By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has distributed essential food items to widows and vulnerable members of the Christian community in preparation for the upcoming Christmas celebrations.
More than 6,000 individuals are set to benefit from this initiative, including 1,605 internally displaced persons (IDPs), each of whom has received a bag of rice, a carton of spaghetti, and a gallon of cooking oil.
This year’s distribution, which took place on Monday, exemplifies the continuation of Governor Zulum’s commitment to supporting the community since his inauguration in 2019, marking five years of consistent assistance.
Governor Zulum has established a tradition of providing Christmas support packages to the Christian community across the state each year.
This initiative also includes free transportation for Christian residents who are not native to Borno, enabling them to return to their ancestral homes for the holiday.
The aim of this gesture is to alleviate the economic burden faced by less privileged individuals and ensure that they can celebrate Christmas with joy and dignity.
During the distribution event, Governor Zulum underscored the significance of peace, unity, and mutual prosperity among all citizens of Borno State, regardless of their religious or ethnic backgrounds.
“It is my sincere hope that the long-standing relationship between Muslims and Christians in Borno State will continue to flourish.
“I pray that the Almighty Allah, in His infinite mercy, bless our communities and foster peaceful coexistence between both religions,” Zulum stated.
He further emphasized, “Islamic teachings highlight the need for harmonious coexistence with non-Muslims, an principle echoed in the Bible as well.”
The Chairman of the Borno State Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Most Rev. John Bogna Bakeni, who welcomed the Governor, expressed deep appreciation for his ongoing empathy and support.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Your Excellency. This assistance means a great deal to the Christian community in Borno State.
You continue to exemplify values of inclusivity and have provided hope to the Christian community to celebrate Christmas with joy,” stated the CAN Chairman.
