Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has extended warm felicitations to the Christian community in the state and beyond on the occasion of Easter.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, Governor Zulum described Easter as a sacred period that embodies sacrifice, forgiveness and love.
“As Christians across the world celebrate this year’s Easter which commenced on Friday, I warmly felicitate with my Christian brothers and sisters in Borno State and beyond,” Zulum said.
The governor noted that the celebration marks the culmination of the 40-day Lenten season activities, a period devoted to fasting, abstinence, prayer, repentance, self-discipline, and sober reflection.
Governor Zulum reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the security, welfare, and overall well-being of the people of the state.
“This year, we have scaled up our palliative distribution to reach over 300,000 families in an effort to cushion the effects of the current economic hardship. It is encouraging to note that many vulnerable households have benefited from this intervention,” he stated.
The governor also called for unity and restraint, particularly in the current political climate.
“I want to remind us that Borno belongs to all of us. We must shun divisive tendencies, especially during this political period. We have embarked on a collective journey of recovery, and we must not allow enemies of peace to derail our progress,” he added.
Reiterating his administration’s resolve to sustain peace, Governor Zulum expressed optimism about ending Boko Haram insurgency and strengthening the existing harmony amongst the people.
“It is heartening to observe the level of religious harmony between Christians and Muslims in the state. I urge all residents to sustain this spirit as we continue to take deliberate steps towards achieving lasting peace,” he said.
The governor commended traditional rulers and religious leaders from both faiths for their roles in promoting peaceful coexistence and urged them to continue nurturing unity and tolerance.
Governor Zulum paid tribute to the Nigerian Armed Forces, other security agencies, members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), hunters, and vigilantes for their sacrifices and recent gains in counteri nsurgency operations.