The governor spoke at a lecture organised by the Nigerian
Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) in Lagos on Tuesday.

Sani’s declaration comes a few weeks after US President
Donald Trump redesignated Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” for
alleged persecution of Christians.

The US also threatened military action against the bandits
and terrorists carrying out the alleged persecution.

Kaduna had been one of the major flashpoints of banditry in
the north-west.

Sani, who became the Kaduna governor in May 2023, said his
administration curbed insecurity in the state through inclusive governance and
the engagement of traditional rulers.

He added that his administration is “sustaining peace and
unity by constituting an Interfaith Council”, which was “established to promote
dialogue, mutual understanding, and proactive engagement across religious and
ethnic divides”.

“Meeting quarterly, the council provides a structured
platform for resolving grievances, fostering trust, and building lasting
relationships among the state’s diverse communities,” the governor said.

“This deliberate and inclusive approach has significantly
deepened safety and security in Kaduna State, ensuring that issues are
addressed through dialogue rather than conflict. As a testament to its
effectiveness, Kaduna has not experienced any ethno-religious crisis in the
last two and a half years.

“This initiative reflects my administration’s unwavering
commitment to peaceful coexistence, social cohesion, and the collective
progress of all residents of Kaduna State.”

The governor also added that “our peace effort” is
underscored by the UK government lifting its travel restriction on Kaduna and
upgrading the state from red to amber on its travel advisory.