Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), LCC Kirikasama, Maiduguri, on Sunday held a special prayer session for peace, unity, stability and progress in Maiduguri, Borno State and Nigeria as a whole.
Speaking during the event, Apostle Joshua Akeredolu, who is also the Secretary of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Borno State Chapter, said the church’s national headquarters directed all its branches across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to organise special prayers against insecurity and for lasting peace in the country.
The prayer session was also a show of solidarity against the growing insecurity and rampant kidnapping of innocent citizens across Nigeria.
Addressing journalists at the church premises, Apostle Akeredolu reiterated the importance of the special prayers and stressed the need for peace, unity, stability and national development.
He called on the Federal Government and relevant authorities, particularly security agencies, to intensify efforts towards restoring peace and stability across the country. He lamented that many CAN leaders and members had either been killed, kidnapped or subjected to torture by criminal elements.
The CAN secretary noted that the association had continued to collaborate with government and security agencies to safeguard the lives and property of its members, while urging authorities to do more in tackling insecurity.
According to him, CAN will not relent in preaching the gospel of peace, unity and stability among its members and the wider society. He also urged Boko Haram captives to abandon violence and embrace peace.
Apostle Akeredolu called for an end to insecurity in Borno State and Nigeria at large, adding that CAN prayed for the release of Rev. Musa of COCIN Church, who was abducted alongside his wife in Gamboru Ngala in 2023. He also prayed for the repose of the souls of pastors and other Christians abducted and killed by Boko Haram terrorists in the state.
The special prayer session attracted church leaders, families of abductees and Christian faithful from various denominations. Following the prayers, Akeredolu explained that the programme was in response to a directive from the national leadership of CAN, led by Bishop Daniel Okoh, who called on Christians across the country to gather and pray.
He said the day was designated as “Black Sunday” for believers nationwide to offer prayers for those still being held captive by Boko Haram insurgents and bandits, and to seek divine intervention for an end to insecurity in Borno State, the North-East region and Nigeria as a whole.
The CAN scribe further stated that prayers were also offered for the nation’s leaders, asking God to grant them wisdom and direction in addressing the security challenges facing the country.
He added that beyond prayers, the church continues to engage in advocacy and interventions where necessary to ensure the protection of Christians and church communities.
Akeredolu disclosed that CAN in Borno State has recorded several cases of pastors and church members who were abducted and killed by Boko Haram terrorists, while many others remain in captivity.
