IPCR Urges Peace, Unity as Nigerians Celebrate Christmas

By: Michael Mike

As Nigerians join millions around the world to mark the Christmas season, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has appealed to citizens to conduct themselves peacefully and uphold the values of unity, tolerance and mutual respect.

In a Christmas message signed by its Director-General, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, the Institute described the festive period as a time for reflection, reconciliation and renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence. It noted that the values associated with Christmas—love, compassion and forgiveness—remain critical to addressing the country’s security and social challenges.

The Institute stressed that peacebuilding is a shared responsibility that requires the active participation of individuals, communities and institutions. According to IPCR, sustainable peace can only be achieved when justice, equity and fairness are upheld, adding that peace should be seen not merely as the absence of conflict but as the presence of social justice.

Highlighting its mandate, IPCR said it has continued to play a key role in promoting peace and stability across Nigeria through research, policy advisory services and direct interventions in conflict-prone areas. The Institute revealed that it has trained thousands of mediators, peace practitioners and community leaders, whose efforts have helped prevent the escalation of disputes and foster harmony in various parts of the country.

IPCR also called on leaders at all levels to prioritize peace and national cohesion, particularly during the festive season, while urging citizens to show compassion towards the vulnerable and marginalized in society.

The Institute reminded Christians that the birth of Jesus Christ, celebrated on December 25, symbolizes peace and peaceful coexistence, values it said are essential for national development. It further advised Nigerians traveling for the celebrations to act as ambassadors of peace by spreading messages of love, tolerance and understanding wherever they go.

According to the Institute, a peaceful environment remains a catalyst for development, noting that nations that enjoy stability progress faster than those plagued by conflict.

IPCR however urged Nigerians to use the Christmas season to recommit themselves to building a more inclusive and harmonious society.

IPCR Urges Peace, Unity as Nigerians Celebrate Christmas

Damasak: Zulum Approves 30% Review of Health Workers Allowances

…Directs the Rehabilitation of Dilapidated Public Structures

By: Our Reporter

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has approved an immediate increase in the rural allowance for health personnel at General Hospital Damasak, from 12% to 30%.

The Governor announced the measure on Wednesday during an inspection visit to the hospital as part of his ongoing security and resilience-building tour of Northern Borno. The visit included an interactive session with health workers, where he listened to their operational challenges.

“I have listened to all your concerns,” Governor Zulum stated. “Let me at this moment announce the immediate increase of rural allowance for all health personnel in General Hospital Damasak from 12% to 30%. This is to motivate the workers and ensure retention of frontline health workers in hard-to-reach areas.”

In addition to the increase in allowance, Governor Zulum directed the employment of additional laboratory staff to strengthen diagnostic services. He also confirmed that health workers currently engaged by non-governmental organisations would be automatically absorbed into the state civil service upon the expiration of their contracts.

Furthermore, the Governor approved the automatic employment of all 30 volunteer health workers at the facility into the state health system. “I further directed that they be enrolled in government-supported training and capacity-building programmes to enhance their professional skills,” he said, also presenting each volunteer with a cash support of ₦50,000 in appreciation of their frontline service.

The Governor equally approved the immediate provision of a 120KVA generator to ensure uninterrupted power supply, the deployment of an ambulance to enhance emergency response, and the renovation of staff quarters.

He stressed that his vision is to deliver quality, affordable, and reliable healthcare to every community. He emphasised that “health is wealth” and remains a cornerstone of sustainable development in Borno State.

…Directs the Rehabilitation of Dilapidated Public Structures

Prior to the hospital visit, Governor Zulum conducted an early-morning inspection of key public institutions in Damasak, including the Central Primary School, a newly completed Mega High Islamic School, a 20-unit housing estate, and an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp, where he directed the immediate renovation of dilapidated buildings.

“The visit was to enable my administration to take immediate and informed decisions on renovation,” the Governor said, stressing that “no child should be forced to learn in an unsafe or unconducive environment.”

He added: “I want to reassure the IDPs of continued government support. Improving the living conditions for displaced families remains a moral obligation and a key pillar of my administration’s recovery and resettlement agenda.”

Upon his arrival in Damasak on Tuesday, Governor Zulum visited troops of the 5 Brigade Nigerian Army who was received by the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General R. O. Agbi, where he paid tribute to their service. He praised what he described as their “exceptional doggedness and gallantry” in safeguarding lives and communities, reaffirming that security remains the cornerstone of his administration’s agenda for peace and development.

Damasak: Zulum Approves 30% Review of Health Workers Allowances

Borno Govt Disburses ₦15m to 500 Widows, Orphans in Christmas Welfare Outreach

By: Our Reporter

The Borno State Government has disbursed the sum of ₦15 million to 500 widows and orphans across the state as part of its Christmas welfare intervention programme.

The gesture was carried out through the Ohaneze APC Support Group and officially flagged off at a ceremony organised by the group to mark the Yuletide season.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman and Coordinator of the Ohaneze APC Support Group, Chief Ugochukwu E. Egwudike JP (Go Easy), said the initiative was designed to bring relief and encouragement to vulnerable members of society and to ensure they share in the joy of the Christmas celebration.

Chief Egwudike explained that each beneficiary received ₦30,000, noting that the programme reflects the commitment of the Borno State Government to compassion, inclusiveness and social welfare, particularly during major religious festivities.

He further commended the state government for prioritising the welfare of widows, orphans and other less-privileged citizens, stressing that the administration remains focused on policies and programmes that promote social protection and community wellbeing.

Some of the beneficiaries, while speaking at the event, expressed appreciation to the state government and the Ohaneze APC Support Group for the timely intervention, describing it as a morale booster that would enable them to celebrate Christmas with dignity and renewed hope.

Borno Govt Disburses ₦15m to 500 Widows, Orphans in Christmas Welfare Outreach