The Bauchi State Government, under Governor Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, has approved and commenced the distribution of Christmas gifts valued at over ₦500 million (with some reports citing ₦540 million) to Christian faithful across the state. The initiative includes livestock and essential food items aimed at supporting joyful celebrations and promoting religious harmony in the multi-ethnic, multi-religious state.
Mr. Abdon Dalla-Gin, Chairman of the Standing Committee on the Distribution of Christmas Gifts and Special Adviser to the Governor on Christian Affairs, briefed journalists on the gesture. He detailed the procured items: 171 bulls, 222 rams, 3,462 bags of 50-kilogramme rice, and 504 cartons of 25-litre groundnut oil. These will be shared among the five blocs of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), senior Christian leaders, religious organizations, military and paramilitary personnel with Christian affiliations, and less-privileged groups statewide.
Dalla-Gin praised Governor Mohammed for the annual tradition, describing it as a hallmark of inclusive governance that fosters peace and unity. He noted that the distribution complements other supports, including the early payment of December salaries to state workers, easing festive preparations amid economic challenges.
The gesture reflects the administration's commitment to equity across faiths, with local government caretaker committees also providing additional assistance to Christian communities. Dalla-Gin assured continued backing from the Christian populace for the governor's policies aimed at uplifting living standards.
This year's allocation continues a longstanding practice under Governor Mohammed since 2019, though scaled up significantly from previous years (e.g., ₦120 million in 2023). It aligns with broader efforts to promote interfaith tolerance in Bauchi, a state known for its diverse population.
As Christians marked the 2025 Christmas on December 25, the initiative has been welcomed as a tangible demonstration of goodwill, reinforcing communal bonds during the season of love and sharing.
