Tag: Gov Sani

  • Gov Sani visits community where bandits abducted 177 villagers

    Gov Sani visits community where bandits abducted 177 villagers

    Governor Uba Sani on Wednesday visited Kurmin Wali community in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, following the controversial abduction of scores of villagers by bandits and promised the quick rescue of those taken.

    The Governor said the State Government was working closely with security agencies to ensure the safe return of the abducted persons, stressing that the protection of lives and property remained a top priority of his administration.

    Sani was accompanied on the visit by the Commissioner of Police, Muhammad Rabiu; Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Sule Shuaibu (SAN); Chairman of Kajuru Local Government Area, Dauda Madaki; and other senior government officials and security personnel.

    Addressing residents, the Governor said he was in the community to personally sympathise with them over the attack that occurred on Sunday, assuring that the state would not abandon the victims or their families.

    He said: “In Kaduna State, every life matters. We are here to assure the people of Kurmin Wali that the government is collaborating with all security agencies to ensure that those abducted return home safely.”

    Sani said some residents sustained injuries during the incident, adding that the State Government would bear the cost of medical treatment for all affected persons.

    He explained that security agencies initially took time to verify details of the incident, but noted that government attention was now firmly focused on rescuing the abductees.

    The Governor said the state was working with the military, the Department of State Services (DSS), the police and the Office of the National Security Adviser to secure the release of the victims.

    He dismissed debates over the number of abducted persons, insisting that even if one person was taken, the government had a duty to act decisively.

    Read Also: Obasanjo holds closed-door meeting with Babangida in Minna

    “We are not talking about numbers or politics. We are talking about the sanctity of human life. Whether one person or many, the responsibility of government remains the same,” he said.

    Governor Sani cautioned against politicising insecurity, warning that commentary from people far removed from the situation could undermine efforts to resolve it.

    He said the reception he received in Kurmin Wali showed that residents trusted the government and believed in its inclusive approach to governance, regardless of religion or ethnicity.

    The governor assured the community that the abducted villagers would be recovered within days, expressing confidence in the ongoing security operations.

    Responding to demands by community leaders, Governor Sani acknowledged the poor condition of the access road to Kurmin Wali and promised immediate intervention.

    He disclosed that he had already engaged the Minister of Defence and other security chiefs, urging the establishment of a military base in the area due to its proximity to bandit-prone forests.

    According to him, the location of Kurmin Wali makes it vulnerable, adding that a permanent military presence would prevent criminals displaced from major highways from relocating to rural communities.

    Governor Sani also announced plans to build a befitting hospital in the community to address long-standing healthcare challenges.

    He further directed relevant agencies to commence processes for the construction of the road, assuring residents that a groundbreaking would take place in the coming days.

    Speaking during the visit, President of the Southern Kaduna People’s Union (SOKAPU), Mr. Tabara Katoh, commended the governor for what he described as pragmatic and compassionate leadership.

    Katoh said Governor Sani was the first sitting governor to visit Kurmin Wali, adding that his actions had reassured the community despite conflicting reports surrounding the abduction.

    He said attempts by political detractors to exploit the situation would fail, stressing that the community’s support for the governor was based on performance, not politics.

    The Nation’s investigation revealed that, the abductors were yet to make any monetary ransom demand, although some escapees said the bandits demanded motorcycles in exchange for the hostages.

  • We won’t allow criminals to dictate pace of events in Kaduna — Gov Sani

    We won’t allow criminals to dictate pace of events in Kaduna — Gov Sani

    …as Army, stakeholders unveil joint security strategy

    Governor Uba Sani has vowed that criminals will not be allowed to dictate the pace of events in Kaduna State as the Nigerian Army, alongside other security agencies and key stakeholders, unveiled a new joint security strategy to tackle resurging threats across the state.

    Represented by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Sule Shuaibu (SAN), Governor Sani made the declaration during a high-level security engagement convened in Kaduna by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division and Commander, Sector 1 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Abubakar Sadiq Mohammed Wase.

    He commended the security agencies for their sustained efforts in stabilising vulnerable communities and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting coordinated operations and investing in systems that promote peace and security.

    According to the Governor, “Kaduna will not bow to criminals. We are determined to restore normalcy and ensure that no threat undermines the rule of law.”

