The Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, on Wednesday said that harmony among citizens is a critical enabler in achieving cogent and realistic development in the state.

El-Rufai called on the people to redouble efforts, and stand together to defeat and reject any attempt to divide Kaduna people along religious and ethnic lines.

The governor, who was speaking to journalists shortly after the Eid prayers held at Kaduna Capital School, also commended citizens for keeping faith in the government's policies and actions.

In a statement signed by the governor’s spokesman, Samuel Aruwan quoted El-Rufai as saying “Harmony and peace are crucial values in taking Kaduna State to greater height. They help provide the enabling environment for the realisation of good intentions and strategic plans that will bring about real development.

“Luckily for us in Kaduna State, citizens have been helpful and supportive of this government and we will not rest on our oars in making Kaduna State great again.

“We are all happy for a successful and peaceful Ramadan and also Eid-el-Fitr in the state. We are grateful to security agencies, religious leaders and the traditional institutions and all citizens who helped to maintain the peace and calm during the holy month of Ramadan.

“Let us keep hope alive and continue to work assiduously for peace and security in our state. We must redouble our efforts, and stand together to defeat and reject any attempt to divide our people along religious and ethnic lines.”

•Photo shows Governor El-Rufai.