The Northern Christian Youth Professionals (NCYP) has endorsed Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani’s nomination of former Executive Chairman of the Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS), Mr. Jerry Adams, as his running mate for the 2027 governorship election, describing the decision as a bold step toward strengthening religious harmony, inclusion and lasting peace in the state.
In a statement jointly signed by the organisation’s National Chairman, Isaac Abrak, and Kaduna State Coordinator, Daniel John, the group said the choice of Adams, a Christian, reflects Governor Uba Sani’s commitment to fairness, competence and inclusive governance rather than political expediency.
The endorsement follows widespread public debate over the governor’s decision to replace his current deputy with Adams, a development that has emerged as one of the major political talking points ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Kaduna State.
According to the NCYP, the nomination demonstrates that leadership should transcend religious and sectional considerations, while reassuring all segments of Kaduna’s diverse population of equitable representation in government.
The group said the decision would help rebuild trust among communities affected by years of ethno-religious conflict and reinforce ongoing efforts to foster peaceful coexistence across the state.
“Governor Uba Sani did not make this decision for personal political gain but in the overall interest of Kaduna State. It is a step towards restoring mutual trust, strengthening peaceful coexistence and creating an environment where businesses can flourish, families can prosper and citizens can pursue their aspirations without fear,” the statement said.
NCYP recalled that Kaduna has witnessed repeated episodes of religious violence, communal clashes, banditry, kidnappings and other security challenges that claimed lives, displaced residents and deepened mistrust between Christian and Muslim communities.
The organisation, however, said the present administration has adopted a governance approach centred on dialogue, reconciliation and stakeholder engagement, which it believes has contributed to improved stability across many parts of the state.
It cited the government’s Peace and Reconciliation Initiative, involving Christian and Muslim leaders as well as traditional institutions, as one of the key interventions promoting social cohesion and reducing tensions.
According to the group, Kaduna’s reconciliation model is increasingly being viewed as a framework that could be replicated in other states facing similar security and communal challenges.
On the choice of Adams, NCYP described him as a seasoned administrator with a track record of integrity and effective public service.
It noted that during his tenure as Chairman of KADIRS, Adams spearheaded institutional reforms that strengthened the state’s internally generated revenue, while his earlier career with the Nigerian Bottling Company equipped him with extensive management experience and the ability to work across ethnic and religious divides.
The organisation further argued that while Governor Uba Sani’s Muslim-Muslim ticket in the 2023 election reflected the prevailing political realities at the time, the decision to nominate a Christian running mate for 2027 signals a deliberate effort to broaden inclusion and strengthen confidence among Kaduna’s diverse religious communities.
It urged political leaders, traditional rulers, religious organisations and residents to support what it described as a courageous decision capable of deepening unity and advancing sustainable development.
While acknowledging criticisms from some quarters, the group maintained that the nomination should be viewed beyond partisan politics and recognised as an investment in lasting peace and social stability.
NCYP also reaffirmed its support for Governor Uba Sani’s administration and pledged to mobilise support for his re-election bid in 2027, expressing confidence that his inclusive leadership would further consolidate peace and expand economic opportunities across Kaduna State.
Kaduna has historically remained one of Nigeria’s most politically and religiously sensitive states, where debates over Muslim-Christian representation have often shaped electoral contests and governance. Political observers believe Governor Uba Sani’s decision to nominate a Christian running mate represents a significant shift in the state’s political landscape and is expected to remain a key issue as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.
