The Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, has called on Nigerians to rise above divisive sentiments and embrace unity through faith and mutual understanding, describing women as vital agents of peace, progress, and nation-building.
Speaking at the 31st Annual National Convention of the Women Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (WOWICAN), held at the HEKAN Cathedral, Katsina Road, Kaduna, Dr. Balarabe commended the group’s efforts at promoting inter-communal harmony and empowering women across the country.
Representing Governor Uba Sani, the Deputy Governor lauded WOWICAN’s chosen theme, “Bridging the Cultural Divides Among Us Through Christ,” as timely and reflective of the state’s ongoing commitment to inclusiveness and peaceful coexistence.
“This theme challenges us to rise above barriers that separate us and to embrace the unity that Christ commands,” she said. “Under Governor Uba Sani’s leadership, Kaduna has prioritised women’s empowerment and girl-child education through initiatives like the Women Economic Empowerment Fund and the Support to Women in Agriculture and Livelihoods Project.”
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Dr. Balarabe emphasised that women’s empowerment is not about competing with men, but about complementing them in nurturing families, strengthening communities, and shaping society. “When women are empowered, families prosper. When families prosper, communities thrive, and when communities thrive, the nation advances,” she noted.
She also urged religious leaders and followers to sustain dialogue and tolerance, stressing that peace in Kaduna requires continuous effort from all faith communities. “Let us continue to pray for our leaders, that God grants them wisdom and compassion to lead with justice and fairness,” she added.
National Chairperson of WOWICAN, Mrs. Elizabeth Ayobami Akin Adewo, said the annual convention, which has held consistently for 31 years, brings women together in worship, reflection, and unity across cultures. She described the gathering as a platform to “celebrate God’s faithfulness and foster national harmony through shared Christian values.”
