By: Ibrahima Yakubu
I write this with deep appreciation to Dr. Saleh Momale, the former
Executive Vice-Chairman of the Kaduna State Peace Commission (KSPC), for his unwavering commitment to peacebuilding and his invaluable contributions to the training and empowerment of journalists in the region.
Dr. Momale has played an instrumental role in training 50 journalists on Peace Journalism and fact-finding, equipping them with the tools to uncover truths and counter the misleading narratives often spread on social media and other media organizations locally and internationally.
I have had the privilege of working closely with Dr. Momale on several fact-finding missions, where we sought to bring out the truth behind the stories circulating in the public sphere.
It is rare to find a leader as dedicated as Dr. Momale, who continuously sacrifices his time and resources for the success of the Peace Commission, the state, and the country at large.
Since his appointment at the helms of affair at the KSPC by the former Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, Dr. Momale has initiated transformative changes aimed at promoting tolerance, building trust, and fostering meaningful dialogues.
His leadership has focused on encouraging religious tolerance, dialogues, and forgiveness, all of which have contributed significantly to the peaceful coexistence of diverse communities in Kaduna and beyond.
Under his guidance, many journalists were trained in Peace Journalism, which has greatly enhanced the media’s role in advocating for peace, unity, and harmony. Kaduna’s journalists have become some of the most prominent in Nigeria for their stories on peacebuilding, religious tolerance, and interfaith understanding.
This unique approach has positioned Kaduna’s media landscape as a model for the rest of the country.
Furthermore, many journalists have been equipped with the skills for fact-finding, ensuring that they report only the truth, spreading messages that promote peace and religious tolerance. These efforts have contributed to fostering an environment of understanding and unity across various faith-based communities.
Dr. Saleh Momale, your departure from the Kaduna State Peace Commission is a significant loss, and your absence will surely be felt. However, your legacy of promoting peace, tolerance, and understanding will remain a guiding principle for all of us working in the field of peacebuilding.
The Network of peace journalists (NPJ) will remain committed towards supporting the Peace Commission in its efforts to promote peace and stability in Kaduna and across Nigeria.
Once again, we express our heartfelt gratitude. You have been an exceptional leader and a true hero in the movement for peacebuilding in Nigeria.
May God bless and reward you abundantly for your selfless services to humanity.
We wish you success in anywhere you find yourself.
Ibrahima Yakubu, is the Team Leader of the Network of Peace Journalists (NPJ) in Kaduna, and a Member, Governing Board of African Institute of Waste and Environmental Studies(Ghana and Senegal).
He can be reached through : ibrahimayakubu@gmail.com.
Phone number
+2348025257284
