Barbara Bako, Abuja.
The Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has called on Nigerians to embrace unity, peaceful coexistence and youth empowerment as critical pillars for sustainable development and national progress.
Speaking after receiving the Southern Kaduna Grand Commander (SKGC) Award at the Southern Kaduna Festival (SKFEST) 2026 in Kafanchan, Kaduna State, Musa described the recognition as a humbling honour and a reflection of the enduring bond between him and his people.
He said the future of Southern Kaduna and Nigeria must be built on inclusion, mutual respect and a shared commitment to the common good, stressing that peace remains the foundation for economic growth and social development.
“The future we seek cannot be built on division, mistrust, or conflict. It must be built on unity, understanding, inclusion and a shared commitment to the common good,” he said.
Musa noted that the award was not a personal achievement but a tribute to the collective contributions of Southern Kaduna people, including farmers, teachers, healthcare workers, entrepreneurs, security personnel, traditional rulers and community volunteers.
He commended the region’s sons and daughters who have distinguished themselves in public service, academia, business, science, technology, diplomacy and sports, saying their accomplishments continue to inspire younger generations.
The minister also lauded the Southern Kaduna Festival as an important platform for preserving cultural heritage, strengthening community bonds and promoting social integration.
According to him, the festival represents more than cultural displays and celebrations, serving as a reminder of the values and traditions that unite the people.
Addressing young people, Musa urged them to embrace education, skills acquisition, innovation and entrepreneurship while rejecting violence, criminality, extremism and substance abuse.
“You represent the future of Southern Kaduna and indeed the future of Nigeria. Invest in education. Develop skills. Embrace entrepreneurship. Harness technology. Believe in your abilities,” he said.
He added that governments, traditional institutions, religious organisations, community leaders and the private sector must work together to create opportunities that enable young people to realise their full potential.
Reaffirming his commitment to national security, Musa said the Federal Government, in collaboration with the Armed Forces and other security agencies, remains determined to protect the country’s territorial integrity and create a safe environment for citizens.
He described security as the bedrock of economic growth, investment, education, healthcare and national development, noting that efforts were ongoing to address security challenges across the country.
The minister also acknowledged the contributions of traditional rulers, religious leaders, women groups, youth organisations and development partners in promoting peace and social cohesion within communities.
Musa pledged to continue serving the nation with integrity, excellence and patriotism, describing the award as both a recognition of past efforts and a challenge to do more in service to the people.
He thanked the people of Southern Kaduna and the organisers of SKFEST 2026 for the honour and expressed optimism that the festival would continue to grow as a symbol of cultural pride, unity and collective progress.
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