Michael Olugbode
Christians in Borno State monday offered special prayers for the quick recovery of President Muhammadu Buhari.
The prayers were coordinated by the state chapter of the Christians Association of Nigeria (CAN) and clergymen drawn from various churches in the state.
Christians in the state had earlier been called to dedicate the day to offering special prayers and fasting to God to improve the health of President Buhari.
The national body of CAN had last Friday, in a statement signed by Evangelist Kwamkur Samuel, Director Legal and Public Affairs, called on Christian bodies and indeed all God-fearing Nigerians to declare special praying time for Buhari and the nation.
The state Governor, Kashim Shettima, had also instructed the state Ministry of Religious Affairs to write the CAN chairman requesting prayers for the quick recovery of the president in appreciation of his commitment to the fight against the Boko Haram insurgency.
A combined interdenominational church services commenced across the state will last for seven days, and will also be intensified with fasting and prayers for peace, unity and progress of the nation.
Similar prayers had earlier been offered by Muslims in all the mosques in the state during last Friday congregational prayers.
The state CAN Chairman, Bishop Mohammed Naga, led other clerics and Christian faithful, to offer prayers at Bulumkutu Church of Brethren in Nigeria also known as Ekkliziyan Yan’uwa a Nigeria (EYN), which was one of the zonal prayer meeting points.
Similar prayers were offered in another zone at Saint Timothy Catholic Church, Shagari Lowcost area, near 7 Division, Nigerian Army in Maiduguri.
In an interview with THISDAY, Bishop Naga said the fasting and prayers among all Christian denominations throughout the week, will simultaneously be conducted at various designated churches in the state.
“I want to seize this opportunity to thank God for making it possible to be alive today. Today (yesterday) is a special day for us, as we have dedicated it throughout the week to offer fasting and prayers for quick and safe return of our dear President Buhari.
“This president and his team started very well in trying to position our country for better. His commitment in the fight against Boko Haram and militancy in the Niger Delta region has yielded positive results.
“The ongoing fight against corruption which is devoid of any sentiments, religious or political consideration is also highly commendable.
“I also call on us to pray for the speedy recovery and good health of President Buhari in order to join us back home soon.”
