by Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
KADUNA – A “Peace Champion, Unity in Diversity” award had been conferred on Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, at the weekend.
The Award was presented to the governor during a celebration of International Peace Day organized by Global Foundation, in Kaduna, on Sunday.
Speaking during the ceremony, which held at Arewa House on Sunday, Country Director of the Foundation, Rev Joseph John Hayab, said “The Award is in recognition of Uba Sani’s remarkable strides in building peace, dousing tensions, and fostering unity across Kaduna State.”
He also said the celebration of International Peace Day is a day when the world paused to reflect on the values of harmony, dialogue, and unity.
“For us here, in Kaduna State, this year’s celebration is even more significant as we not only mark this global day of peace, but also honor an extraordinary leader whose inclusive governance and unwavering passion for justice have transformed our state.
“As part of this global commemoration, we gather to present the Peace Champion of Unity in Diversity Award to His Excellency, Senator Uba Sani, in recognition of his remarkable strides in building peace, dousing tensions, and fostering unity across Kaduna State.
“Since March 2023, we have witnessed a remarkable transformation in our dear state under the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Senator Uba Sani, the Executive Governor of Kaduna State.
“At a time when our communities were faced with deep-rooted challenges of ethnic feuds, kidnapping, banditry, and heightened tension, Governor Sani embraced a path that was both courageous and uncommon – the path of inclusive governance and dialogue,” he said.
Rev. Hayab stressed that, “Through fairness, justice, and a genuine passion for peace, Governor Uba Sani created an atmosphere of trust and reconciliation.”
According to him, “By giving every group, every faith, and every community a voice at the table of governance, he healed wounds and bridged divides that once threatened our collective progress.
“This bold embrace of dialogue over division and inclusion over exclusion has doused tensions, reduced insecurity, and restored the confidence of citizens in the future of Kaduna State.
“Your Excellency, the Global Peace Foundation Nigeria has followed closely your consistent demonstration of commitment to peace, equity, and unity in diversity, which aligned with our vision of ‘One Family Under God.’
“It is on this premise that, today, we are gathered to bestow upon you the well-deserved recognition as Peace Champion of Unity in Diversity.
“This Award is not just a plaque or a title – it is a testament to your enduring legacy as a leader, who chose peace over conflict, inclusivity over marginalization, and justice over compromise.
“It is also a clarion call to other leaders across Nigeria – that, peace is achievable when leaders are driven by fairness, justice, and a selfless love for their people.
“We celebrate you today, not only as the Governor of Kaduna State, but as a symbol of hope for all Nigerians who yearn for peace and harmony in diversity,” Hayab said.
On behalf of the Global Peace Foundation Nigeria, Hayab also congratulated Uba Sani and reaffirmed the commitment to continue working hand-in-hand with his administration, traditional institutions, religious leaders, and communities “in sustaining this enviable peace model.”
“Together, let us continue to strengthen unity in diversity – because it is only in unity that true development, prosperity, and lasting peace can thrive. Thank you, and God bless Kaduna State,” he added.
Responding, Governor Uba Sani, represented by Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs ministry, Suleiman Shuiabu, said they’ve confronted many challenges arising from diversity, competing interests, and the scars of past conflicts in Kaduna State.
He, however, said that rather than allow these challenges to divide them, they have chosen dialogue over division, collaboration over confrontation, and reconciliation over recrimination.
“This is the spirit that birthed the Kaduna Peace Model – a participatory approach that places communities at the centre of peace-building.
“Our model is anchored on inclusiveness, justice, and shared responsibility. It brings together traditional and religious leaders, women and youth groups, civil society, security agencies, and development partners.
“Together, we are weaving a new narrative for Kaduna State – one of tolerance, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence,” he said.