Writing By Teddy Daniel; Editing By Yusuf Zubairu
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has called on the people of Southern Kaduna to remain united and committed to peace, describing unity as a critical factor in overcoming insecurity and achieving sustainable development.
Speaking after receiving the Southern Kaduna Commander Award at the Southern Kaduna Festival 2026 held at the Kafanchan New Township Stadium, General Musa expressed appreciation for the honour, saying it reflected the sacrifices, resilience and contributions of the people of the region.
He said the recognition was not only a celebration of individual achievements but also an acknowledgement of Southern Kaduna sons and daughters who have distinguished themselves in public service, business, academia, security, sports and other sectors.
The Defence Minister described the festival as an important platform for preserving cultural heritage, promoting unity and strengthening community bonds, which according to him, communities that understand their history are better positioned to shape a better future.
On security, General Musa assured residents that efforts were ongoing to secure the release of kidnapped persons and improve safety across the country. He stressed that lasting peace and development can only flourish where there is cooperation, dialogue, tolerance and mutual respect among citizens.
He also urged young people to embrace education, innovation and skills acquisition while rejecting violence, criminality, extremism and substance abuse.
The Minister reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Government and security agencies to protecting lives and property, noting that security remains the foundation for economic growth, investment, healthcare, education and national development.
Earlier, Chairman of the Southern Kaduna Leadership Council Forum, Mr. Dare Akau, appealed to the Kaduna State Government to restore the status, dignity and powers of traditional rulers, arguing that stronger traditional institutions would enhance security, peace and development in communities.
Mr. Akau described traditional rulers as custodians of culture and authorities closest to the people, with firsthand knowledge of developments within their domains.
He said district, village and ward heads play vital roles in maintaining order, resolving disputes and providing early warning on security threats.
Mr. Akau noted that certain government policies and administrative practices had weakened the authority of traditional rulers over the years, limiting their effectiveness in addressing community challenges, and called for a review of such measures.
The Forum Chairman also commended the resilience and unity of the people of Southern Kaduna, saying stakeholders worked together to ensure the success of the festival despite initial doubts and challenges.
Also speaking, Chairman of the festival’s Central Planning Committee, Rear Admiral Fergus Bobai (Rtd), said the success of the event demonstrated what could be achieved when people unite behind a common purpose despite obstacles, particularly funding constraints.
He explained that one of the key objectives of the festival was to foster unity and showcase Southern Kaduna’s rich culture, values and achievements to a wider audience.
He added that the committee had strengthened content creation, documentation and communication efforts to project a positive image of the region.
The festival attracted traditional rulers, political leaders, community stakeholders, youth groups, cultural troupes and residents from across Southern Kaduna.
