The Women Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (WOWICAN), Jos North Local Government Chapter, has honoured the former Executive Chairman of Jos North Local Government Council, Ambassador Shehu Bala Usman, with an Award of Excellence in recognition of his selfless service to the people of the locality.

The ceremony, which held at the ECWA Good News Church along Ahmadu Bello Way, Jos, brought together women leaders, Community stakeholders, Clergy, and members of the public who gathered to acknowledge the former chairman’s contributions to religious harmony and inclusive governance.

Presenting the award, the Chairperson of WOWICAN Jos North, Victoria Bako, commended Ambassador Usman for running an administration that embraced people of all faiths during his tenure. 

She said his leadership style not only promoted peaceful coexistence but also strengthened mutual understanding among the diverse religious Communities in the Council.

Bako explained that under Ambassador Usman's leadership, WOWICAN and other Christian groups enjoyed unrestricted access to the Council, noting that his open-door policy enabled the association to advance programmes that benefitted women, youths, and vulnerable groups across the local government.

She noted that the association acknowledged the support they received from the former chairman during his  trajectory in public service, stressing that his consistent encouragement and cooperation enabled WOWICAN to execute several impactful activities within the community.

She asserted that Ambassador Usman’s openness, fairness, and deliberate efforts to foster unity remained exemplary, stressing that residents across different religious backgrounds benefitted from his developmental programmes and humanitarian gestures.

Receiving the award, Ambassador Shehu Bala Usman expressed appreciation to WOWICAN for the honour, describing it as a call to continue promoting peace, justice, and service to humanity. 

He acknowledged the critical role played by the Christian Community and other stakeholders in supporting his administration while he served as Council Chairman.

Ambassador Usman emphasized that Jos North, being a melting pot of cultures and religions, requires leaders who are committed to fairness and inclusivity, noting that sustainable peace can only be achieved when all segments of society feel represented and valued.

He further assured the association of his continued support for initiatives that promote religious harmony, grassroots empowerment, and community development, adding that the award would spur him to do even more for the people of the area.

The event featured goodwill messages, prayers for continued peace in Jos North, and expressions of hope that leaders will continue to emulate the virtues of selflessness and unity championed by Ambassador Shehu Bala Usman.