The Archbishop of Kaduna state in Nigeria has called out the nation's government for its failure to protect its citizens after eleven Christians were massacred four weeks ago.

Five children and six adults were gunned down by unidentified assailants in the village of Adam Dutse.

Archbishop Matthew Ndagohso has lamented the lack of weaponry for security forces to combat terrorist threats, with 28 homes and a Catholic church also destroyed by the attackers.

"The promise was made to Nigerians to better the nation; therefore, every effort must be made to fulfill it," Archbishop Matthew admonished. He urged government officials to either honour their commitments or step down from their positions if unable to, emphasizing the paramount importance of securing citizens' lives and improving the country's conditions.

Pointing out that the majority of Nigeria's food is produced by rural communities like Adama Dutse, the Archbishop underscored the broader implications of such attacks on agricultural regions.

While some villagers opt to remain despite the dangers, Archbishop Matthew noted that in many cases, similar assaults lead to the abandonment of farms, exacerbating food shortages.

The Middle Belt region, where part of Kaduna Archdiocese is situated, has been plagued by recurring violence, mainly targeting Christian farmers by members of the predominantly Muslim Fulani herder community.

Despite promises by successive governments to address land disputes exacerbated by religious persecution, local Church leaders lament the lack of meaningful progress.

In response to the ongoing crisis, organisations like Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) have assisted victims of Islamist violence in Kaduna State and other affected areas of Nigeria.