Defence Minister Honoured at Southern Kaduna Festival for Leadership, Peacebuilding Efforts

By Abubakar Labaran

The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd.) OFR, has received an Award of Honour and Recognition at the Southern Kaduna Festival (SKFEST) 2026 held over the weekend in Kafanchan, Kaduna State.

The award celebrates his exemplary leadership, steadfast dedication to national service, and contributions to peace, unity, and security in Nigeria.

This year’s festival, themed "Embrace Diversity, Build Bridges," brought together key stakeholders, including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, ministry directors, and other distinguished guests.

Speaking after receiving the award, General Musa reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Government and security agencies to safeguarding Nigeria’s unity, peace, and stability. He stressed that sustainable peace cannot be achieved unless all citizens play their role in promoting national unity and development.

He emphasised the importance of integrity, patriotism, and collective responsibility in nation-building, assuring Nigerians that the government would continue working tirelessly to keep the country secure and prosperous.

Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Southern Kaduna Elders’ Forum, Mr. Dare Akau, called on the government to restore the status, dignity, and powers of traditional rulers, arguing that stronger traditional institutions would enhance security, peace, and development across communities.

Akau noted that traditional rulers remain the first line of security because they are closest to the people and possess deep knowledge of their communities.

“One of the major issues before us today is the role of our traditional rulers. They remain a vital component of community security and development because they understand the realities on the ground,” Akau said.

He lamented that certain policies and administrative practices had weakened traditional institutions over the years and urged the government to restore them to their rightful place within the governance and security architecture of the state.

According to him, empowering traditional rulers would complement government efforts in tackling insecurity and fostering peaceful coexistence across Southern Kaduna and beyond.

He also commended the resilience of the people of Southern Kaduna and the festival organisers, noting that despite initial doubts and challenges, the event was successfully held.

In his remarks, the Executive Governor of Kaduna State, Dr. Senator Uba Sani, CON, urged citizens to remain dedicated to activities and initiatives that promote peaceful coexistence. Represented by the Deputy Speaker of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, Hon. Barrister Henry Danjuma Magaji, the Governor acknowledged that his administration is committed to fostering peace, unity, and stability through prudent policies and programmes.

He recognised that Kaduna State, particularly Southern Kaduna, has previously endured numerous security threats resulting in displacement and economic setbacks. However, he noted that through the collective efforts of stakeholders including religious leaders, traditional rulers, security agencies, and relevant authorities the state is now experiencing relative peace.

The Governor commended citizens for their tireless efforts in maintaining peace, which now allows residents to sleep safely at night. He appealed for renewed emphasis on peacebuilding, especially as the rainy season increases agricultural activity and interactions between farmers and Fulani herders.

He further praised the organisers for their dedication and remarkable efforts in bringing the community together to foster unity and peaceful coexistence.