15/08/2026
AN HONOUR AND A RENEWED CALL TO SERVICE
Earlier today, I was deeply honoured to receive the Award of Excellence from the Southern Kaduna Lawyers Forum (SKLF) during the Forum’s Annual General Meeting in Kaduna.
I am profoundly grateful for this distinguished recognition. It means a great deal to me, particularly because it comes from a community of professionals whose vocation is rooted in justice, integrity, advocacy and the rule of law.
I accept this honour with humility, but also with a deep sense of responsibility. I regard it not merely as an acknowledgement of what has been done, but as a renewed charge to do more in the service of our people.
Our society is passing through challenging times. The values that hold communities together, justice, fairness, peace, accountability and respect for the rule of law, must be continuously defended and strengthened. The legal profession has a particularly important role to play in this regard, and I commend the Southern Kaduna Lawyers Forum for its commitment to these enduring ideals.
As a public servant, I have always believed that leadership is, ultimately, about service. It is about giving voice to the voiceless, standing firmly for what is right, creating opportunities for our people, and working towards a society where every citizen can live with dignity, security and hope.
Southern Kaduna possesses enormous human, cultural and economic potential. Unlocking that potential will require our collective commitment to strengthening institutions, protecting justice, promoting peaceful coexistence and creating meaningful opportunities, particularly for our young people.
Lawyers therefore have a responsibility that extends beyond advocacy in the courtroom. They are also defenders of democratic values, champions of justice and guardians of the rule of law. Their contribution to building a fair, peaceful and accountable society is indispensable.
I am especially encouraged that this recognition comes from a professional body whose members understand deeply the importance of justice, good governance and the protection of fundamental values. I regard this award as an affirmation that public service must remain anchored in principle, courage, integrity and accountability.
I therefore dedicate this honour to the people of Southern Kaduna, whose resilience, courage and determination continue to inspire me. I also dedicate it to all those who believe that, despite the challenges we face, we can build a more peaceful, united and prosperous society.
To the leadership and members of the Southern Kaduna Lawyers Forum, I express my sincere appreciation for this honour. I assure you that I will regard it not as a conclusion, but as a renewed call to service and a greater responsibility to the people I represent.
May we continue to work together across professional, political, ethnic and religious lines to advance the cause of justice, peace, development and prosperity in Southern Kaduna and across Nigeria.
Senator Sunday Marshall Katung
Kaduna South Senatorial District
