In a bid to sustain the existing peaceful relationship between Christian and Muslim communities in Niger State, the Islamic Education Trust (IET) has donated a borehole to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).
While speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Director General of IET, Alhaji Arzika Abubakar Rimau said the IET decided to donate the borehole so as to help strengthen interfaith relationship.
He said accordingly that “we love Nigeria irrespective of religion or tribes. We do not subscribe to anyone who does not believe in interfaith.
“The provision of a borehole to CAN is part of our commitment to strengthening interfaith harmony and unity in Niger State”.
The Director General said the gesture reflects the enduring legacy of Sheikh Ahmed Lemu, who championed interfaith collaboration and shared a close bond with Christian clergy like late Father O’Connell, a key contributor to the state’s educational development.
Chairman of CAN in Niger State, Most Rev. Dr. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna while expressing gratitude on behalf of the Christian community, described the IET’s gesture as a symbol of unity, which encourages continued collaboration between both faiths for societal progress.
Earlier, Director of Liaison Services Department, Alhaji Ibrahim Yahaya acknowledged Ms Victoria Ndagi for drawing the organization’s attention to the water needs of the CAN Secretariat.
Also speaking, the former CAN Chairman, Revd. Mathias Echioda, and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Inter-Tribal Affairs, Sir George Dike, lauded the IET for its inclusive outreach, adding that, such gestures affirm Niger State as a safe haven for peaceful religious coexistence.
As part of the event, the IET presented an award of recognition to Ms Victoria Ndagi for her role in fostering interfaith collaboration and promoting community development.
She was described as a bridge-builder between faiths, noting that her recommendation led IET to extend similar humanitarian projects to other Christian communities. He added that the award presented to her was well deserved.
Highlight of the event was the ribbon-cutting ceremony and handing over.
