AFRICA/NIGERIA - Bishop Doeme Dashe: "Maiduguri is more peaceful today thanks to Mary’s protection"

Abuja (Agenzia Fides) - "Our Mother Mary promises to protect her children and we have seen this come true in the diocese of Maiduguri," said the Bishop of Maiduguri, Oliver Doeme Dashe, on the anniversary of the consecration of the diocese to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
"Since we consecrated our diocese to the Immaculate Heart of Mary 13 years ago, we have experienced her wonderful protection, even in the most dangerous situations," stressed the Bishop of Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, where the jihadist sect Boko Haram, which has been threatening the population of large parts of Nigeria for decades, was born.
At the height of the uprising, more than 25 parishes had to be abandoned and their members left the diocese. Today, almost all parishes are open again and most have priests again. Bishop Doeme attributes the reopening of these parishes and the return of the faithful to their homes "to the work of Our Lady."
"Maiduguri is more peaceful today and Our Lady has defeated Boko Haram," said Bishop Doeme. "Her protection is our strength and we remain committed to Marian devotion in her honor and in the honor of her Son." Bishop Doeme also recalls in this context that despite years of violent attacks by Boko Haram and other armed groups, no priest was affected by the attacks.
Although it is the largest diocese in Nigeria by area and is located in one of the most dangerous regions, Bishop Doeme and his auxiliary bishop, John Bogna Bakeni, are now out pastorally working in their area without putting themselves in danger, proving that intercession can protect the faithful even in the face of ongoing conflict. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 10/12/2024)

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