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By Ahmad Ali Usman, Kafanchan
A seven-days prayer challenge was organised where a special Christian and Muslim prayer sessions in Kafanchan, Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State, seeking divine guidance, protection and success for the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd), as well as lasting peace and prosperity for Nigeria.
The Christian prayer session, which marked the closing of the seven-day programme at the New Generation Baptist Church, Kafanchan, while the Muslim segment took place at the Ansar-ud-Deen Mosque in the town.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, the convener of the initiative, Sir Joel Olusayo Adegboyega, said the prayer challenge was inspired by biblical injunctions that enjoin believers to pray for leaders, particularly those entrusted with the responsibility of maintaining peace and security.
He described Gen. Musa as a “strategic leader and gatekeeper,” noting that his past roles as Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and his current position as Minister of Defence showed a deep commitment to national stability.
Adegboyega recalled that shortly after Musa’s retirement as CDS, the country witnessed a surge in insecurity, including terrorism, banditry and kidnapping, which, according to him, underscored the stabilising role the former service chief had played.
“A brave and intelligent officer, he was celebrated by his men and Nigerians across ethnic and religious lines. Many cried out for his return, and we thank God that he is back to continue serving the nation,” he said.
The convener also shared personal experiences of insecurity, recounting how he lost valuable property, including computer systems and generators, during the 2011 post-presidential election violence in Kafanchan.
“I know what it means to lose everything and to live without peace. I have slept nights with my eyes open and supervised examinations under military escort. That is why I believe strongly that peace is priceless and must be sustained,” he said.
Adegboyega stressed the need for continuous prayers for the Defence Minister’s safety, divine direction and protection from saboteurs, adding that peace enjoyed in many communities today should not be taken for granted.
He further prayed for national leaders at all levels, calling for godly counsel, unity, selflessness and protection for members of the armed forces, while asking God to expose evildoers and grant the country lasting peace.
The convener appreciated the support of Rev. Jerry Okelade and Imam Abdulrazaq Olorunkemi for opening their congregations for the interfaith prayers, noting that the initiative received wide engagement, with over 80,000 views on social media.
In a related development, Muslim faithful under the same prayer challenge also held a special session at the Ansar-ud-Deen Mosque, Kafanchan, where prayers were offered for the success of Gen. Musa, peace in Jema’a LGA, Kaduna State and Nigeria at large.
Participants at both prayer sessions called on Nigerians to sustain prayers and collective support for security agencies, stressing that peace and development can only thrive in an atmosphere of unity and shared responsibility.
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