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Tag: Kaduna

  • Italy set to boost Kaduna’s investment drive –Ambassador

    Italy set to boost Kaduna’s investment drive –Ambassador

    Italian Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency, Lacopo Foti, has expressed his country’s readiness to support Kaduna State Government’s investment drive, by encouraging Italian companies to invest in the State.

    Mr. Foti who made the pledge when he paid a courtesy call on the Kaduna State Deputy Governor, Dr Hadiza Balarabe, at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim House on Saturday, expressed Italy’s willingness to collaborate with Kaduna State Government.

    “We have come to introduce ourselves, learn about the Government’s plans, and see if there are investments which you want the Italian Embassy to facilitate.

    “If there are private investments you desire in Kaduna, especially in machinery or manufacturing, or if you have plans for the next few years, let us know. If you’re interested in agricultural machinery companies like tractor plants, we can make contact with them,’’ he said.

    The Ambassador further encouraged the Kaduna State government to ‘’approach our embassy and we will link you up. We are ready to collaborate in manufacturing, technology and other areas.”

    Foti expressed optimism that after the courtesy visit, where possible collaborations in agriculture, education and training were discussed, ‘’in the coming months, we hope to do something concrete. We await proposals from Kaduna State regarding their interests, which we’ll take to the Italian Government.”

    Read Also: Governor Sani has transformed Kaduna health sector with major upgrades, says commissioner 

    According to him, Italian investors would find Kaduna’s climate “a bit better than Abuja’s” and its people friendly, adding that ‘’this is my first time in Kaduna, and I hope to return next month.’’

    The diplomat further said: “We have Italians living here; this visit is an opportunity to meet them and see how we can help them and the State Government.”

    In response, the Deputy Governor, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, acknowledged the long history between Italy and Nigeria, and expressed interest in establishing strong economic relations.

    Dr. Balarabe highlighted Kaduna State’s advantages in agriculture, solid minerals, tourism, energy, technology and human capital development, noting that the state is the largest producer of maize, tomatoes and ginger in Nigeria.

    “We have advantages in agriculture, mining, tourism, and human capital. Italy excels in manufacturing, technology, education, and renewable energy. I hope we can establish collaboration in these areas,” she said.

    The Deputy Governor, who directed the Kaduna Investment Promotion Agency (KADIPA) to prepare a proposal for the Italian Embassy, also expressed the hope that the Ambassador’s visit ” kicks off substantial conversations between our state and Italy.’’

  • No vacancy in Aso Rock, Kaduna Gov’t House – Zango Kataf APC stakeholders

    No vacancy in Aso Rock, Kaduna Gov’t House – Zango Kataf APC stakeholders

    The Executive Committee and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State have passed a vote of confidence on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani.

    This was ntained in a communiqué by Francis Danladi Kozah and Jerry Irimiya Mark, chairman and co-chairman of the APC stakeholders and read by the council chairman, Engr Joseph Bege Gaiya.

    The communique stated the decision was based on Tinubu and Sani’s commitments to the peace and security of not just Zangon Kataf, but Kaduna state at large.

    According to the stakeholders, the establishment of a military 2nd National Mission Brigade base in the local government has proven to be a pivotal move in sustaining peace in the area.

    “Their commitment to the peace and security of our people is evident in the sudden end to attacks on our communities.

    “This move reflects the government’s understanding of the critical need for enhanced security measures in areas prone to conflict, thereby fostering an environment where citizens can thrive.

    “We urge all residents of Zangon Kataf to remain vigilant and committed to fostering harmony within our communities, as peace is the cornerstone of development,” they said.

    The stakeholders lauded Tinubu for appointing Indigenes of Zangon Kataf including Gen. Chris Musa as Chief of Defence Staff and Bishop Hassan Kukah as Pro Chancellor of the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia.

    They explained that given the return of peace in the area and the tangible infrastructural development being witnessed, the re-election of Tinubu and Sani was a done deal.

    Read Also: 1,630 delegates pick Anambra APC Gov candidate today

    “In light of all that we have benefited from this government, we want to declare that there is no vacancy in Sir Kashim Ibrahim House and Aso Rock come 2027.

    “We shall offer our full support to both President Bola Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani in their re-election bid,” they added.

    They appreciated Gov. Sani for the ongoing multi billion naira skills acquisition city that will provide ‘our youths with certified skills, thereby stamping out the root cause of criminality in our society’.

    The stakeholders called on people of the local government to rally behind the two leaders as they have shown dedication to their welfare, security and progress.

