Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum has congratulated Christians on Easter and encouraged prayers for the success of the continuing struggle against terrorism.
This came following a report of the mass surrender of over 35,000 insurgents.
Malam Isa Gusau, the Governor’s Senior Adviser on Communications and Strategy, issued a statement on Monday urging Christians and other citizens to pray and meditate on the key message of Easter.
He said the message was in line with the Borno government’s programme that welcomed the mass surrenders of insurgents who are currently undergoing security profiling, disarming, demobilisation, and safe reintegration.
He said the procedure would guarantee the full return of sustainable peace in the State.
“To my understanding, some of the main reflections of the Easter festival are the importance of making sacrifices for the greater good of humanity, having the strength to forgive offenders and being able to re-emerge stronger from serious difficulties.
“In over 12 years of our battles with insurgents (Boko Haram and later ISWAP), Borno State, for the first time, has a golden window that has the potential of ending the insurgency.
“The mass surrender of over 35,000 fighters and commanders is certainly one of Allah’s many miracles towards healing Borno and the rest of the North-East.
“This mass surrender is a product of the endless prayers citizens across Borno, the North-East, the rest of Nigeria and indeed the world have been offering, seeking God’s intervention to heal Borno State.
“It is the product of immense sacrifices by the Armed Forces and volunteers. It is a product of repeated calls by political leaders, clergy, elders and traditional rulers, asking insurgents to lay down their arms and embrace peace.
“We must, therefore, be optimistic in welcoming the likely benefits of disarming, demobilising, rehabilitating and reintegrating mass-surrendered insurgents,” he said.
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