The Kebbi State Government organized a high-profile interfaith prayer session on Saturday in Birnin Kebbi, bringing together Muslim and Christian leaders to seek divine intervention against the growing wave of insecurity across the state and the nation. The event was aimed at fostering unity, promoting communal harmony, and reinforcing collective resolve to address challenges such as banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes.
Governor Nasir Idris, who presided over the gathering, emphasized that the session was not only a spiritual exercise but also a public affirmation of Kebbi State’s commitment to peace and interreligious cooperation. “No state can claim to be 100 per cent peaceful, and security challenges are real across Nigeria. However, those who say Kebbi or Nigeria is not peaceful, or that there is discord between Muslims and Christians, are spreading falsehood,” Idris said. He further highlighted that Kebbi has maintained relative peace compared to several other states, but continuous prayers and proactive engagement are necessary to sustain this harmony.
Organized by the Ministry for Religious Affairs, the event drew religious leaders from all 21 local government areas of Kebbi State. Muslim and Christian clerics jointly offered intercessory prayers for the protection of communities, the safety of residents, and the restoration of peace in areas affected by criminal activities.
Among the dignitaries present were Senator Atiku Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning; Sulaiman Argungu, APC National Organising Secretary; former Chief Judge of Kebbi State, Justice Bala Mairiga; Abubakar Riba, Chairman of the State Council of Ulama; Umar Malisa, Chairman of the Preaching Board; and Femi Orofin, Vice Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kebbi State. Their presence underscored the importance of unity and collaboration between government officials, religious leaders, and the citizenry in tackling insecurity.
Governor Idris urged Nigerians not to politicize security issues and called for national solidarity in combating the threats posed by bandits and kidnappers. “Security is not a matter for political point-scoring. It is a collective responsibility. Peace is strengthened when citizens, religious leaders, and government work together,” he said.
Clerics from both faiths led prayers for divine intervention, protection of lives and property, and the enlightenment of those who perpetrate crimes. They also prayed for the wisdom of government authorities and security agencies tasked with protecting citizens, highlighting the importance of community participation in security initiatives.
The interfaith gathering comes amid increasing concerns over insecurity in northern Nigeria, including repeated bandit attacks, kidnappings, and armed robberies in neighboring states. Authorities and community leaders continue to advocate for stronger collaboration between security agencies, local communities, and religious organizations to curb violence and restore public confidence.
Governor Idris concluded the event by reaffirming Kebbi State’s commitment to peaceful coexistence among its diverse population and called on residents to remain vigilant, supportive of law enforcement, and united in the quest for lasting peace.
