Reviving Nineveh
Governor Al-Dakhil champions the return of Christians
By Sarah Kittle
Governor Abdul Qader Al-Dakhil of Nineveh has been actively working to support the return of Christians to the province through a combination of infrastructure projects, cultural initiatives, and direct engagement with the community.
Key efforts include rehabilitating the main road leading to Mar Matti Monastery, which had remained neglected for more than 30 years, and launching reconstruction works for historic sites such as the Maskanta Church, one of Mosul’s oldest Christian churches. The governor has also overseen the rebuilding of the Church Complex of Hosh Al-Bi’aa in Mosul’s Old City and inaugurated the nuns’ “House of Prayer” in Al-Saa’a Church following its reconstruction.
Beyond Mosul, restoration efforts continue across districts and towns in Nineveh, including projects at Mar Quriakos Church and numerous other places of worship. Governor Al-Dakhil frequently visits churches, dioceses, and episcopal leaderships, meeting directly with Christian clergy to coordinate support and address community needs.
To foster cultural engagement and a sense of belonging, he is working to establish a cultural center in the heart of Old Mosul, aimed at supporting returning Christians and preserving the city’s rich heritage. Extending his outreach internationally, Governor Al-Dakhil has also met with the Chaldean American community here in Michigan, focusing on initiatives that encourage the return of Christians from the diaspora.
In addition to these initiatives, Governor Al-Dakhil has actively contributed to community development and support. He made a recommendation for the creation of the local community police, provided financial support to the three sports clubs in the Nineveh Plain—Alqosh, Teleskuf, and Qaraqosh—and approved the rehabilitation of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Telkeif as well as one Assyrian church in Mosul.
Through these multifaceted efforts, Governor Abdul Qader Al-Dakhil is actively contributing to the revitalization of Christian life in Nineveh, strengthening both the physical and cultural foundations that enable communities to return and flourish.