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By Ndahi Salihu, Maiduguri
The President of the Northern Christian Association, formerly known as Northern CAN, which comprises 19 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) of Abuja, Reverend Joseph John Hayab has distributed humanitarian aid to 1,000 heads of families who have been displaced by over a decade of Boko Haram crisis and are now sheltering in camps and host communities in Maiduguri, Borno State.
The assorted relief items, packaged in various forms, are 25kg bags of rice, 25kg bags of Garri, 25kg bags of maize, 25kg bags of beans, vegetable oil, palm oil, gear, salt, among other condiments donated by Barnabas Aid UK.
Similar exercises have been conducted in Benue, Plateau, Kaduna and, by extension, Ondo State targeting people affected by violence and other humanitarian crises.
Interrupting distribution at the Pentecostal Believers Covenant Church (PBCC), Gomari Airport, Maiduguri on Saturday, Reverend Hayab expressed shock at the conditions of displaced people after visiting some Christian Displaced Persons Camps (CDPC) in Jerusalem and other communities in the state.
Addressing the beneficiaries, especially those living with disabilities, the President of the Northern Christian Association said that the gesture began in December last year, which has benefited several states such as Kaduna, Benue, Plateau and Ondo, adding that Borno State, which is one of the worst states that has suffered severe destruction of lives and properties, with the displacement of many people, is also considered by Barnabas Aid UK, as a tool to cushion the economic hardship.
“It is with a heart full of gratitude and a spirit of humility that I stand before you in this historic city of Maiduguri. We gather here today not only to distribute material aid, but to reaffirm a profound truth: that in times of trial we are not forgotten. We are not alone.
“On behalf of the Northern Christian Association, I extend our deepest appreciation to Barnabas Aid for this extraordinary intervention.
“Reaching 1,000 families in this region, a region that has endured so much conflict, displacement and hardship, is no small feat. It is a powerful demonstration of love in action, of faith that doesn’t just speak but reaches out to touch lives.
“To you, the beneficiaries: Today, when you receive these items, whether food or other essentials, let them serve as a tangible reminder that there are people near and far who care about your well-being. Your struggle is seen. Your pain is recognized. And your resilience inspires us all.
“Life in the North East has been challenging. Many of you have lost your homes, loved ones and livelihoods. Yet here you are, strong, waiting for tomorrow. That strength is not in vain. We, the Christian community across Northern Nigeria, stand with you in prayer and practical support.
‘Let us also use this opportunity to call for the maintenance of peace and unity in Borno State and beyond. No religion teaches hate. No faith encourages violence. We are all children of God, deserving of dignity, compassion and the chance to rebuild our lives.
“I encourage you to receive this support with joy and share the love you have received with your neighbors, regardless of their faith or tribe. Let this be a moment that strengthens the bond of our common humanity.
“Once again, thank you, Barnabas Aid UK, for being a vehicle of hope. And to all the families here today: may God Almighty bless you, protect you and restore all you have lost.” The President said.
Earlier, in his welcome address, the General Secretary of the Northern Christian Association, who also serves as the President of the Christian Association of North Eastern Nigeria, Bishop Mohammed Naga, commended Barnabas Aid UK for the support which he said would go a long way in assisting the displaced Christian brothers.
He assured that the donated items will be distributed judiciously for their intended purpose, even as he commended the beneficiaries for their orderliness.
In their vote of thanks separately, Mr Andraus Bzalava, representing Gava District Head, Mr John Dogo, and a widow and Boko Haram victim, Noami Daniel, as well as some disabled victims thanked Barnabas Aid UK for the gesture.
They also expressed their deep appreciation to the President of the Northern Christian Association, Reverend Hayab, for extending their support to them, and prayed to Almighty God to bless them and restore peace not only in Borno State, but the country as a whole.
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