In a significant gesture of seasonal goodwill and inclusive governance, the Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has personally overseen the distribution of essential food items to more than 6,000 members of the Christian community ahead of Christmas celebrations.
Food Support for Widows and Displaced Persons
The exercise, which took place on Monday, specifically targeted vulnerable groups including widows and internally displaced persons (IDPs). A total of 1,605 IDPs were among the beneficiaries, each receiving a bag of rice, one carton of spaghetti, and a gallon of cooking oil.
Governor Zulum explained that the annual initiative is designed to alleviate economic hardship and ensure that Christian residents can celebrate the festive period with dignity and joy. “This support is part of our consistent commitment to stand with our Christian brethren, especially the widows and the most vulnerable, so that they can celebrate Christmas in peace and happiness,” the governor stated.
Free Transport and Call for Harmony
Going beyond food aid, Governor Zulum also approved free transportation for Christian residents of Borno State who are not indigenes. This measure is intended to ease the financial burden on families wishing to travel to their ancestral homes for the holidays and to strengthen inter-community bonds.
While supervising the distribution, the governor seized the moment to reiterate a powerful message of unity. He emphasized the importance of peace and shared prosperity for all citizens, irrespective of religious or ethnic background.
“It is my sincere hope that the long-standing relationship between Muslims and Christians in Borno State will continue to reign,” Zulum said. He added that both Islam and Christianity teach mutual respect and peaceful coexistence, urging continued harmony within the state.
Christian Leaders Applaud Inclusive Leadership
The gesture was warmly received by Christian leaders in the state. The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Borno State, Most Rev. John Bogna Bakeni, expressed profound gratitude to the governor.
“You have once again demonstrated values of inclusion and compassion, giving the Christian community hope and reason to celebrate Christmas,” Bakeni remarked. He noted that the governor’s continued support reflects an inclusive approach to leadership that fosters hope.
This distribution forms a key part of Governor Zulum’s broader social welfare programmes, which aim to support vulnerable populations and promote lasting harmony across Borno State.
