There was jubilation in Southern Kaduna over the appointment of their sons, Bishop Matthew Kukah, the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Prof. Qurix Williams Barnabas and Dr. Haruna Abubakar Shehu into various positions by President Bola Tinubu.
The jubilation was led by the Northern Christian Youth Professionals (NCYP) who in a statement signed by its Chairman, Isaac Abrak said it joins others across the Southern Kaduna region to celebrate following the appointments of Bishop Matthew Kukah, the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, Kaduna State, and Prof. Qurix Williams Barnabas as Vice-Chancellor of the same institution, alongside the appointment of Dr. Haruna Abubakar Shehu as the Chief Medical Director of the newly established Federal Medical Centre, Kafanchan, Kaduna State.
Abrak said these appointments, alongside the establishment of these two critical institutions, are a clear demonstration of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to fairness, equity, and the inclusive distribution of the dividends of democracy, even in areas where he did not receive massive electoral support.
Abrak said: “Here, the President has displayed the exceptional qualities of a leader with a big heart. The NCYP sees this as a vindication of our decision to support and campaign for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Muslim-Muslim ticket during the 2023 general elections—despite opposition from many within our faith. Today, we stand proud as Southern Kaduna, a predominantly Christian region, rejoices over these landmark achievements brought about by President Tinubu’s visionary leadership.
“We express our profound gratitude to God for granting us the foresight to recognize that the Tinubu/Shettima ticket was the right leadership Nigeria needed at such a critical time. Furthermore, we thank the Almighty for giving us the strength to stand firm in our convictions, even when others in our faith did not share this vision. The joy in Southern Kaduna is rippling across Kaduna State and beyond, reaching neighboring states such as Nasarawa, Plateau, and Benue, reinforcing the growing support for President Tinubu across our region.
“As staunch supporters of the President, we use this moment of celebration to assure Mr. President that Southern Kaduna stands firmly with him. The overwhelming joy and acceptance of his leadership in our region are translating into unwavering political support. The force of this movement continues to expand, influencing more states within our region.
“We also extend our deep appreciation to Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, for his support in ensuring the realization of these institutions. Special recognition goes to Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, a distinguished leader of Southern Kaduna, as well as Hon. Amos Gwamna and all members of the National Assembly who played a pivotal role in advocating for the establishment of these institutions. Their dedication has brought joy, growth, and development to the people of Southern Kaduna.
“As a group that upholds the principle of religious tolerance, we urge the people of Southern Kaduna both Christians and Muslims alike, to continue to respect each other’s religions in a spirit of mutual tolerance. Through peaceful coexistence, the benefits of these newly established institutions will be fully realized, fostering progress and unity in our region.”