    Read Also: Gov Sani tasks lawyers on ethical rebirth

    Governor Sani however urged security leaders to intensify non-kinetic approaches such as community engagement, preventive diplomacy and counter-narrative measures, noting that enduring stability rests on justice, development and inclusion.

    Earlier, Major General Wase said the meeting was organised to harmonise intelligence operations, strengthen partnerships and map out a unified response framework for emerging and existing security challenges.

    Major General Ward noted with emphasis that, only a collective, intelligence-driven approach could deliver long-term peace.

    The GOC stressed that effective security management requires synergy among security agencies, traditional rulers, civil society groups, business leaders and citizens, describing the forum as a call to shared responsibility.

    The Emir of Birnin Gwari, Alhaji Zubairu Maigwari II, represented by the Chairman of Birnin Gwari Local Government Area, Hon. Salisu Isah, commended the deepening cooperation between traditional institutions and security agencies, saying that, the collaboration had improved dispute resolution in affected communities.

    The engagement featured lectures, presentations and interactive sessions focused on improving early-warning systems, strengthening joint operations and expanding community-driven peace initiatives aimed at building a safer and more resilient Kaduna State.

  • Gov Sani tasks lawyers on ethical rebirth

    Gov Sani tasks lawyers on ethical rebirth

    Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has urged legal practitioners to recommit themselves to integrity, professionalism and the defence of democracy.

    The governor, who gave the charge at the Annual Bar Dinner and Award Night organized by the Kaduna Branch of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), said public confidence in the justice system cannot be restored without a deliberate ethical rebirth within the bar and the bench.

    Represented by the state’s Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister James Kanyip, the governor said the Annual Bar Dinner and Award Night offered an opportunity to reflect on the past and recommit to values that define a fair and functional justice system.

    Governor Sani noted that the gathering was not merely celebratory but a reaffirmation of the state’s “unwavering dedication to the legal profession,” adding that lawyers must continue to protect the scales of justice with fairness to both the powerful and the vulnerable.

    He said the legal community must maintain the highest standards in practice, ensuring that the delivery of justice remains accessible, swift and credible. 

    According to him, “Our tireless efforts must ensure the scales of justice are balanced between the public and private sectors, the rich and the poor, irrespective of social class or status.”

    The governor stressed that the legal profession plays a pivotal role in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy, insisting that any decline in public trust poses risks not only for justice delivery but for national stability.

    Guest speaker at the event, former Senator Bala Ibn Na’allah, echoed similar concerns, warning that Nigeria’s justice system is facing a crisis of confidence largely fuelled by internal failures within the bar and bench.

    Na’allah questioned why the controversies surrounding ex parte orders, interference and delays in justice delivery persist in Nigeria but are absent in legal systems from which the country borrowed its laws. 

    He argued that the situation reflects deep structural and ethical problems that must be confronted.

    According to him, the challenges “are a direct failure of our justice delivery system,” adding that unless lawyers and judicial officers “look inward and address those issues,” public confidence will continue to dwindle.

    The former Senator said both the bar and the bench must accept responsibility for current lapses, insisting that “something is definitely wrong” and that a profession known for social engineering cannot afford to lose its moral authority.

    NBA Kaduna Branch Chairman, Barrister Baba Lawal Aliyu, said the annual dinner serves as a moment of camaraderie and reflection, as members eat, interact, honour excellence and recommit to the ideals of justice. 

    He said the branch is deliberately confronting the declining public perception of the legal profession.

    According to him, despite Nigeria adopting similar legal principles with advanced jurisdictions, justice delivery in the country remains slow and heavily technical. 

    He expressed hope that reforms and renewed commitment within the profession would eventually restore efficiency and public trust.

    A major highlight of the night was the presentation of awards to notable Nigerians who have contributed to justice, peacebuilding and legal development within and beyond Kaduna State.

    Top among the honourees was the Emir of Zazzau, His Royal Highness Amb. Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, CFR, who received the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Ambassador Award for his role in resolving over 2,000 community disputes through traditional mechanisms outside the courts.

    The branch also honoured the late Justice Ibrahim Tanko Mohammed, former Chief Justice of Nigeria; and the late Justice Kumai Aka’ahs, former Justice of the Supreme Court, including posthumous recognitions for past secretaries and prominent bar leaders who served the judiciary with distinction.

