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By Michael Kato Achigaba
For decades, Kaduna State has grappled with episodes of religious intolerance and disharmony that have left deep scars on its social fabric. From the violent clashes in the 1980s and 1990s, including the infamous Zangon Kataf crisis, to more recent conflicts in the 2000s and 2010s driven by ethno-religious tensions, Kaduna has witnessed bloodshed that claimed thousands of lives, displaced communities and eroded trust between Christians and Muslims. These incidents not only fractured local unity but also drew international scrutiny, particularly in light of recent broader allegations of Christian genocide in Nigeria, particularly by the United States of America, which declare Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern (CPC).
Against this backdrop, the emergence of Governor Uba Sani in May 2023 marked a pivotal shift toward reconciliation and inclusive governance. His administration’s deliberate efforts to bridge divides culminated in symbolic events like the 2025 Christmas Carol, organized by the Kaduna State Government in collaboration with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Kaduna State Chapter. This gathering not only celebrated the festive season but also underscored Governor Uba Sani’s commitment to fostering religious harmony and tolerance throughout the state.
Since assuming office, Governor Sani has prioritized unity as one of the cornerstones of his governance. Admittedly, Sani inherited a state reeling from years of mutual suspicion and division occasioned by religious differences. He, however, came with an approach rooted in principles of fairness, equity, inclusiveness, and justice—values he has consistently emphasized in his public addresses.
At the 2025 Christmas Carol, Governor Sani, again, sang the same tune. Reflecting on the significance of the event, he posted on his official Facebook Page: “I was honoured to join the Christian community in Kaduna State at the 2025 Christmas Carol. The occasion was a solemn and uplifting celebration, reaffirming the timeless values of love, sacrifice, compassion, and unity that define the Christmas season and speak powerfully to our shared humanity. It was a moment that reminded us of what binds us together as one people.”
This event brought together diverse faith leaders, government officials and citizens in a display of interfaith solidarity. Notably, Islamic leaders were in attendance, a gesture that highlighted the administration’s push for cross-faith dialogue. Governor Uba Sani commended these leaders for their role in promoting peace, noting in his remarks: “I deeply appreciate our religious leaders for their prayers and steadfast commitment to peace, which continue to strengthen stability and social cohesion across Kaduna State.”
By acknowledging both Christian and Muslim figures, Governor Uba Sani reinforced his vision of Kaduna as a unified entity, where religious differences are not barriers but bridges to progress.
Sani’s leadership has offered a refreshing narrative: one of deliberate reconciliation. He has invested in community engagement programs, security reforms, and economic development to address root causes of discord. As he stated at the carol: “Kaduna State is strongest when we stand together across faiths and communities. On this meaningful night, I reiterated my deliberate and unwavering commitment to restoring Kaduna to its rightful glory: a place where Christians and Muslims see one another as one people, live together in peace, celebrate together in harmony, and truly become their brothers’ and sisters’ keepers.”
The governor’s administration has translated rhetoric into action through a series of inclusive policies. Since May 2023, his government has focused on equitable development across the state’s diverse zones. Investments in infrastructure have been widespread, with extensive road construction and rehabilitation in both urban centers like Kaduna city and rural areas in southern Kaduna, a predominantly Christian region that has historically felt marginalized. Healthcare reforms have included upgrading facilities and ensuring access for all, regardless of faith. In agriculture, which employs a large portion of the population, Sani has promoted initiatives that benefit mixed communities, fostering economic interdependence. Education and social welfare programs have similarly emphasized inclusivity, with scholarships and support systems designed to uplift vulnerable groups.
“Our administration remains firmly guided by the principles of inclusive governance, fairness, and justice, ensuring that no one is left behind. As a listening and responsive government, we have consistently translated citizen engagement into concrete action. From extensive road construction and rehabilitation across both urban and rural communities, to historic investments in healthcare, agriculture, transportation, education, and social welfare, our focus remains clear and resolute: development that is visible, impactful, and shared by all,” he declared.