  • Kaduna Christian leaders preach unity, tolerance

    Kaduna Christian leaders preach unity, tolerance

    The Southern Kaduna Christian Leaders Association (SKCLA) has called on Nigerians to recommit themselves to the values of tolerance and unity.

    SKCLA Chairman, Apostle Emmanuel Kure, made the call in his Sallah goodwill message yesterday in Kafanchan, Kaduna.

    He said: “This sacred period of devotion, sacrifice, and prayer is a time of deep spiritual renewal, and I commend your dedication to seeking God’s mercy and guidance.

    “May the blessings of this holy season bring peace, wisdom, and prosperity to your lives and to our beloved nation. As we celebrate this special moment, it is also a time for reflection on the path our nation is treading.

    “Nigeria was built on the foundation of unity in diversity, where people of all faiths and backgrounds share a common destiny.

    Read Also: Southern Kaduna youths pledge to reward Tinubu with votes in 2027

    “It is in this spirit that we must continue to foster understanding, mutual respect, and a governance system that upholds justice and fairness for all,” he stated.

    According to him, Nigeria’s progress depends on leaders who are committed to serving all citizens, regardless of faith or region.

    “Leadership in a multi-religious, multi-ethnic nation like ours must be inclusive and sensitive to the aspirations of all Nigerians. When governance leans towards exclusivity, it risks weakening the bonds that hold us together.

    “The prayers made during this season should inspire us to work towards a Nigeria where every citizen is treated with dignity, and where leadership is defined by service, justice, and fairness.”

  • JUST IN: Kaduna denies El-Rufai’s claims on declining revenue

    JUST IN: Kaduna denies El-Rufai’s claims on declining revenue

    The Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS) has dismissed claims by former Governor Nasir El-Rufai regarding a decline in the state’s monthly revenue and alleged illegal transfer of ₦100 million from the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) account.

    Speaking at a news conference, the Executive Chairman of KADIRS, Jerry Adams, stated that the revenue service has experienced significant growth under the current administration, surpassing the figures recorded during El-Rufai’s tenure.

    “It has become necessary to address certain claims made by the former Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir El-Rufai. While he may have acted based on limited or inaccurate information, or perhaps deliberately chosen to distort facts, it is imperative to clarify these issues for the discerning public,” Adams said.

    El-Rufai claimed that Kaduna’s monthly IGR dropped from ₦7 billion to ₦2 billion under Governor Uba Sani. 

    However, Adams countered this by explaining that the highest revenue collected during El-Rufai’s administration was ₦59 billion in 2022, translating to an average of ₦4.9 billion per month.

    He further noted that a substantial portion of the revenue from 2019 to 2022 came from one-off inflows, including back-duty recoveries and sales of government properties amounting to ₦45 billion.

    “When these one-off inflows are discounted, the actual monthly revenue collection during that period paints a different picture,” Adams added.

    Addressing the allegation of ₦100 million transfers to an unknown individual, Adams described it as “completely false,” explaining that the state’s revenue collection process is fully automated, with payments made through the PAYKADUNA portal and directly deposited into the state’s Treasury Single Account (TSA).

    Read Also: 2027: DWI accuses Atiku, El-Rufai of misleading Nigerians

    He emphasized that under the Uba Sani administration, Kaduna’s revenue has improved significantly.

    According to him: “In 2023, Kaduna State recorded an IGR of ₦62.48 billion, and in 2024, the figure rose to ₦71 billion—an average monthly collection of ₦5.2 billion and ₦6.0 billion, respectively,” he said.

    “For January and February 2025 alone, Kaduna State has already collected ₦7.46 billion and ₦6.68 billion, respectively, totaling ₦14.16 billion in just two months—without any back-duty recoveries. 

    “This demonstrates the administration’s unwavering commitment to revenue mobilization and sustainable governance.”

  • Kaduna tops North in IGR performance, records N14.16bn in two months

    Kaduna tops North in IGR performance, records N14.16bn in two months

    Kaduna State has maintained its position as the leading Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) performer among the 19 northern states for the past two years, thanks to Governor Uba Sani’s tax reforms.

    The Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS), in a statement issued on Friday, dismissed reports of a decline in IGR under the current administration.

    Highlighting the state’s revenue achievements, KADIRS said, “As a validation of the reforms in the revenue sector under Governor Uba Sani, Kaduna State generated IGR of N62.48 billion in 2023 and N71 billion in 2024, securing its position as the top IGR-performing state in northern Nigeria for the last two years.”

    The statement further revealed that Kaduna State collected N7.46 billion and N6.68 billion in IGR for January and February 2025, respectively, bringing the total to N14.16 billion within two months.

    Signed by the Head of Corporate Communication, Malam Zakari Jamilu Muhammad, the statement emphasized that IGR records for all states are publicly available.

