Katsina Christians celebrate Christmas low-key under tight security

Christians in Katsina Local Government Area of Katsina State observed a low-key Christmas amid a heavy security presence at churches and major streets in the state capital.

The security strategy involved both stationary guards and mobile convoys, designed to provide a “steel dome” of protection over religious landmarks.

At major worship centres, including Living Faith Church, Dunamis International Gospel Centre, the Catholic Church, and ECWA buildings, uniformed officers from the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) stood guard.

Notably, Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal vans were strategically placed near church perimeters, a sobering reminder of the preventive measures taken to ensure worshippers’ safety.

Beyond the church gates, the rhythm of the city was defined by the constant movement of security convoys.

Patrols were particularly concentrated in high-traffic hubs such as Tudun Katsira, Kiddies Roundabout, and Kofa Kaura.

Despite the heavy security, many churches witnessed low attendance, with pews that are usually full by 8:00 am showing visible gaps.

Some residents attributed the calm to the annual migration of people travelling to ancestral homes.

In an interview, worshippers who only gave their first names as Tabitha, Samuel, and Gabriel said, “We feel safe because the police are here, but the small crowd makes the celebration feel a bit lonely compared to previous years.”

Nevertheless, services concluded without any reported incidents.

Sermons focused on themes of the purpose of Jesus’ birth, peace, resilience, and national hope, while congregants sang songs of praise to honour God for the salvation of mankind

Culled from punch.