The Bishop of the Catholic diocese of Zaria, Most Rev Dr. Habila Tyiakonaboi Daboh advocated seeking assistance from other nations of the world, as one of the viable ways of eradicating insecurity in the country, Nigeria. The bishop who took the stand through his 2025 Christmas Message, recalled that Nigeria has rendered military and peacekeeping assistance to other troubled nations in the past, reasoning that accepting similar help in return, is neither a sign of humiliation nor cowardice.
In the message titled, ‘The Word was made flesh, and He lived among us, and we saw His glory, the glory that is His as the only Son of the Father, full of grace and truth’ (John 1:14), the local ordinary implored the faithful to become witnesses of the Light, and people who reject dishonesty, hatred, and despair, and choosing truth, love, and hope, so that, they may shine in their homes, communities, and nation and reveal His glory.
“Terrorism is a global evil and confronting it requires cooperation beyond one nation. “His Lordship asserted. “The insecurity we face in Nigeria today is deep and complex, driven by terrorist networks that operate beyond borders, using sophisticated systems of violence, arms, and ideology. In such a situation, it is neither shameful nor irresponsible to seek intelligence and security assistance from outside our borders.”
“The Bible itself affirms the value of wise counsel and shared strength: “Plans succeed with advice, and with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 20:18). Nigeria has, in the past, extended military and peacekeeping assistance to other nations in moments of instability, recognising that security anywhere contributes to peace everywhere. To accept help today is to act in the same spirit of solidarity and shared responsibility.”
“Christ came for all, and His peace excludes no one. Jesus Himself taught that the protection of life is a sacred duty: “I have come that they may have life, and have it abundantly” (John 10:10). To defend innocent lives, Christians, Muslims, and people of every ethnic background is to uphold the dignity that God has placed in every human person.”
“It must be clearly stated, and firmly believed, that such assistance is not directed against any ethnic group, religious community, or region of our country. External security cooperation must be focused solely on terrorists and violent criminals who destroy lives, sow fear, and undermine our common humanity.”
To his flock, the bishop nudges, “Dear brothers and sisters, let us recommit ourselves to being peacemakers in a wounded land. Let us pray earnestly for our leaders, that they may stand for true political wisdom, moral courage, and the will to place human life above political interest. May they cease turning the lives of the people into tools of ambition, and instead govern with a deep sense of responsibility.”
“May they always remember that every life lost through negligence or indifference cries out for justice, and that they will one day give an account before God, the righteous Judge, for every drop of innocent blood. Let us pray for our security forces, that they may act with integrity and restraint. Let us pray that Nigeria may one day echo the song of the angels not only in our Churches and Mosques, but in our streets and villages.”
