Governor Uba Sani’s second consecutive visit to the ECWA Church Narayi on Sunday, December 22, 2024, for the annual Christmas Carol marks a significant milestone in fostering unity and interfaith understanding in Kaduna state. His maiden visit in 2023, widely celebrated as a bold move to promote tolerance and peaceful coexistence, set the tone for this year’s symbolic event. Accompanied by a high powered delegation, the governor once again demonstrated his commitment to bridging divides and strengthening communal bonds.
The governor’s presence at this cherished Christian celebration was not just a replay of his previous visit but a testament to his genuine commitment to the principles of reconciliation and respect for all religions. In a state often marked by ethnic and religious tensions, this gesture goes a long way in dispelling doubts about the authenticity of his interfaith outreach efforts. Governor Sani’s consistency underscores a vision for Kaduna that thrives on inclusivity and shared humanity.
Last year’s visit garnered widespread acclaim. I wrote an article captioned “Gov. Uba Sani’s surprised Christmas Carol visit; in notable national dailies like Blueprint and Daily Trust. It was described as a “symbol of unity, reconciliation, tolerance, peace, and interfaith dialogue.” This year’s return affirms that his approach to leadership is not performative but deeply rooted in a vision of sustained dialogue and mutual respect.
Governor Sani was joined this year by Hon. Barr. Yusuf Hamisu Mairago, his trusted ally who accompanied him last year, alongside a new entourage of Southern Kaduna leaders. Among them were Mr. Jerry Adams, the Executive Chairman of Kaduna Inland Revenue Services (KADIRS), and Barr. James Kanyip, the recently appointed Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs. Their presence reflected a deliberate attempt to showcase diversity within the leadership circle and foster representation from various regions of Kaduna.
The Christmas Carol itself, a cherished tradition among Christians, provided a spiritual and cultural backdrop for the governor’s outreach. Hymns of joy, prayers for peace, and messages of goodwill filled the church, creating an atmosphere of hope and reflection. Governor Sani’s participation in the programme highlighted his recognition of the importance of religious traditions in shaping societal values and fostering harmony.
Governor Uba Sani during his address to the congregation, emphasised the shared values of love, compassion, and forgiveness that underpin both Christianity and Islam. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting the rights of all citizens, regardless of their religious affiliation. “We are one people, bound by our shared humanity,” he declared, drawing applause from the audience.
Impressively, the church leadership expressed gratitude for the governor’s presence, describing it as a gesture of goodwill that would resonate for years to come. The officiating pastor, noted that Governor Sani’s visit reinforced the message of Christmas as a season of love and reconciliation. We see in you a leader who values peace and cherishes diversity, he said, offering prayers for the governor’s continued wisdom and strength is of great importance because of his impartial treatment in governance.
This year’s visit, much like the previous one, has sparked conversations across Kaduna about the importance of interfaith dialogue in building a cohesive society. Social media platforms buzzed with praise for the governor’s consistency and calls for other leaders to emulate his approach to inclusive governance.
Critics who initially dismissed last year’s visit as mere political theatrics now find themselves reconsidering their stance. Governor Sani’s unwavering commitment to this tradition suggests that his actions are driven by a genuine desire to foster unity rather than opportunism.
As the Christmas season unfolds, the governor’s visit serves as a reminder of the values that bind us together – kindness, understanding, and a commitment to the common good. It sets a powerful precedent for future leaders, emphasising the importance of humility and openness in leadership.
Governor Uba Sani’s second Christmas Carol visit is more than a political gesture; it is a declaration of hope for a Kaduna state where diversity is celebrated and differences are embraced. His actions continue to inspire confidence in his vision for a peaceful and prosperous society.
In a time when the world is grappling with division and discord, such acts of unity serve as a beacon of hope. For Governor Sani, the Christmas Carol visit is not just an event it is a tradition in the making, a legacy of peace that will outlast his tenure in office.
As the congregation dispersed with hearts uplifted and spirits renewed, one message was clear: Governor Uba Sani’s leadership is guided by a commitment to unity, a principle that will remain etched in the history of Kaduna state.