The 2025 Christmas Carol turned out to be a platform for Christian leaders to publicly declare their opinion about Governor Uba Sani’s approach to governance in Kaduna State. Bishop Ademola Tinuoye, Chairman of the Pentecostal Bishops’ Forum (PBF), praised the governor for fulfilling his promises. Recalling the governor’s commitments upon taking office, Tinuoye said: “The governor promised four major things when he assumed office. He promised us fairness; that if there is fairness, there will be no crisis. We can see fairness. You have been fair in all your dealings and style of leadership. You promised us equity. We have seen equity in all aspects of your governance. You promised us inclusiveness. We can see that everyone is being carried along.”
Bishop Tinuoye added that the people of Kaduna are rejoicing under Sani’s rule, invoking biblical wisdom: “The word of the Lord says, ‘when the righteous rules, the people will rejoice.’” He further commended Governor Sani for delivering on justice and supporting the carol event. “Last year, you promised that you were going to support the Christmas carol. Here we are… We love you because you first love us. May the Lord be with you in the name of Jesus. The church in Kaduna will continue to pray for you, and you need not fear where there is no fear.”
Reverend Amos Kiri, President of the United Church of Christ, echoed the same sentiments, emphasizing the symbolism of Sani’s presence: “We praise the governor for taking time with your entire cabinet to come here and celebrate with us. This is reassuring and it is a demonstration of love, peace and inclusivity in governance.”
Kiri highlighted the historical significance, noting, “Over the years, as Christians in Kaduna State, we have not had the privilege to have our own governor come in the midst of a Christian program as you have demonstrated.” He appreciated the interfaith aspect: “The presence of adherents of other faiths at the event has made this year’s edition an interfaith carol celebration. We are really, really grateful.”
Kiri believed that sustaining this style would ensure peace. “If the governor continues with his current leadership style, Kaduna State will remain peaceful. Nigeria will enjoy progress and growth. The world will be at peace, just as our Lord Jesus Christ came to bring peace and show love.”
Reverend Tunde Bolanta, Apostolic Overseer of Restoration Ministries Worldwide, drew from personal nostalgia to laud Governor Uba Sani’s bridge-building efforts. As a “Kaduna Boy” from Tudun Nupawa, Bolanta reminisced about harmonious times. “For those of us who grew up in Kaduna in the 60s and 70s. We know that what Sani is doing is bringing back the old times. I remember during Sallah, we go to our Muslim brothers, and we eat all the meat. During Christmas too, our homes are filled, and we eat the same meat.”
“Senator Uba Sani, we celebrate you. You are showing us the spirit of Christmas. And I hope that the whole nation is paying attention to our governor. Our governor is showing the way to the future. He is showing the way for the whole of Nigeria. He is showing bridge building. “Governor Sani is executing projects across the board in Kaduna State. He is a governor for all and we need to continue to pray for him.”
These are not words money can buy. They gush out straight from sincere and appreciative hearts. For the first time in many years in Kaduna State, Christian leaders are pouring encomiums on their governor, who is a Muslim by faith. It speaks volumes.
The governor’s response was one of humility: “I was equally encouraged by the thoughtful words of our esteemed clergymen, who commended our administration’s inclusive leadership and deliberate efforts to sustain peace, security, and unity. Their assurance of unwavering support and continued prayers is both humbling and inspiring.”
Looking ahead, Governor Sani’s vision extends beyond Kaduna, offering a model for Nigeria amid global watchful eyes. In his closing remarks at the carol, he urged: “As we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, I urge all citizens to embody the true spirit of Christmas by becoming ambassadors of peace, love, and hope. Let us work together to build a Kaduna State where faith builds bridges, diversity fuels progress, and unity secures our shared future.” This is the world Sani is striving daily to make Kaduna State. This is something excitingly refreshing and reassuring.
• Achigaba, an essayist and public affairs commentator, writes from Kaduna, Kaduna State