    According to Malam Zakari, Governor Uba Sani’s administration has introduced various reforms to enhance tax collection and simplify payment processes. 

    These include the launch of an integrated tax administration portal (PAYKADUNA), financial inclusion initiatives, and increased engagement with taxpayers and stakeholders.

    According to the statement, KADIRS has also deployed “the first-of-its-kind interactive voice response system for taxpayer complains redressal among several initiatives that have resulted in improved tax administration in the state.’’

    The Head of Corporate Communication further expatiated on the current automation process of tax collection, explaining that ‘’payments are made through the PAYKADUNA portal or via pay direct channels from which they are swept directly into the State’s Treasury Single Accounts.’’

    According to the statement, this process ensures that staff of the Service have no access or interaction with tax collections.

    Read Also: Kaduna workers laud Sani over subsidised motorbike scheme

    ‘’The IGR account is a collection and transit account and not an expenditure account therefore, it is highly inaccurate to think that any amounts can be withdrawn from it to service any interests,’’ it explained.

    The statement noted that ‘’the current level of IGR collection of the state speaks to the competence of the Chairman, the management team of the Service and the support they enjoy from the state to function as a professional and apolitical revenue authority of the state.’’

    Malam Zakari also debunked the rumour that the former Executive Chairman was removed for calling out the Speaker for refusing to pay taxes, explaining that he had served ‘’his entire four-year tenure as provided in the Kaduna State Tax Codification and Consolidation Law, after which a new Executive Chairman was appointed by the Executive Governor.’’

    The statement further said that that KADIRS has never received any instructions to facilitate the payment of N100 million, or any payment for that matter, to either an individual or organization.

    The statement reminded that KADIRS ‘’is an autonomous agency of Kaduna State and remains committed to its mandate of facilitating seamless and efficient revenue mobilization for service delivery, without fear or favour to any individual or group.’’

  • Kaduna workers laud Sani over subsidised motorbike scheme

    Kaduna workers laud Sani over subsidised motorbike scheme

    Workers in Kaduna State have commended Governor Uba Sani for supporting the distribution of subsidised motorcycles to civil servants, particularly those working in hard-to-reach areas.

    The initiative, facilitated by the Kaduna State Government in collaboration with the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Moure Consult, aims to ease transportation difficulties for workers, including teachers and healthcare personnel.

    Comrade Hashidu Suleiman, Chief of Staff to the NLC Chairman, explained the initiative stemmed from discussions between the state NLC chairman and the governor.

    “Everything is going as planned. When the state chairman met the governor, he raised concerns about the high cost of transportation affecting workers. The governor was very clear—teachers and health workers in hard-to-reach areas should be prioritized,” he said.

    He appealed to the government to further subsidize the motorcycles so more workers could benefit.

    Explaining the process, Muhammad Yahyah, Head of Operations at Moure Consult Nigeria Limited, said the distribution was seamless and well-structured. 

    “We are the intermediary between the Kaduna State Government and the NLC, overseeing the distribution of both electric and fuel-powered motorcycles to civil servants,” he said.

    He added that applicants were required to obtain and submit forms through the NLC before verification and capturing in the database. “To safeguard beneficiaries’ interests, our partner, Optimus Bank, oversees the registration and account opening process,” he said.

    On the economic benefits of the initiative, he noted that the motorcycles—Harjung, Jingcheng, and electric models—were cost-effective and would boost productivity while easing transportation challenges for workers.

    Many workers who benefited from the scheme expressed their satisfaction.

    Micha Shabi, a Kaduna State civil servant and a Person with Disability (PWD), described the initiative as life-changing.

    “This is a great help to me. Before now, I used to spend nothing less than N2,500 to N5,000 daily on transportation for myself and my assistant. With this bike, things will be much easier,” he said.

    He praised the state government for ensuring inclusivity,  Saying “In this kind of gathering, to see someone without two eyes benefiting shows Kaduna’s commitment to inclusivity. This deserves commendation,” he added.

    Read Also: May Day: Gov Sani launches N500m revolving loans scheme for Kaduna workers

    Hadiza Rabiu, a school teacher, noted that teachers in Kaduna had endured transportation challenges for years, but the intervention was a game-changer.

    “For the past 8 to 9 years, Kaduna teachers have suffered. But with this collaboration between the Kaduna government, Moure Consult, and Optimus Bank, things are changing,” she said.

    Rabiu, who teaches in a hard-to-reach area, said she sometimes spent over N2,000 daily on transportation. She dismissed concerns about riding a motorcycle as a woman.

