THE Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) for the 19 Northern States and the FCT, Rev Joseph Hayab has called for compulsory psychological testing for Nigerians seeking elective political offices.
Rev Hayab, who also chairs the National Patrons Forum of the Royal Ambassadors of Nigeria (RAN), made the call yesterday at the Royal Ambassadors Men’s Missionary Union summit in Sabon Tasha, Kaduna.
Delivering a keynote address titled “Overcoming Evil Vices: A Guide for the Young Child” on the theme “Higher Ground”, Hayab argued that many leadership failures in Nigeria stem from emotional and mental instability among officeholders.
“When you hear the way some of our leaders speak, you begin to question their mental fitness. Governance is too sensitive to entrust to individuals who lack empathy, emotional control, or sound judgment.
“Just as we recommend psychological evaluations before marriage, we should apply the same principle to public service, where the decisions of one person can affect millions,” he said.
The cleric warned that untreated mental health issues not only destroy families but can threaten the stability of entire nations when left unchecked in leadership.
Turning to the youth, Hayab cautioned against drug abuse, cybercrime, violence, and other destructive behaviours, describing them as threats to personal and national development.
“Drugs deceive and destroy,” he said, adding, “‘Yahoo’ is not a career path. If you want to rise to higher ground, you must embrace discipline, hard work, and faith in God.”
On gender matters, he urged girls to prioritise education over early marriage and advised boys to respect and protect the dignity of women.
“Education empowers the mind and prepares you to solve real problems. It is not just about securing a job but about building a purposeful life,” he noted.Hayab also encouraged young people to seek mentors of integrity and surround themselves with positive influences that foster growth and godly values.
Earlier, the Director of the Royal Ambassadors in Sabon Tasha, Mr Pleni Thomas Magaji praised Hayab’s message as timely and courageous, explaining that the annual summit was designed to nurture young Christians with Biblical principles and sound leadership ethics for national transformation.
