Concerns raised by some members of the House of Representatives over the government’s approval of an airstrip at the Living Faith Church headquarters in Ota, Ogun State, have been dismissed by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).
The lawmakers had cited fears of national security risks and the potential misuse of private airstrips, sparking widespread debate.
In a statement on Saturday, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of CAN, assured that the church strictly adhered to all regulatory and legal procedures in obtaining the license. He described the concerns as baseless, highlighting the church’s longstanding commitment to transparency and legal compliance.
The statement also pointed out that Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, confirmed the church met all safety and legal requirements before the license was issued. Despite this, the matter has been referred to the House Committees on Aviation and Legislative Compliance for further investigation.
CAN called for a fair and impartial investigation, cautioning against premature conclusions that could harm the credibility of both religious institutions and regulatory agencies. It warned that revoking the airstrip license without substantive evidence would undermine the rights of religious organizations and set a dangerous precedent.
The association also urged lawmakers to avoid religious bias, stressing that Living Faith Church has consistently contributed to peace, development, and community service. It advocated for constructive dialogue to strengthen trust between religious communities and the state while supporting measures that balance national security with the protection of religious freedoms.
Archbishop Okoh remarked:
“While security concerns surrounding the airstrip’s approval deserve acknowledgment, it is equally important to recognize the church’s compliance with all regulatory requirements, as affirmed by the Minister of Aviation.
“We must ensure the investigation is transparent and free from bias. Prematurely associating the church with potential wrongdoing risks undermining the integrity of both religious institutions and regulatory bodies.
“Revoking the license without concrete evidence would not only erode the church’s rights but also create a troubling precedent. This issue should serve as an opportunity to build trust rather than foster division.”
CAN reiterated its support for a resolution that upholds national values, protects religious rights, and promotes constructive engagement between all stakeholders.
