By Aminu Dalhatu
The Zamfara State Government, in collaboration with the National Orientation Agency (NOA) and with support from the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has organised a two day orientation workshop for Imams and pastors on the Faith for Life initiative.
The workshop, which was flagged off in Gusau, was organised by the state Ministries of Information and Culture, and Religious Affairs, in collaboration with NOA with the support from UNICEF.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Alhaji Suleiman Adamu Gummi, called on religious leaders to intensify efforts to sensitise their followers on the importance of family, shared responsibilities and the need to promote a conducive family environment.
He described religious leaders as critical stakeholders in promoting the key messages of the Faith because of their influence and close relationship with communities.
Gummi explained that Imams and pastors were selected from the 14 local government areas of the state through the Ministry of Religious Affairs and the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to participate in the orientation.
He said the engagement was designed to equip religious leaders with the knowledge and guidance needed to promote the Faith for Life initiative and strengthen family values across the state.
Alhaji Sulaiman Adamu Gummi also urged participants to take the messages of the workshop to their respective communities and use their positions to promote child health, routine immunisation among others.
The commissioner reaffirmed his ministry’s commitment, under the administration of Governor Dauda Lawal, to supporting programmes aimed at improving the well-being of residents and promoting a peaceful and conducive environment for all.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Zamfara State Council of Chiefs and Emir of Anka, Alhaji Muhammad Attahiru Ahmad, pledged the continued support of traditional rulers for government programmes and policies.
The emir, who was represented by the Magajin Rafin Anka, Alhaji Ahmed S. Anka, described traditional rulers as important partners in community development because of their close relationship with the people at the grassroots.
He noted that traditional institutions play a significant role in mobilising communities, promoting public awareness and encouraging the acceptance of government policies and programmes.
The emir therefore called for sustained collaboration between the government, religious leaders and traditional institutions to ensure the successful implementation of initiatives aimed at improving the lives of citizens.
Editing By Yusuf Zubairu
