The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has dismissed concerns raised by some members of the House of Representatives over the recent government approval of an airstrip at the Living Faith Church headquarters in Ota, Ogun State.

Lawmakers had expressed fears about national security and the potential misuse of private airstrips, sparking debates on the matter.In a statement issued to journalists on Saturday, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of CAN, clarified that the church adhered to all regulatory and legal requirements in securing the license.

He emphasized that such fears are baseless, as the church has consistently demonstrated transparency and commitment to legality in all its operations.

The statement highlighted that the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, confirmed that all necessary safety and legal standards were met before the license was granted.

Despite this, lawmakers have referred the matter to the House Committees on Aviation and Legislative Compliance for investigation.

CAN called for the investigation to be impartial and transparent, warning against premature conclusions that could harm the integrity of religious institutions and regulatory agencies.

The association also expressed concern that revoking the airstrip license without substantial evidence would set a dangerous precedent, undermining the rights of religious organizations.

It urged lawmakers to ensure their actions are not influenced by religious biases, stressing that Living Faith Church has been a pillar of peace, development, and community service.CAN appealed for constructive dialogue between stakeholders to strengthen trust between religious communities and the state.The group affirmed its support for measures that enhance national security while safeguarding the rights and freedoms of religious institutions.

The apex Christian body called for wisdom, patience, and mutual respect to resolve the issue in a way that upholds national values and ensures security and prosperity.

Okoh said, “The recent government decision to grant a licence for the construction of an airstrip at the Living Faith Church headquarters in Ota, Ogun State, has drawn significant attention and concern from some members of the House of Representatives. These concerns primarily revolve around national security and the potential misuse of private airstrips.

“It is crucial to acknowledge the legitimate security concerns expressed; however, it is equally important to recognise the church’s adherence to all regulatory procedures in securing this licence. The Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, has affirmed that the church met all necessary safety and legal requirements.

The group affirmed its support for measures that enhance national security while safeguarding the rights and freedoms of religious institutions.

The apex Christian body called for wisdom, patience, and mutual respect to resolve the issue in a way that upholds national values and ensures security and prosperity.

Okoh said, “The recent government decision to grant a licence for the construction of an airstrip at the Living Faith Church headquarters in Ota, Ogun State, has drawn significant attention and concern from some members of the House of Representatives. These concerns primarily revolve around national security and the potential misuse of private airstrips.

“It is crucial to acknowledge the legitimate security concerns expressed; however, it is equally important to recognise the church’s adherence to all regulatory procedures in securing this licence. The Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, has affirmed that the church met all necessary safety and legal requirements.“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.

“We urge the lawmakers to consider the broader implications of their actions and rhetoric, ensuring that religious undertones do not cloud objective judgement. The church has always been a stronghold for peace, development, and community service.

“Revoking the licence 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.

“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.

“We believe that with wisdom, patience, and mutual respect, we can navigate this issue to a resolution that honours our collective values and ensures the safety and prosperity of our beloved nation.”