Gov. Abba Yusuf of Kano State has urged residents of the state to maintain peace, unity and mutual respect ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He stated this in an address to mark the 66th Independence Anniversary, on Thursday in Kano.
Yusuf charged political actors, community leaders and citizens to eschew violence, division, intolerance and criminality, stressing that peace and security are essential for sustainable development.
He urged the citizens to pray for a peaceful, free, fair and credible election, while exercising their civic responsibilities.
“Let us shun violence and anything that may threaten the peace and stability of our dear state,” he said.
According to Yusuf, nation building requires unity, sacrifice and collective responsibility.
He stressed that Nigerians should turn the country’s diversity of languages, cultures, traditions and faiths into strength through mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.
The governor also called on the citizens to be law abiding, protect public property, reject violence and criminality, pay taxes and contribute to the peace and development of their communities.
Yusuf reiterated his administration’s commitment to work with the Federal Government, local government councils, traditional and religious leaders and other stakeholders in the service of the people.
“An environment of peace and stability will enable every citizen to contribute meaningfully to the development of the state.”
The governor assured that the state government would focus on consolidating the achievements in education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, water supply, security and human capital development.