Bauchi State governor, Bala Mohammed, has reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to uphold inclusive governance and promote peaceful coexistence among residents of the state, insisting that discrimination or marginalisation of any group will not be tolerated.
The governor made the statement while receiving members of the Christian community during the annual Christmas rally and homage to the Government House, led by the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Bauchi State chapter.
According to Governor Mohammed, Bauchi State has continued to record peace and stability under his leadership, a development he said has created an enabling environment for growth, unity and socio-economic progress.
“This Christmas celebration fills my heart with gratitude and hope. It reminds us of who we are as a people and the values we uphold—love, unity, and mutual respect,” he said.
He explained that since assuming office in 2019, his administration has been guided by the principle that every citizen of Bauchi State belongs equally, regardless of religion, ethnicity or geographical location.
“Through deliberate policies and actions, we have strengthened religious freedom, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence between our predominantly Muslim population and our Christian minority,” the governor noted.
Describing Bauchi as a model of religious harmony, Governor Mohammed said the state’s peace was deeply rooted in its culture and shared values, where people of different faiths often live together as one family.
“Our peace is not accidental. It is built on tolerance, understanding, and the recognition of our shared humanity,” he said.
The governor stressed that inclusivity remains central to his administration’s policies, appointments and programmes, noting that unity and trust are essential for sustainable development.
He also spoke on the recent creation of new emirates and a chiefdom, explaining that the initiative was aimed at deepening local governance, promoting self-actualisation and strengthening traditional institutions as agents of peace and development.
“Traditional institutions are pillars of cohesion in Bauchi State. These reforms will foster inclusivity and enable more communities to participate meaningfully in governance,” he stated.
Governor Mohammed said that despite its diversity in culture, ethnicity and faith, Bauchi State remains united with a shared future and common purpose.
He added that although Christmas is a Christian celebration, its values of love, compassion, generosity and hope resonate across all faiths.
“In Bauchi, when it is Eid, we celebrate together, and when it is Christmas, we also celebrate together. Our joy is collective and our destiny is shared,” he said.
The governor acknowledged the support of the Christian community during his election, assuring them of continued fairness in political appointments and equitable distribution of projects across the state.
“I will continue to protect the dignity, safety, and prosperity of every resident of Bauchi State without discrimination,” he pledged.
Earlier, the Bauchi State chairman of CAN, Rev. Dr. Abraham Damina Dimeus, commended the governor for what he described as all-inclusive governance that has ensured fairness and equity in the distribution of appointments and development projects.
Represented by the CAN Secretary, Rev. Matthew Wakili Laslimbo, the chairman said the governor had fulfilled key promises made to the Christian community, including the completion of the CAN Secretariat, allocation of a new Christian cemetery and improved infrastructure in Christian-dominated areas.
He added that the Christian community would continue to pray for the governor to end his tenure successfully.
The event also featured goodwill messages from Christian appointees and elected representatives, who praised the governor for ensuring that Christians in the state were not marginalised.
Several Christian groups used the occasion to present awards to Governor Mohammed in recognition of his commitment to good governance and religious harmony.
