The Youth Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN) has dismissed claims that the recent donation of seven hybrid Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu was politically motivated or linked to the 2027 general elections.
The clarification was made by the National Chairman of YOWICAN, Ambassador Belusochukwu Michael Enwere, during the group’s National Convention at the National Christian Centre, Abuja.
Ambassador Enwere stated that the gesture from the First Lady was purely driven by her passion for evangelism, youth empowerment, and national development. According to him, “It is very important to note that these buses were not donated with any political intent or in connection with elections. That was never the donor’s intention. Her Excellency made it clear that the purpose is to spread the gospel and make our work easier in our various zones, states, and communities.”
He explained that the buses, one for the national secretariat and six for zonal offices, will serve to boost mobility and facilitate Christian youth activities across the country. “These buses are in good hands within the zonal structures. Each zone will ensure proper use and maintenance. The CNG buses are cost-effective and easy to use. If you don’t want to use petrol, you can use CNG, which is very affordable. You can fill up for not more than N3,000 or N4,000 and it will last up to seven hours,” Enwere said.
While commending the First Lady’s benevolence, the YOWICAN leader also expressed concern over the continued attacks on Christians in some parts of Northern Nigeria. He appealed to government authorities to take urgent action to safeguard lives and ensure justice for victims. “The continued killings of Christians, particularly in Northern Nigeria, is a sombre reality that demands our collective attention. We call on the government to intensify efforts to secure lives and bring perpetrators to justice,” he added.
The event was attended by Christian leaders, youth delegates, and representatives from the six geopolitical zones. The President of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, who was represented by the General Secretary, Apostle Samson Fatokun, urged the youths to embrace holiness and hard work. “Without holiness, we cannot go anywhere. Holiness without hard work is daunting, and hard work without holiness is laziness,” he said.
Rev. Ini Ukpuho, National Chaplain of the National Ecumenical Centre, also encouraged the youths to be examples in faith and conduct. Quoting from 1 Timothy 4:12, he reminded them not to let anyone despise their youth but to lead with character and integrity. The convention ended with thanksgiving prayers and the official handover of the seven hybrid CNG buses to the national and zonal chapters of YOWICAN.