    Barrister Aliyu said the awards represent the branch’s effort to celebrate dedication, integrity and service, while inspiring younger lawyers to pursue excellence and uphold the profession’s finest traditions.

    The event, which featured dinner, music and networking among legal practitioners, ended with a renewed call for unity, introspection and higher ethical standards in the practice of law across Kaduna State and the country.

  • Gov Sani visits families of slain wedding guests, vows justice for victims

    Gov Sani visits families of slain wedding guests, vows justice for victims

    Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, on Tuesday visited Unguwan Dantsoho in Kudan Local Government Area to commiserate with families of 12 residents brutally murdered and burnt in Mangu, Plateau State, while en route to a wedding.

    The victims, all from Kudan LGA, were travelling to attend the wedding of a relative in Qu’anpan LGA, Plateau State, when they reportedly lost their way and stopped in Mangun village for directions, only to be ambushed and killed by unknown assailants.

    Addressing the mourning community, Governor Sani condemned the attack in strong terms and pledged that justice would be pursued to its fullest. “We will not rest until those responsible for this heinous crime are brought to justice,” he said.

    The Governor also called on fellow Nigerian leaders to protect the constitutional rights of citizens, particularly the right to move freely across the country. “No Nigerian should be attacked for travelling from one state to another. The right to life and free movement is sacrosanct,” he stressed.

    Commending the people of Kudan for maintaining peace despite their pain, Sani praised their maturity and restraint. “You chose peace over retaliation. That makes you heroes of national unity,” he declared.

    He revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has personally intervened in the matter and that the Federal Government is working closely with Plateau State authorities to ensure accountability.

    Governor Sani also disclosed that he had earlier visited the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital in Kaduna to meet survivors of the attack and that a separate government delegation had been dispatched to the bereaved families to convey his condolences.

    Reaffirming his administration’s resolve to protect all citizens regardless of tribe or faith, Sani said: “In Kaduna, we don’t discriminate. If you live here, you are one of us and your life matters. We are a multi-ethnic and multi-religious state, but we’ve maintained peace for the past two years because of deliberate leadership.”

    Read Also: Kaduna’s massive turnout shows Tinubu, Sani will win 2027 poll – Commissioner 

    To support the community’s resilience and promote development, the Governor announced that the road from Kudan to Basawa in Sabon Gari LGA would be tarred, and a modern hospital would be constructed in the area “because of their peaceful nature.”

    Local CAN leaders, including the Chairman in Kudan, also spoke during the visit, testifying to the longstanding harmony between Christians and Muslims in the area. “Our people live in peace, and we will not allow this tragedy to divide us,” he affirmed.

    The Chairman of Kudan LGA, Alhaji Dauda Iliya Abba, hailed the Governor’s swift and sustained response, describing him as “a just leader who mourns with his people and stays awake with them in times of sorrow.” He assured that no reprisals would be allowed under his watch.

  • Why Kaduna is succeeding, by Gov Sani

    Why Kaduna is succeeding, by Gov Sani

    Governor Uba Sani has disclosed that his administration has been succeeding in building human capital and bridging the infrastructural deficit in Kaduna State because he runs an open government.

    The Governor also said that he promised to deepen citizen engagement  by reaching out to all the relevant stakeholders in Kaduna State, when he assumed office.

    He made this known when members of the Kaduna Elders Forum, led by Co-Chairman Alhaji Abubakar Mustapha,  paid him a sallah homage at Sir Kashim Ibrahim House on Sunday.

    Sani thanked members for their support, noting that ‘’you have not failed us since when we called on you to work with our government, by giving us advice and making inputs, because of your vast experiences.’’

    Describing the forum as one of the most important groups that has been supporting  his administration, the Governor thanked the members, especially  the Co-Chairmen, Alhaji Abubakar Mustapha and retired General Zamani Lekwot.

    According to him, the members of the forum comprise retired civil servants, people who have worked in the security service, former diplomats, personalities who have held political appointments at state and federal levels.

    The Governor noted that his administration is leveraging ‘’these experiences  to move our state forward,’’  adding that  ‘’without your support, we wouldn’t have addressed the issue of insecurity as easy as we have done.’’

    Read Also: Uba Sani versus Nasir El-Rufai

    ‘’Apart from that,  we have invested so much in agriculture, infrastructural development, in healthcare and education as well as social intervention, we also believe in expanding our area of support, particularly in the area of social intervention,’’ he added.

