Kaduna State Deputy Governor, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, has identified cultural preservation as a fundamental pillar for fostering peace and sustainable growth within the state.
Dr. Balarabe made these remarks on Saturday during the 2026 Khituk Gwong cultural festival held in Kagoma, Jema’a Local Government Area.
She emphasized that the state government remains steadfast in its support for traditional institutions, recognizing them as essential custodians of peace and societal values.
The Deputy Governor praised the Gwong people for their unwavering commitment to hosting the annual festival, noting that the event serves as a vital bridge between generations.
“The Gwong festival is more than just a celebration; it is a platform for cultural exchange, an avenue for youth engagement, and a rallying point for communal harmony,” she stated.
She reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to initiatives that promote cultural sustainability and unity across Kaduna’s diverse communities.
The Kpop Gwong, Paul Wyom, lauded the administration of Governor Uba Sani for the significant improvements in security across the state, which he noted has allowed communal events like the festival to thrive.
However, the traditional ruler used the occasion to advocate for further development in the region, specifically calling for the rehabilitation of the Kafanchan-Kwoi road.
He highlighted that the project is essential to boosting local economic activities and improving connectivity in the area.
The 2026 festival, held under the theme “Celebrating Our Roots, Advancing Our Future and Preserving the Gwong Heritage,” drew crowds from across the region to celebrate the unique traditions and resilience of the Gwong people.
