In a gesture of goodwill and interfaith harmony, the Islamic Education Trust (IET) donated a borehole to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State on Thursday. The donation was made as part of efforts to promote peaceful coexistence between Christians and Muslims in the state.
During the commissioning ceremony, the Director-General of IET, Alhaji Arzika Abubakar, said, “We love Nigeria irrespective of religion or tribe. We do not subscribe to anyone who does not believe in interfaith.” He added, “The provision of a borehole to CAN is part of our commitment to strengthening interfaith harmony and unity in Niger State.”
Abubakar noted that the gesture reflects the enduring legacy of Sheikh Ahmed Lemu, who championed interfaith collaboration and shared a close bond with Christian clergy like the late Father O’Connell, a key contributor to the state’s educational development.
The Chairman of CAN in Niger State, Most Rev. Dr. Bulus Yohanna, expressed gratitude on behalf of the Christian community, describing IET’s gesture as a symbol of unity that encourages continued collaboration between both faiths for societal progress.
Other speakers at the event, including Director of Liaison Services Department, Alhaji Ibrahim Yahaya; former CAN Chairman, Reverend. Mathias Echioda, and Special Adviser to the Governor on Inter-Tribal Affairs, Sir George Dike, lauded IET for its inclusive outreach.
The event also featured the presentation of an award of recognition to Ms. Victoria Ndagi, a devoted Christian, for her role in fostering interfaith collaboration and promoting community development. Abubakar described her as a bridge-builder between faiths, noting that her recommendation led IET to extend similar humanitarian projects to other Christian communities.
