....Deputy Gov. says diversity is source of enrichment, progress
By Editor
Southern Kaduna is honouring the former Military Administrator of old Rivers State, Major-General Zamani Lekwot (retd), former Chief of Defence State, General Martin Luther Agwai (retd), the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Dr Matthew Hassan Kukah, former Governor of Kaduna State, Ahmed Makarfi, and others for the enormous impact they made as past and present leaders in the zone, which had brought about development, peace, unity, good governance, sense of belonging and cooperation in the region.
The region is also honouring the late Governor of Kaduna State, Ibrahim Yakowa who died in a helicopter crash in December 2013 posthumous award will be given to
The former leaders of the region will be honored at the maiden Southern Kaduna Festival which which commenced yesterday in Kafanchan, Kaduna,
In his welcome address, Chairman Central Planning Committee of the festival, Rear Admiral Ferguson Bobai (rtd) said, the festival is a cornucopia of delightful experiences, beckoning on people to indulge in its irresistible splendor.
“From colloquium that will stimulate your ambiance, to enchanting musical performances that will transport you to another realm, SKFEST 2023 promises to be a tapestry of unforgettable memories.”
He said the festival which is aimed at showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Southern Kaduna through traditional dances, captivating beauty pageant, mouthwatering culinary delights. sports, fascinating game of archery and traditional wrestling, will unite the people of the region.
In her remarks, Kaduna State Deputy Governor, Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe urged people to consider diversity of culture in the region as strength and source of enrichment that has the power to propel Kaduna state and Nigeria towards a brighter and more prosperous future.
The Deputy Governor who declared the 3-day festival open at the Kafanchan Township Stadium on Thursday said, the festival is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Southern Kaduna and promote intercultural exchange among the people of Southern Kaduna, and between Southern Kaduna and other cultural groups in Kaduna and Nigeria at large.
Dr Balarabe who was represented by the Administrator of Kafanchan Municipal Authority, Mrs Phoebe Sukai Yayi said, no community or region can exist in isolation, adding that, presently, there are myriad factors that bind people across the globe, with humanity serving as the ultimate common thread.
She said, Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani believes that all lives matter, and this should be their standpoint in Southern Kaduna. “We must respect each other in the region and those outside of it, regardless of differences in backgrounds.
“In a world that often emphasizes our differences, events such as this provide us with an invaluable opportunity to recognize and celebrate our shared humanity. I would like to take this moment to encourage all participants, spectators, and stakeholders present to embrace the spirit of unity and respect for one another.
“Let us recognize that diversity is not a challenge but a strength, a source of enrichment that has the power to propel us towards a brighter and more prosperous future. This is why I find the theme of this year's celebration, "Experience Unity, Celebrate Cultures," very appropriate. It will serve as a testament to the rich diversity and harmonious coexistence in Southern Kaduna.
“The goals of this festival are not merely confined to the realms of entertainment and sports but extend far beyond, aiming to foster and promote inter-relations and exchanges between the people of Southern Kaduna and other cultural groups within the state and across Nigeria. This pursuit of inclusivity is paramount, given the large number of ethnic groups in this area. The festival will also provide us with the opportunity to tell our story, explaining where we come from and where we hope to go.
“As we revel in the festivities and partake in the various activities, let us keep in mind the collective interests of Southern Kaduna. Our strength lies in our ability to come together, appreciate our differences, and work towards a shared vision of progress and prosperity,” she said.
The festival which will close on Saturday, is expected to have Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, his Bayelsa State counterpart, Senator Douye Diri, Speaker House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, Senator Sunday Marshal Katung, Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa and other dignitaries in attendance.
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