The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the northern states has called for the nationwide adoption of the Kaduna peace model as a strategic approach to promoting national unity and fostering religious harmony across the country.
The call was made by Rev. John Joseph Hayab, Chairman of Northern CAN, during the Kaduna Inter-Religious Dialogue on Peace, Unity, and Security Committee Meeting held on Monday. The event marked the two-year anniversary of Governor Uba Sani's administration and was organized by the Kaduna State Bureau of Interfaith.
Hayab, who also serves as co-chairman of the committee, commended the Kaduna State Government for implementing inclusive policies and promoting a culture of religious tolerance, describing the progress made as "a silent transformation" worthy of national attention.
"Insecurity, mutual suspicion, and religious tension once defined Kaduna's image. But today, we are witnessing significant progress under Governor Uba Sani, who has shown deliberate commitment to healing and inclusiveness," he said.
According to Hayab, incidents of communal clashes and banditry in the state have drastically reduced due to the administration's combination of kinetic and non-kinetic approaches, alongside its policy of fair engagement with all communities.
The CAN chairman particularly praised Governor Sani's symbolic participation in Christian events, including two consecutive Christmas Carol services, noting that such gestures have gone a long way in restoring trust and reinforcing the spirit of belonging among the Christian community.
"Those actions, though symbolic, carried deep meaning. They reflected respect, recognition, and an intentional approach to unity. Today, Muslim and Christian youths in the state interact freely, while interfaith dialogue among religious leaders has gained stronger footing," he stated.
Hayab highlighted that Christian and Muslim mothers are no longer united by grief over the loss of innocent children to senseless violence, noting that the government's response to victims has become more empathetic and reflective of shared humanity.
While acknowledging the progress made, the CAN chairman stressed that the journey to peace and genuine reconciliation remains ongoing and urged the state government to consolidate its gains through sustained political will and fair governance.
"Peacebuilding is not an event; it is a continuous process. Kaduna has shown what is possible when leadership is guided by compassion and justice. We urge the Federal Government to understudy this model and replicate it in other parts of the country," Hayab added.
He further called on religious leaders, traditional institutions, and civil society to remain committed to promoting peaceful coexistence and interfaith dialogue, emphasizing that Nigeria's stability rests on collective effort and shared responsibility.
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