern over the increasing cases of killings, kidnappings, attacks on communities, and the displacement of innocent citizens. CAN noted that many Nigerians now live in fear, with schools, highways, farms, and rural communities increasingly vulnerable to criminal attacks. The association also called on the Federal Government to take stronger and more decisive measures to address insecurity. CAN further urged authorities to secure the release of kidnapped schoolchildren, teachers, and other citizens currently being held captive by criminal groups, while also calling for support and rehabilitation programs for victims and affected families. 

The announcement has already generated significant reactions online, with many Nigerians describing the move as a powerful symbol of national mourning and a reminder of the human cost of insecurity.