Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has handed over 39 vehicles to the Jama'atu Nasril Islam (JNI), the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and numerous Islamic sects and Christian denominations. The initiative is designed to bolster their grassroots advocacy for harmonious coexistence and to support the delivery of credible, peaceful elections in Kaduna State and throughout Nigeria.
Represented by the Director General of Interfaith, Malam Tahir Umar Tahir, the Governor cautioned that certain politicians staring at imminent defeat are plotting to undermine public order ahead of, during, and after upcoming electoral cycles.
What led to the vehicle distribution?
Recalling prior engagements, Malam Tahir noted that during a national seminar and award ceremony held in August, the First Aid Group of Fityanul Islam had appealed for six buses to support their peace promotion initiatives.
Although the Governor initially pledged four buses to that specific group—dividing them equally between the national leadership and the Kaduna State branch—the scope of the intervention was subsequently broadened.
“The Governor also promised that the largesse will be extended to the First Aid Groups of other Islamic sects and the Boys Brigade of the Christian faith,” Malam Tahir stated.
He further explained that leadership figures within the Kaduna State chapters of both JNI and CAN were penciled in for Hummer buses, while additional vehicles were allocated to various Islamic sects and Christian blocs to facilitate their community outreach and religious duties.
Broadening religious inclusion in Kaduna
Malam Tahir assured faith leaders that Christian denominations and Islamic groups that missed out on the current batch of donations would be captured in subsequent phases.
According to the Director General, Governor Uba Sani has consistently engaged different religious communities since taking office over three years ago. He highlighted that the administration collaborates closely with clerics to ensure equitable distribution of democratic dividends, pointing to initiatives like free fertilizer distribution and inclusive political appointments.
Drawing from scriptures, Malam Tahir appealed to the religious leaders for continuous prayers for the administration, urging them to support the Governor's political future.
“In Christianity, believers are commanded to pray for their leaders. We are asking for your prayers. We are pleading to you to pray for the Governor’s re- election because he will surpass the good things that he is doing in his second term,” he remarked.
In their separate remarks, representatives of the Kaduna State chapters of JNI and CAN expressed gratitude for the automotive support, pledging to sustain prayers for enduring peace, security, and development across the state.