    The Governor recalled that ‘’when we came in, there was a huge infrastructural deficit, particularly in the gap between the  rural and urban local governments.

    ‘’That is why out of the 79 road projects that we flagged off, today I am proud that we have completed 26 roads in Kaduna State, 60% of which are the rural local governments,’’ he disclosed.

    Governor Uba Sani also said that ‘’out of the 32 General Hospitals that we have, only two were functioning up to standard when we came in. The rest were completely dilapidated. They lacked equipment.

    ‘’But today, I am happy to say that we have embarked on renovating, equipping and re-moldeling 15 out of 32 of them. And only last week, we were able to commission five  out of the 15 and in the next two to three weeks,  by the Grace of God, we will  complete at least nine more,’’ he promised.

    The Governor said that his administration wants   people to have access to good healthcare, adding that  ‘’healthcare is a fundamental human right and not a privilege, particularly for the downtrodden, the vulnerable and the under served.’’

    ‘’That is why I am proud to say that as of today, only Kaduna State has  lifted its  PHCs from Level 1 to Level 2, numbering about 250. That is why three months ago, Kaduna State Government was able to win the award as the best state in the North West in Primary Health Care, we got about $500,000 reward by the Federal Ministry of Health,’’ he added.

  • Gov Sani commissions materials, vehicles to enhance basic education in Kaduna

    Gov Sani commissions materials, vehicles to enhance basic education in Kaduna

    Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has launched the distribution of essential educational materials and project monitoring vehicles to enhance basic education in the state.

    Represented by his Chief of Staff, Sani Liman Kila, the governor flagged off the distribution of various items across the 23 local government areas in Kaduna on Wednesday.

    This includes the distribution of 385,136 textbooks, 337,500 writing materials, 20,920 packs of hygiene kits, 2,884 vocational tools, 194,264 sports development equipment, 1,173 renewable energy devices, 135 tablets, and 131,246 school uniforms.

    The distribution includes three Toyota Hilux vehicles, one Hiace bus for project monitoring, and 24 motorcycles to reach hard-to-access areas.

    The governor emphasised the crucial role of basic education in establishing a foundation for prosperous societies, identifying it as a top priority for the Uba Sani Administration.

    In his address, the Acting Executive Chairman of SUBEB, Mubarak Mohammed, highlighted that this distribution effort is part of a comprehensive strategy by the Uba Sani-led administration to improve learning outcomes, promote school safety and hygiene, support technical and vocational education, and ensure effective school monitoring and quality assurance within the basic education sector.

    He noted that this intervention aligns closely with the administration’s Human Capital Development Agenda by fostering greater accountability, improving school attendance, and enhancing classroom engagement, particularly for girls and vulnerable children.

    Read Also: Gov Sani appoints two new Commissioners, revives Ministry of Information

    “This initiative directly addresses the needs of both learners and teachers. It reflects the state government’s commitment to equity, access, and quality in education,” he stated. “As we distribute these materials across all local governments, we are confident they will lead to greater accountability, improved school attendance, and better engagement in classrooms, especially for girls and vulnerable children.”

    He also expressed gratitude to the dedicated staff at the Board, along with teachers and partners, stating, “Your hard work and collaboration continue to make a difference. Together, we are building a system where every child has the opportunity to learn and thrive.”

    Teachers, staff, and other stakeholders were instructed to ensure the proper use of the materials provided to guarantee efficient service delivery. Attendees at the event included heads of government agencies, senior appointees in the Kaduna State Government, and members of the Kaduna State House of Assembly.

  • Kaduna to Introduce Measles-Rubella Vaccine in next immunisation campaign — Gov Sani

    Kaduna to Introduce Measles-Rubella Vaccine in next immunisation campaign — Gov Sani

    Governor Uba Sani has announced that Kaduna State will incorporate the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine into its next statewide immunisation campaign as part of efforts to strengthen child healthcare.

    Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement on the introduction of MR vaccines into routine immunisation in the state on Thursday, the governor represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Hadiza Balarabe commended the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) for initiating the move.

    Dr. Balarabe described the inclusion of the MR vaccine as “a bold step in the right direction,” noting that it will significantly enhance the chances of survival and well-being for every Nigerian child.

    ‘’As a medical doctor and public servant, I understand the crucial role immunisation plays in shaping the future of our society. A healthy child today means a more productive adult tomorrow,’’ she said.