    “We are in a civilized society, and my work environment requires me to learn how to ride,” she stated.

    Sa’adatu Ahmed, a health worker, said the scheme would ease the financial burden of commuting.

    “I’ve been spending so much on commercial transport, which is frustrating. This loan will significantly reduce my costs,” she said.

    The scheme however targets civil servants, including teachers and health workers, who meet the eligibility criteria.

  • JUST IN: Bandits abduct 10 in Kaduna communities

    JUST IN: Bandits abduct 10 in Kaduna communities

    Suspected bandits have abducted ten villagers from three remote communities under Kajuru Local Government Area (LGA) of Kaduna State.

    The incidents occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, around 2am., when a group of armed bandits invaded the Unguwan Yashi-Maraban Kajuru community and kidnapped six persons.

    Those abducted were God-Dream Ladan, Lady God-Dream, Philip Mudakas, Mercy Philip, Bitrus Philip, and Gmen Philip.

    Similarly, in Makyali village, two persons sustained gunshot wounds and are currently receiving medical attention at Maraban Kajuru Hospital after bandits stormed the community.

    Two females – Rahina Yahaya and Zulai Yahaya – were also kidnapped in the village.

    The injured victims were identified as Ubale Yahaya and Abdullahi.

    It was gathered that the same group of bandits moved to Ungwan Mudi Doka around 4am and kidnapped two more persons – Amos Michael and Samita Amos.

    Tkough, the State Government and the Police Command were yet to comment on the incident, the Acting District Head of Kufana, Stephen Maikori,confirmed the incident to journalist on Thursday, saying that such attacks had reduced in the past but resurged this week.

    Read Also: Bandits abduct, kill Catholic Priest in Southern Kaduna

    “So far, ten people have been taken away, with two injured now receiving treatment. We are appealing for an intensified rapid security response and action to save lives and properties in this axis,” he said.

    He also added that the incident had been reported to security agencies accordingly.

    However, the State Police Command Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, could not be reached on the phone at the time of filing this report.

  • Kaduna distributes free farming equipment, inputs to boost agriculture

    Kaduna distributes free farming equipment, inputs to boost agriculture

    In a bid to enhance all-season farming, the Kaduna state overnment has commenced the distribution of free agricultural implements and inputs to farmers under cooperative groups.

    Each cooperative, comprising 10 members, received a package that included an 18-horsepower tiller, an 18-horsepower 3-inch solar-powered irrigation pumping machine, a 13-horsepower 2-inch solar-powered water irrigation machine, and a gasoline-powered irrigation pump. 

    Additionally, each group was given 30 bags of Urea and NPK fertilizers—three bags per member—along with a motorized knapsack sprayer, a carton of herbicide, and a carton of pesticide.

    The initiative follows the launch of the Dry Season Agricultural Empowerment Programme by Governor Uba Sani on February 16 at Murtala Square. 

    Read Also: Kaduna votes N5bn counterpart fund for BRT in 2025 budget

    The distribution began last Saturday at the Ministry of Agriculture’s central warehouse in Dankade village, with the Commissioner of Agriculture, Alhaji Murtala Mohammed Dabo, overseeing the process.

    Speaking at the event, Dabo described the large-scale distribution as unprecedented in Kaduna’s history, emphasizing that the support aims to ease the burden on farmers, particularly in light of rising petrol costs for irrigation.

    ‘’Fuelling their pumping machines on weekly basis eats into the profit margins that they would have naturally made. This massive support that is coming from His Excellency, the Governor, is going to help greatly in bringing down the cost of production, which should ultimately bring down prices,’’ he said.

    The Commissioner disclosed that the Uba Sani administration has also procured a Combined Harvester which will help farmers in reducing their cost of production.

    ‘’Last year, we had to go to Borno State to hire. The Wheat farmers in Galma were paying and queueing for their turn. Today, these machines are ready to move to the field and start harvesting,’’ he added.

    According to him, the benefitting cooperatives comprise real farmers who were chosen irrespective of their political affiliations or ethno-religious identities.

    Speaking to journalists, Malam Garba, the Chairman of Dry Season Farmers Cooperative Society Zaria, said that ‘’Today is a day of joy to all farmers in Kaduna state.’’

    ‘’Since Kaduna State was created, there has never been this kind of Government intervention. We have been given all that is required to enable dry season farming free,’’ he said.

    The chairman, who advised beneficiaries to put the implements into good use, further said that they should not sell the items, adding that ‘’government spent a lot of billions to purchase them and gave us free of charge.’’

