The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has reaffirmed its commitment to advocating peace in the violence-prone communities in Plateau, Benue, and Gombe state.

The Association said this in a statement signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh in Abuja on Saturday.

CAN condemned the ongoing violence in some parts of the country, reaffirming its commitment to advocating for the safety, security, and dignity of affected communities.

“This appeal is imperative as violence in the Middle Belt continues to claim lives, with recent attacks in Benue and Plateau, resulting in significant casualties and displacement, further highlighting the urgent need for collective action and dialogue.

”

CAN urged Nigerians irrespective of their backgrounds and faiths to support ongoing peace talks and avoid actions or rhetoric that could escalate tensions in the affected states.

The association highlighted its ongoing efforts, including visits to affected areas to provide relief items and solidarity, and emphasised the importance of verified information to prevent further division.

It also encouraged open dialogue among all stakeholders, both local and international, and pointed to platforms like the Nigerian Inter-Religious Council as key to finding sustainable solutions.

“We appeal to all citizens to refrain from spreading unverified information that may deepen divisions.

“The strength of our nation lies in our unity, and it is only through collective effort that we can build a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.

“Let us embrace the teachings of the Holy Bible to love our neighbours, and the pursue peace with all,” it said.

CAN reiterated its dedication to promoting peace, unity, and understanding, calling on all parties to work together for the well-being of every Nigerian, regardless of faith or ethnicity

Gov. Peter Mbah of Enugu State has declared Enugu City International Marathon as an annual event to aimed at harnessing the skills of the youths.

The state governor, who kicked off the 42 kilometre race with a gun sound at exactly 6.30am, emphasized the significance of the event, saying over 100 international athletes from around the world participated.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that the marathon which began from Mgbemena area of the state passed through Coal Camp Road, Independence Layout, Zik Avenue, Okpara Square, Presidential and NTA Roads, Market Square and Ebe Ano Tunnel Road.

Mbah also participated in the 10 kilometre race which kicked off at exactly 9:30am.

In the male and female categories, Kenyans took the first positions with the prize sum of $15,000 each, first runners up from Ethiopia, were given $10,000 each, 3rd positions smiled home with $5,000 each while other and consolation prizes were given to other athletes.

The governor expressed his profound joy for its success, noting that the race was ran alongside Nigeria’s top distance runners, making it the largest road race ever staged in southeastern Nigeria.

He added that the state hosted the marathon to make Enugu State a sporting hub for global competitions and activities

This, he said, would showcase the richness of the state and its hospitable disposition to the entire world and attracting over 3 million tourists into Enugu.

According to him, making the marathon an annual event will drive tourism, stimulate local businesses, and create lasting economic benefits as Enugu is open for tourism, investment, and world-class sporting events.

The event attracted the likes of former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, an legendary movie actor, Nkem Owo popularly known as Osuofia, among others.

The marathon featured live entertainment, including a performance by popular Nigerian artiste Kcee, transforming the event into a full-scale celebration of sport, music, and entertainment

The Federal Road Corps (FRSC) has appointed Mr Olamide Mogaji, as it’s Sector Commander in Plateau.Mr Peter Longsan, the Public Education Officer of th corps in the state, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday in Jos.According Longsan, Mogaji replaced Mr Maxwell Lede, who has been posted to Katsina State as sector commander.

“Following the recent redeployment of some senior officers across some commands in the country, Mr Olamide Mogaji is the new sector commander in Plateau“Until his redeployment to Plateau, he was the Zonal Head of Administration in FRSC Zone 8, Kwara. “Mogaji is a seasoned administratorwho worked in various capacities and has held many sensitive positions in the corps,”Longsan said.The public education officer urged Plateau residents to support and cooperate with the new sector commander towards ensuring a safe motoring environment in the state.(NAN)