    According to her, health workers, community and religious leaders, policymakers, donor agencies, parents, and government officials to do everything possible to protect the lives of our children.

    The Deputy Governor said the Government cannot win this battle alone because all stakeholders need each other to rise to this collective responsibility of fighting the disease.

    ‘’From traditional and religious leaders to frontline health workers, from policymakers to the wives of our local government chairmen—everyone is expected to play a vital role in sensitising their respective communities and constituencies,’’ she added.

    Dr Balarabe disclosed that ‘’as at January 31, 2025, 627 suspected Measles cases were recorded in 213 LGAs across 30 States of our dear country.

    ‘’While this represents a significant drop from the 2,157 cases in January 2024, the fact that over 80% of confirmed cases involved unvaccinated children speaks volumes.’’

    The deputy governor lamented that the cases and deaths that have been recorded in our state in 2025 are unfortunate. These are not just statistics. They were children with names, with dreams, with futures that have now been cut short.’’

    Read Also: NSCDC’s mining marshals shut illegal site in Kaduna

    ‘’To our health workers—you are the hands and feet of this effort. Yours is a sacred duty. You are the hope of mothers who bring their children to the facilities. Your commitment must rise to match the urgency of this moment,’’ she noted

    Dr Balarabe called on the Chairmen of Kaduna North and South, who were present at the event, to provide information to their colleagues because ‘’we want this stakeholder engagement to be cascaded down to Wards.’’

    ‘’To the spouses of our LGA Chairmen, you hold the Key to the future of the Children within your LGC. This is because you are the Mobilisation and Sensitisation Champions of your LGC. Please let your voices be heard in every nook and cranny of your LGC.

    ‘’Inform women and get their buy-in and understanding of the values and benefits of immunisation. No child in your LGC should be denied access to the vaccines. Your voices matter. Kaduna counts on your support for this cause,’’ she implored.

    Speaking at the event, the First Lady of Kaduna State, Hajiya Hafsat Uba Sani, advised women to take routine vaccination very seriously in order to keep their children healthy.

    Hajiya Hafsat further called on traditional and religious leaders, local government chairmen, and their wives to sensitise the people about the importance of vaccination.

    In her welcome address, the Commissioner of Health, Hajiya Umma Ahmad, noted that ‘’measles and rubella remain serious public health concerns, particularly for our most vulnerable populations—children under five and pregnant women.’’

    According to her, ‘’the good news is that both diseases are vaccine-preventable. This marks a critical step toward safeguarding our children and achieving disease elimination targets.”

    ‘’Kaduna State is ready to embrace this change and incorporate it fully into our routine services. By adding the MR vaccine to our routine schedule, Kaduna will ensure that every eligible child – those at 9 months and those returning at 15 months – receives this life-saving immunisation,’’ she promised.

    The Commissioner also commended the Federal Ministry of Health, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, National Programme on Immunization, our international partners like UNICEF, WHO, Gavi and other agencies have provided critical technical and financial assistance for immunization programs.

  • Gov Sani commends Dangote’s fight against hunger, poverty in Nigeria

    Gov Sani commends Dangote’s fight against hunger, poverty in Nigeria

    Governor Uba Sani has commended Alhaji Aliko Dangote and the Aliko Dangote Foundation for their unrelenting commitment to the fight against hunger and poverty in Nigeria.

    The governor gave the commendation during the distribution of 35,000 bags of 10 kilograms of rice to the 23 local governments of Kaduna State by the Aliko Dangote Foundation on Thursday.

    Governor Uba Sani, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Alhaji Sani Liman Kila, noted that each local government will get 1,522 bags, adding that the Foundation’s interventions have been well-targeted and impactful.

    Governor Uba Sani said, “Aliko Dangote’s social protection initiatives align with the policies and programmes of our administration on social investment.

    ‘’Since the inception of our administration, we have impacted the lives of our citizens through the delivery of basic services with a focus on health, education, and social protection,’’ he said.

    ‘’We have been supporting economic recovery through inclusive growth and development, financial inclusion and literacy for the poor and vulnerable, humanitarian response focusing on Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), and improving peace, safety, and security,’’ he added.

    The governor promised to ‘’continue to partner with people-focused foundations like Aliko Dangote Foundation to improve the living conditions of the poor and vulnerable in our state.’’

