Christians in Borno State on Sunday joined the nationwide observance of “Black Sunday,” calling for urgent action to address insecurity, kidnappings and violent attacks across the state and the country.

The procession, held in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, was organised in line with a directive from the national leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to pray for victims of insecurity and seek divine intervention in the nation’s security challenges.

Speaking during the event, the Secretary of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Borno State chapter, Joshua Akeredolu, said the gathering was part of a nationwide initiative championed by CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, to mobilise Christians in prayer for those affected by violence, abductions and terrorism.

According to Akeredolu, the observance was dedicated to praying for individuals currently in captivity, as well as for national leaders to receive the wisdom and direction needed to tackle the country’s worsening security situation.

“Today’s procession is in adherence to the call by the national leadership of CAN headed by Archbishop Daniel Okoh, who urged Christians across the country to gather in prayer against insecurity and for the safety of those being held by kidnappers,” he said.

He lamented that several Christian faithful and clergy members in Borno State had either been abducted or killed by terrorist groups operating in the region.

Akeredolu cited the case of Reverend Musa, who was reportedly kidnapped alongside his wife in Gamboru Ngala in 2023, and recalled other incidents in which abducted Christians lost their lives shortly after being taken captive. He specifically mentioned an EYN Church pastor in Askira-Uba who was killed last year.

He further alleged that many Christians were targeted because of their faith, explaining that abductors often identify victims based on their religious affiliation before deciding their fate.

Despite the challenges, Akeredolu said Christian leaders in the state had continued to engage government authorities through advocacy and dialogue aimed at protecting members of the faith community and drawing attention to their plight.

“The Christian body is helping to protect the church through advocacy and mediation with the government,” he stated.

The Black Sunday observance follows a nationwide declaration by CAN in honour of victims of insecurity across Nigeria. The association described the security crisis as a national tragedy that has devastated countless families through terrorism, banditry, kidnappings and other forms of violence.

In a message to Christians across the country, Archbishop Daniel Okoh said the initiative was intended to mourn the loss and suffering experienced by men, women, children, clergy, farmers, students and entire communities affected by the country’s persistent security challenges.