Use Culture to Build Unity, Uba Sani Tells Communities

BY: ABUBAKAR LABARAN.

Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has called on communities to harness their culture and traditions as vital instruments for fostering unity, peace-building, and communal cohesion.

The Governor made the appeal during the weekend at the annual Khituk Gwong Cultural Festival, held at Fadan Kagoma in Jema’a Local Government Area.

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, he described the festival as a testament to the resilience of the Gwong people in preserving their cultural heritage. He encouraged the youth to view this heritage as a valuable asset from which they can learn.

Governor Sani reaffirmed his administration's commitment to recognizing cultural preservation as a cornerstone for sustainable development. He noted that the state government has been a consistent supporter of traditional institutions, which serve as custodians of peace and societal values.

Earlier, the Kpop Gwong, Col. Paul Zakka Wyoms (retired), stated that the 2026 Khituk Gwong, themed “Celebrating Our Roots, Advancing Our Future and Preserving the Gwong Heritage,” provides a platform to celebrate peace and act as a bridge between generations.

Col. Wyoms noted that the festival is a strong indicator of the harmonious coexistence between the Gwong people and their neighbours. He expressed gratitude to Governor Uba Sani for his administration's support for traditional institutions. He also appealed to the government to restore the original 12 districts within the Chiefdom, which were reduced to two by the previous administration of Malam Nasir El-Rufai, and to rehabilitate the Kafanchan-Kwoi road to improve transportation and boost local businesses.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of the Gwong Development Association, Prof. Ishaya Kato Auta, said the festival embodies the story of the Gwong people's resilience and courage in upholding their traditions over the years.

Prof. Auta noted that their unique culture has been instrumental in defining their identity. He called on all Gwong sons and daughters to continue making sacrifices for the growth of the Chiefdom and to maintain the strong spirit of brotherliness for which they are known.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the occasion and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, observed that the Khituk Gwong celebration and others like it play a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage from one generation to the next. Represented by the Member of the National Assembly for Zangon Kataf/Jaba Constituency, Hon. Amos Gwamna Magaji, he noted that the Gwong people have a strong record of preserving their culture, which has significantly improved mutual respect and understanding among a diverse population.

In a goodwill message, the Senator representing Kaduna South Senatorial District, Barrister Sunday Marshall Katung, described the celebration as a symbolic affirmation of the rich heritage, enduring unity, and progressive aspirations of the Gwong community. Sen. Katung highlighted that the 2026 theme aptly underscores the importance of safeguarding cultural identity while simultaneously embracing growth, development, and innovation.

Also speaking, the Member of the National Assembly for Jema’a/Sanga Constituency, Hon. Daniel Amos, stated that Khituk Gwong is an undeniable testament to the resilience, dignity, and rich cultural heritage that binds the people together.

In his remarks as the chief host, the Executive Chairman of Jema’a Local Government Area, Hon. Peter Tanko Dogara, emphasized that the festival is more than just an event. He described it as a powerful homecoming, a vibrant showcase of identity, and a profound testament to the resilience and rich heritage of the Gwong people.

 Hon. Dogara gave thanks to God for the peace and stability that allowed everyone to gather in Fadan Kagoma, the headquarters of Gwong Chiefdom, to celebrate the people's tireless efforts in reviving and sustaining their cherished traditions.