The recurrent ethno-religious crises that previously undermined the development of Kaduna State has not been experienced in the last three and a half years in the state.
Gov Sani made the declaration on Monday while speaking as the Special Guest of Honour at a Special Interfaith Dialogue organised by the Kaduna State Bureau of Interfaith at the Abba Kyari Banquet Hall, Kaduna State Government House.
The dialogue, themed, “An Overview of the Impactful Three (3) Years of Peaceful Co-Existence and Inclusivity in Kaduna State; Unveiling the Secret,” brought together religious and traditional leaders and other stakeholders to reflect on the state’s peace-building efforts and promote further cooperation and consolidation.
The governor said the achievement was significant and had been acknowledged by religious leaders and community stakeholders who participated in the dialogue.
He said the administration’s commitment to inclusive governance, peace and development has received commendation from religious and traditional leaders, whose renewed pledge of partnership would help consolidate the gains recorded in the state.
He said Kaduna was also addressing the neglect that had previously left some communities feeling excluded from development, noting that government’s investments across the 23 local government areas were guided by need and fairness.
Sani said the administration was investing in roads, healthcare, education, agriculture, skills development and other essential infrastructure, stressing that every citizen deserve equal opportunity irrespective of faith, ethnicity or location.
“Lasting peace requires justice, trust and the assurance that government serves everyone fairly,” the governor said.
He added that development must give practical meaning to peace by ensuring that families could access essential services, pursue their livelihoods and look to the future with confidence, stressing that the success of the state should therefore be measured not only by the stability of communities but also by the dignity and wellbeing of the people.
He expressed appreciation to religious and traditional leaders for their constructive counsel and sustained efforts to promote understanding among communities.
The governor pledged that his administration would continue to work with religious and traditional institutions and other stakeholders to consolidate the peace achieved and address areas where more work was required.
He said the ultimate goal was to build a Kaduna where every citizen feel secure, had access to opportunities and regard the state’s diversity as a strength for a shared future.
