Borno State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Most Rev. John Bogna Bakeni, has reaffirmed that there is no religious conflict between Christians and Muslims in the state, despite years of insecurity that have affected communities across faith lines.
Bakeni, who also serves as the Auxiliary Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Maiduguri, made the assertion during a high-level interfaith meeting convened by Governor Babagana Umara Zulum at the Government House, Maiduguri. The gathering brought together leading Islamic scholars under Jama’atul Nasrul Islam and Christian clerics under CAN.
Speaking at the meeting, the CAN Chairman emphasized the shared responsibility of religious leaders to safeguard unity and promote peaceful coexistence. He warned against divisive narratives and misinformation capable of undermining the progress made in rebuilding trust among communities.
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“If, at our level as leaders on both the Christian and Muslim sides, we get it right, then our followers will also get it right,” Bakeni said. He commended Governor Zulum’s engagement with religious leaders, describing such consultations as essential to promoting truth and providing moral direction.
Bakeni praised the governor’s commitment, sacrifices, and leadership during years of insecurity, noting that his actions reflect compassion and dedication to the people of Borno. He assured Zulum of the unwavering support and prayers of the Christian community in the state.
The cleric also stressed the need for home-grown solutions to Nigeria’s challenges, cautioning against overreliance on foreign nations.
“America, England, nobody can solve our problems. We are the ones that can solve our problems,” he said. “If we take to heart what His Excellency has said today and implement it, we are going to have a peaceful society.”
Calling for stronger visibility of inclusion and justice for both Christians and Muslims, Bakeni noted that these values would strengthen governance and help religious leaders guide their followers toward peace.
He dismissed notions of a religious war in Borno, clarifying that both Christians and Muslims face common challenges. “Are Christians and Muslims fighting in Borno State? No. Do we have challenges that affect both Christians and Muslims? Yes. So, who is the enemy? We must be very, very careful,” he cautioned.
Bakeni urged journalists and the public to avoid amplifying misleading narratives that could jeopardize the progress achieved after years of hardship.
He expressed optimism that continued collaboration between government and religious institutions would help build a peaceful and prosperous Borno State.