  • How Kaduna issues land title in 24hours -KADGIS

    How Kaduna issues land title in 24hours -KADGIS

    Governor Uba Sani has simplified the processes of getting Certificates of Occupancy in Kaduna State, as investors, developers and the general public can now get the document within 24 hours.

    The Director General of Kaduna Geographic Information Services (KADGIS), Dr. Bashir Ibrahim Garba, said this improvement is part of the governor’s commitment to support the Ease of Doing Business in Kaduna State.

    Read Also: Kaduna votes N5bn counterpart fund for BRT in 2025 budget

    Dr. Garba stated that “Governor Uba Sani is one of the few governors in Nigeria that have achieved this success. He is committed to creating a conducive business environment that encourages investment and economic growth in Kaduna State, provides jobs and improves Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).”

    In a press statement issued on Saturday, the Director General enumerated the process to be followed in order to obtain an accelerated C of O which attracts a higher fee.

    “Upon acceptance of grant of Right of Occupancy perfection of deeds (in the case of assignment) and payment of all requisite fees, a Certificate of Occupancy is generated in KADGIS.

  • Kaduna votes N5bn counterpart fund for BRT in 2025 budget

    Kaduna votes N5bn counterpart fund for BRT in 2025 budget

    Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has allocated N30 billion in the state budget for the Kaduna Bus Rapid Transit (KBRT) Project, with N5 billion earmarked as counterpart funding for its commencement this month.

    The Director General of Kaduna State Transport Regulatory Authority (KADSTRA), Inuwa Ibrahim, disclosed this on Friday, emphasizing the governor’s commitment to modernizing urban transportation.

    Speaking at a press conference at the NUJ Press Centre, Kaduna, Ibrahim described the Kaduna BRT Project, set to launch next Tuesday, as a key milestone in the transformation of the state’s transport system. 

    He noted that the project aims to modernize public transportation, reduce traffic congestion, and improve the overall quality of life for residents.

    According to him, “A vision for an efficient Kaduna for years, Kaduna has faced transportation challenges, including congestion, unregulated commercial transport operations, and inefficiencies that affect the movement of people and goods. Recognizing the need for a structured and sustainable urban transport system, the KBRT Project was conceived to bring order, safety, and reliability to public transit,” he said.

    He explained that the “transformative project will introduce a 24-km dedicated transit corridor from Kawo Bridge to Sabon Tasha, with well-structured bus stations and shelters strategically placed along the route.

    “More than just an infrastructural development, KBRT represents a shift towards a modern, efficient, and environmentally friendly transportation system that will enhance mobility, stimulate economic growth, and create job opportunities for Kaduna residents.

    Read Also: Ex-Kaduna commissioners debunk alleged diversion of N1.37b under El-Rufai

    “The realization of this project would not have been possible without the unwavering support and decisive leadership of His Excellency, Governor Uba Sani. After years of planning and delays, the KBRT project faced the risk of further postponement. 

    “However, His Excellency intervened with bold financial commitments to ensure its actualisation. In 2023, Governor Uba Sani directed the release of N97 million as counterpart funding, a crucial move that revived the implementation of the project.”

    “Understanding the strategic importance of a well-functioning transport system, he further allocated N699 million in the 2024 budget to accelerate the execution of KBRT. In the 2025 budget, Governor Uba Sani has made a budgetary provision of N30 billion, with N5 billion set aside as part of the counterpart funding, reinforcing the commitment of his administration to seeing the project through to completion.

    This commitment underscores the Governor’s vision for a modern, inclusive, and economically vibrant Kaduna, where infrastructure development is at the heart of sustainable growth.”

    “The Kaduna State Transport Regulatory Authority (KADSTRA), in partnership with the French Development Agency (AFD), is kickstarting the implementation of KBRT Project. AFD plays a significant role globally in supporting sustainable development projects such as the KBRT, reinforcing its commitment to fostering urban growth, economic stability, and climate-friendly transportation systems worldwide. As the financier of this project, AFD has provided crucial support to ensure its success,” he said.

    “Moving forward, residents of Kaduna should expect to see visible progress, with the construction of transit corridors and the installation of necessary infrastructure.

    As the implementing Agency, KADSTRA recognise the critical role of the media in providing the necessary visibility for the KBRT project. Your support in informing and engaging the public will ensure that residents and stakeholders are carried along throughout the implementation process.”

    “The Kaduna Bus Rapid Transit (KBRT) Project is more than just a transport initiative: it is a game-.changer for the economy of Kaduna state and urban development. Through the commitment of His Excellency, Governor Uba Sani, and the dedication of all stakeholders, we are on track to transform the way Kaduna moves.

    We call on the public to support this project and embrace the new era of structured, modern, and efficient public transportation in Kaduna,” he concluded.