Christmas: Zulum Calls on Borno Residents to Safeguard the Sacred Bond of Unity

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has appealed to residents of the state to consciously preserve and defend the strong bond of unity that binds them together, irrespective of ethnic background, religious affiliation, or political inclination.

In his Christmas goodwill message delivered through his spokesperson, Dauda Iliya, the governor congratulated Christians across Borno State for witnessing another Christmas celebration. He expressed gratitude to God for the gift of life and extended warm seasonal wishes to families marking the festive period.

Governor Zulum, who is presently undertaking a four-day security and resilience-focused tour across parts of northern Borno, has been engaging directly with military formations to encourage troops on the frontlines. The visit also includes interactions with communities that have been affected by insurgency, with the aim of restoring confidence, strengthening resilience, and ensuring that the dividends of democracy are felt at the grassroots.

Reflecting on the past year, the governor noted that Borno State has recorded notable improvements not only in physical infrastructure but also in social harmony, peaceful coexistence, and mutual understanding between Muslim and Christian communities. According to him, these gains have been achieved despite the long-standing disruptions caused by the Boko Haram insurgency.

Zulum further recalled his recent engagements with the leadership of Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). He explained that the consultations were geared toward deepening collaboration between the state government and religious institutions as part of broader efforts to tackle insecurity and promote sustainable peace across the state.

Emphasizing the importance of shared humanity, the governor described unity as the true strength of Borno’s diverse population. He noted that families in the state often consist of relatives from different religious backgrounds who live together, eat together, celebrate together, and mourn together, without allowing faith differences to divide them.

According to Zulum, this deep-rooted social connection is a sacred bond that must be preserved within households and extended into communities. He urged residents to resist narratives that promote division and instead embrace values of tolerance, mutual respect, and collective responsibility.

The governor called on all citizens, regardless of religious belief, to remain united in the collective pursuit of lasting peace, improved security, and harmonious coexistence. He stressed that these values are essential pillars for meaningful reconstruction, long-term recovery, and sustainable prosperity in Borno State.