By: TUNDE BOLAJI MINNA.
The Islamic Education Trust (IET) has donated a borehole to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Secretariat in Minna viewed as part of efforts to promote peaceful coexistence and harmony between the two religion in the state.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Director General of IET, Alhaji Arzika Abubakar Rimau said IET decided to donate the borehole so as to help reignite interfaith relationship.
According to him “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”.
Rimau 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.
While expressing gratitude on behalf of the Christian community, Chairman of CAN in Niger State, Most Rev. Dr. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, described IET’s gesture as a symbol of unity, which encourages continued collaboration between both faiths for societal progress.
Speaking earlier, Director, liaison services Department Alhaji Ibrahim Yahaya appreciated Ms Victoria Ndagi, a devoted Christian, 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.