    Read Also: Traditional leaders key to peace, security – Gov Sani

    Speaking at the event, Alhaji Sadiq Ahmed, the representative of the foundation, said that the Aliko Dangote Foundation Annual National Food Intervention Project is ‘’targeting over one million less privileged Nigerians nationwide.’’

    According to him, the distribution cuts across all the 774 local governments and it is ‘’in line with the core values of Alhaji Aliko Dangote’s businesses and the Aliko Dangote Foundation.’’

    Alhaji Sadiq said that the initiative embodies compassion, solidarity and shared responsibility, which are part of the Foundation’s response to the current economic challenges in the country.

    He further said that the distribution of palliatives ‘’reflects commitment to supporting our communities in line with our core values.’’

  • Residents celebrate as Gov Sani breaks 20-year infrastructure jinx in Kaduna

    Residents celebrate as Gov Sani breaks 20-year infrastructure jinx in Kaduna

    Residents of Kagarko, the headquarters of Kagarko Local Government Area in Kaduna State, have expressed joy and support for Governor Uba Sani, applauding his efforts in breaking a 20-year cycle of infrastructural neglect with the completion of the Alphabet Township Road. 

    Community leaders and residents commended the governor when Engr. Sadiq Abubakar Dan Iyan Tangale, Managing Director of Farmtrac—the indigenous contractor behind the project—led his team on a final inspection before handing the road over to the government. 

    Speaking on behalf of the community, the District Head of Kagarko, Alhaji Garba Lawal, praised Governor Sani for addressing their long-standing infrastructural concerns, noting that previous administrations had overlooked their needs. 

    “Our joy knows no bounds today because Governor Uba has delivered the Kagarko township road in record time. This project affirms that we are truly part of Kaduna State, with a government that cares for rural dwellers,” Lawal stated.

    “We are a border community, sharing border with Niger State, Federal Capital Territory and Nasarawa State. So, the past governments forgot us with developmental projects. We have had several governors in Kaduna State, but today we can testify that we have a Governor who has recognised our community as part of Kaduna State,” he said.

    The Traditional ruler also commended the Contractor, Farmtrac Nigeria Ltd, for not only implementing the contract according to the plan, but also adding value to the work with extra services like drainage and repair of certain roads outside the scope of the contract.

    Read Also: Kaduna will lift millions of Kaduna citizens out of poverty through financial inclusion, says Gov Sani

    Also, one of the Political leaders of the Kagarko community, Alhaji Shehu Tafarki, said, with the completion of the Kagarko township road, Governor Uba Sani does not need to come to Kagarko LGA for campaign diluting the 2027 election, as victory is assured for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the area.

    He said, “We have been neglected in the past. We were not only neglected, we were deceived. But today, we have seen roads similar to what we see in Abuja and even the city of Mecca. I have experience in road construction, and I have seen that the cii ok tractor did not maximize profit.”

    The contractor, Sadiq Abubakar Dan Iyan Tangale, an engineer, promised to donate speed breakers to the community after the commissioning of the road by Governor Uba Sani, to check excessive speeding on the road.

    He said he has chosen to always deliver quality jobs wherever he gets a contract, to restore the confidence of the government and Nigerians in indigenous contractors, saying that it is time for indigenous contractors to take over the space in Nigeria.

    “For instance, during an outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic outbreak, all the foreign contractors had to leave the country, so, should there be such an emergency again and a major bridge collapses, what do we do? So, it is time we start entrusting indigenous contractors to handle our constructions. On our part, we will continue to deliver our best,” he said.

    The road is expected to be commissioned by Governor Uba Sani in the coming days.

  • Workers’ Day: We implemented N72,000 minimum wage despite inherited debt – Gov Sani

    Workers’ Day: We implemented N72,000 minimum wage despite inherited debt – Gov Sani

    Joining Kaduna workers at Murtala Mohammed Square for the 2025 International Workers’ Day, Governor Uba Sani reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare.

    He emphasised this dedication through the implementation of a N72,000 minimum wage despite inherited debts and economic challenges. 

    Dressed in vibrant labour attire alongside his deputy, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, and other top officials, Governor Sani stated, “Our administration has blazed the trail by implementing the N72,000 minimum wage for all state workers. We made this sacrifice because we believe every worker deserves to live in dignity.” 

