Christians joined Muslims for Eid prayers and visits as security warnings spread across Taraba, Plateau, and Southern Kaduna states.

The message of unity came as the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) encouraged Nigerians to use Eid-el-Fitr as a moment for national renewal despite insecurity and financial hardship.

At the same time, security alerts circulated on March 19 by TruthNigeria warned of imminent attacks in parts of Taraba, Plateau, and southern Kaduna, including the Chenchenji–Yelwa axis and communities in Chikun, Kajuru, and Kachia, Ancha, and Jebbu Miango, where armed groups were reportedly mobilizing.

CAN President Daniel Okoh extended Eid greetings to the Muslim community, urging citizens to uphold values observed during Ramadan, including care for vulnerable people and peaceful coexistence.

“From insecurity to economic hardship, the challenges before us are real, but so too is our shared strength,” Okoh said, calling on Nigerians to prioritize dialogue and unity across religious and ethnic lines.

The plea for unity comes amid continued violence affecting Christian communities in Nigeria’s northeastern and Middle Belt regions. According to data compiled by International Christian Concern (ICC), dozens of Christians were killed during the Ramadan period in 2026 alone by armed groups identified as Boko Haram, Islamic State West Africa Province, and Fulani ethnic militias.

In Taraba state, local sources reported movements of armed fighters across the Donga River toward vulnerable communities, with some allegedly disguising themselves within cattle herds. In southern Kaduna, residents described increased motorcycle movements and infiltration into forest areas, including Rijana and Kamuku. In Plateau state, Fulani militias attacked villages like Ancha and Jebbu Miango.

“The terrorists are committing terrorism to die during Ramadan because they believe they will enter paradise when they die during Ramadan,” said Christopher Musa, Nigeria’s chief of defense staff.

Despite these conditions, Christian and Muslim residents in several communities continued customary Eid visits, sharing meals and exchanging greetings in mixed neighborhoods, even as some families remained displaced or avoided travel due to safety concerns.

CAN said it joined Muslim leaders in prayers for peace, improved security, and economic recovery, while also calling for wisdom and accountability among Nigeria’s leaders as communities across the country navigate continuing threats.

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