The Borno State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on Christians to pray and fast on Monday to promote lasting peace in Borno State and Nigeria.
The call follows a statewide broadcast by the State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, who urged all faiths to fast and pray for peace.
In a letter dated May 17, 2025, signed by the State Secretary, Apostle Joshua Akeredolu Michael, CAN stated that it is acting “in solidarity to this clarion call” (referencing Joel 2:1).
The letter, addressed to bloc leaders, local government coordinators, heads of denominations, and ministers-in-charge, calls on Christians to “seek the face of God” regarding the “rising of insurgency and killings” in the state and nation.
CAN also urges prayers for the souls of fallen soldiers, personnel, and other victims of insurgency attacks, and God to comfort their families.
“In solidarity with this clarion call (Joel 2:1), the State CAN, under the Leadership of Most Rev’d Dr. John Bogna Bakeni, wishes to call all brethren within the State to come and seek the face of God over our dear State, most especially the rising insurgency and killings within the State and Nation.
“And also, commit the souls of our Gallant soldiers, personnel and other individuals who lose their lives as a result of insurgents’ attacks, to pray for God to comfort and console their families.
“CAN has directed that all Christians within the state gather to conclude the day of prayer at the First Baptist Church, opposite the State Secretariat, Maiduguri, at 3:00 pm,” the secretary announced.
The letter urged church leaders to announce the fasting and prayer and encourage members to attend.
CAN’s letter quoted Leviticus 26:6: “I will grant peace in the land, you will lie down, and no one will make you afraid. I will remove wild beasts from the land, and the sword will not pass through your country.”
The letter concludes, “It’s our earnest prayer that as we pray, God in His infinite mercy shall heal our State and Nation at large through Christ our Lord, Amen.”