    He also highlighted initiatives such as the Subsidised Transportation Scheme in collaboration with organised labour, the deployment of 100 CNG buses, and the Kaduna Bus Rapid Transit (KBRT) System launched in March 2025.

    Additionally, the groundbreaking for the Southern Terminal and the distribution of 4,000 motorcycles in February 2025 were cited as further efforts to support workers.

    “The long-standing denial of workers’ promotion that affected over 80% of our workforce has been addressed. All deserving staff will now be recognised and promoted accordingly.

    “Earlier this year, we sponsored labour leaders and officials for advanced training in Italy on industrial harmony and collective bargaining. Furthermore, we have approved comprehensive training for union leaders in collaboration with the Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies.

    “Funds previously withheld from the contributory Teachers’ Welfare Fund have been fully restored. We have repositioned this scheme to deliver meaningful economic empowerment to our teachers.

    “While workers build the economy, we are obliged to ensure their safety. I am happy to report a significant decline in banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism across Kaduna State. This is attributable to the effective implementation of the Kaduna Peace Model – a non-kinetic approach jointly facilitated by the Kaduna State Government, the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) and Security Agencies,” Governor Sani said.

    The Governor also noted that, his administration had approved the immediate recruitment of 1,800 health workers to strengthen the state’s primary healthcare system as well as employment of 3,000 teachers to restore capacity in the public schools decimated by mass dismissals by the previous administration.

    “In a bid to retain intellectual capital, we approved five additional years of service from 35 to 40 years, bringing the retirement age to 65 years for the academic staff of state-owned tertiary institutions. The institutions include the Kaduna State University (KASU), Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic Zaria, College of Education, Gidan Waya, and the Schools of Nursing and Midwifery.”

    In the area of pension and gratuity, Governor Sani said, “upliftment of the living conditions of pensioners is one of the top priorities of our administration. In April 2025, we released the sum of N3.8 billion to settle outstanding gratuity, death benefits, and accrued rights in the Contributory Pension Scheme.

    “Since the inception of our administration, we have paid cumulatively the sum of N10.2 billion in gratuity, death benefits, and accrued rights in the Contributory Pension Scheme. This feat is unprecedented in the history of Kaduna State. We remain committed to ensuring that those who have served Kaduna State retire and live with respect.

    In his speech, the Kaduna State Council Chairman of Trade Union Congress (TUC), Abdullahi Alhassan Danfulani commended Governor Uba Sani for approving the release of N500million into the workers Micro-credit Scheme, appealing to the Governor to approve release of additional sum of N500million into the scheme.

    According to him. “On behalf of the teaming civil servants in the state, I wish to extend our gratitude to our dear Governor for approving the resuscitation of the Micro-credit Scheme in the State Civil Service and also the release of the sum of N500,000,000.00 (Five Hundred Million Naira Only) to over five hundred (500) civil servants.

    “But like Oliver Twist, who always asks for more, we are appealing to His Excellency to approve the release of additional N500,000,000.00 (Five Hundred Million Naira Only) into the Scheme in order to accommodate more workers in view of the high demand and also expand the revolving capital of the Scheme.

    Read Also: Kaduna will lift millions of Kaduna citizens out of poverty through financial inclusion, says Gov Sani

    “We stand here today recognising the strides made within our state, and it is only fitting that we acknowledge the efforts of the Kaduna State Government in addressing critical concerns that directly impact our lives and livelihoods. We have witnessed and commend the commitment of the government in strengthening the security landscape of our dear state.

    “The peace and safety of our communities are paramount, and we acknowledge the positive steps taken to ensure a more secure environment for all workers and citizens.

    “Furthermore, we extend our sincere appreciation for the consistent payment of salaries as due. This fundamental commitment provides stability and dignity to the workforce, allowing us to focus on our duties and contribute meaningfully to the progress of Kaduna State.

    “We recognise that this reliability is crucial for the well-being of our families and the overall economic health of our state.

    “In a particularly significant development for our colleagues, we wholeheartedly applaud His Excellency for the inclusion of the Kaduna State Water Corporation workers on the state government’s staff payroll.

    “This decision is a testament to the recognition of their essential services and ensures their rightful place within the state’s workforce. It brings a sense of security and belonging, empowering them to continue their crucial work of providing this vital resource to our communities,” the TUC chairman said.