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  • Kaduna governor revokes land, houses sold by El-Rufai

    Kaduna governor revokes land, houses sold by El-Rufai

    Institutional houses and plots of land sold in Kaduna State by the administration of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai have been revoked by the state government.

    The revocation of the properties within Alhuda-huda College, Zaria; Queen Amina College, Kaduna and Government Commercial College, Zaria, was ordered yesterday by Governor Uba Sani.

    Secretary to the State Government (SSG) Dr. AbdulKadir Mu’azu Meyere, who announced the revocation in a statement, said decision was taken for overriding public interest and for the common good.

    He said efforts were being made to ensure all payments made to the government coffers in respect of the sold houses are refunded.

    “In line with its commitment to human capital development and to ensure conducive atmosphere for teaching and learning in schools, the Kaduna State Government, under the leadership of His Excellency, Senator Uba Sani, had revoked all previous sales of institutional houses and land allocations within Alhuda-huda College, Zaria, Queen Amina College, Kaduna and Government Commercial College, Zaria for overriding public interest and for the common good.

    Read Also: Atiku, El-Rufai face backlash over alliance plan

    “The revocation was approved last year and the revocation order has been conveyed to all allottees, while steps are being taken to refund amounts paid in respect of the sold houses as directed by His Excellency, the Governor of Kaduna State.

    “As one of the key pillars of His Excellency’s Human Capital Development, Uba Sani noted that effective learning can best take place in a conducive atmosphere without distractions and sundry interferences.

    “The governor has always argued that education is not just a leveler but also a ladder for upward mobility which can transform lives and improve livelihoods.

    “To secure the future of our children, the Governor has been expanding access to education in the last two years, by bridging the infrastructural deficit at both primary and secondary schools across Kaduna State.

    “In fact, one of the first decisions that His Excellency took upon assuming office was the slashing of the school fees of Kaduna State-own tertiary institutions on August 21, 2023.

    “Apart from tertiary institutions, the Senator Uba Sani administration has also improved access by building new primary and secondary schools as well as blocks of classrooms since he became Governor of Kaduna State.

    “Indeed, the Sani-led administration has built over 2,336 new classrooms, renovated more than 707 others and provided 3,704 and 30,742 furniture, for teachers and pupils.

    “Similarly, Kaduna State Government, has sunk 51 boreholes, provided 918 cubicle toilets for both pupils’ and teachers’ use in all the Local Governments to make learning more conducive,” the added.

  • Sani revokes schools quarters, lands sold by El-Rufai’s govt

    Sani revokes schools quarters, lands sold by El-Rufai’s govt

    Kaduna Governor Uba Sani has directed the revocation of institutional houses and land allocations within Alhuda-huda College, Zaria, Queen Amina College, Kaduna and Government Commercial College, Zaria sold by the immediate past administration of Malam Nasir El-Rufai.

    A statement on Tuesday night by the Secretary to Kaduna State Government, Dr AbdulKadir Mu’azu Meyere said, the houses and land allocations were revoked for overriding public interest and for the common good.

    The SSG however said efforts were being made to ensure all payments made to the government coffers in respect of the sold houses are refunded. 

    According to him:  “In line with its commitment to human capital development and to ensure conducive atmosphere for teaching and learning in schools, the Kaduna State Government, under the leadership of His Excellency, Senator Uba Sani, had revoked all previous sales of institutional houses and land allocations within Alhuda-huda College, Zaria, Queen Amina College, Kaduna and Government Commercial College, Zaria for overriding public interest and for the common good.

    Read Also: Kaduna has expanded access to tertiary education – Uba Sani

    “The revocation was approved last year and the revocation order has been conveyed to all allottees, while steps are being taken to refund amounts paid in respect of the sold houses as directed by His Excellency, the Governor of Kaduna State.

    “As one of the key pillars of His Excellency’s Human Capital Development, Senator Uba Sani noted that effective learning can best take place in a conducive atmosphere without distractions and sundry interferences.

    “The Governor has always argued that education is not just a leveller but also a ladder for upward mobility which can transform lives and improve livelihoods.

    “To secure the future of our children, the Governor has been expanding access to education in the last two years, by bridging the infrastructural deficit at both primary and secondary schools across Kaduna State.

    “In fact, one of the first decisions that His Excellency took upon assuming office was the slashing of the school fees of Kaduna State-own tertiary institutions on August 21, 2023.

    “Apart from tertiary institutions, the Senator Uba Sani administration has also improved access by building new primary and secondary schools as well as blocks of classrooms since he became Governor of Kaduna State.

    “Indeed, the Senator Uba Sani administration has built over 2,336 new classrooms, renovated more than 707 others and provided 3,704 and 30,742 furniture, for teachers and pupils respectively.

    “Similarly, Kaduna State Government, has sunk 51 boreholes, provided 918 cubicle toilets for both pupils’ and teachers’ use in all the Local Governments to make learning more conducive.”

  • Governor Sani slashes Kaduna tertiary tuition by 50%

    Governor Sani slashes Kaduna tertiary tuition by 50%

    Governor Uba Sani has announced a 50% reduction in tuition fees for all Kaduna State-owned tertiary institutions, describing it as a major step toward removing barriers to higher education.

    Speaking through his principal private secretary, Professor Bello Ayuba, at the inauguration of the Kaduna State University chapter of the Kaduna State Students Union, the governor said the policy has made it easier for students from low-income backgrounds to pursue university education in the state.

    He expressed gratitude to the students for presenting him with the Sword of Honour Award and for recognising the achievements of his administration, which were highlighted during the event’s public lecture.

    He promised, “Government will continue to support students and the youth generally to realize their ambitions. On your part, make sure that an atmosphere of peace prevails to allow for government’s development programmes to run their full course.’’

    The governor advised students not to allow agents of disunity and chaos to use them to destabilize their communities and steer them away from their career goals.

    Governor Uba Sani reminded the students and lecturers at the event that ‘’no meaningful development can be achieved in a state of chaos, disunity and mutual mistrust.’’  

    However, he said that ‘’going by your conduct over the period that I have been at the helm of affairs of our state so far, you are reliable partners of progress and I can count on you every step of the way.’’

    The governor recalled that Kaduna State was under siege owing to the insecurity in some of the local government areas, which had dire consequences on agricultural and business activities.

    Read Also: Uba Sani: Positioning Kaduna as agro-industrial giant

    He noted that the security challenges have now been drastically reduced owing to the combined commitment of security agencies, resulting in safer high ways, people returning to farms and the opening of local markets.

    The governor further said that the Birnin Gwari cattle market which had been closed for over 10 years, has been reopened, so have the other markets in security challenged areas in Giwa local government.

    Governor Uba Sani also said, ‘’In the last 22 months, we have embarked on the construction of over 78 road projects covering 775 kilometers out of which many have already been completed, most of them link roads in the rural areas.’’

    He added that General Hospitals are also being remodelled and a total of 255 healthcare centres are being upgraded , while more schools are being built and the existing ones are being refurbished to enable a more conducive teaching and learning atmosphere.

    Explaining why the governor was conferred with the Sword of Honour Award, the Students’ body commended him for the reduction in tuition fees and the establishment of new faculties in the school.

    The union also said that Governor Uba Sani’s ‘’decision to facilitate the CBN Intervention Project for the Faculty of Engineering at KASU is a testament to your vision for building a brighter future for the youth.’’

    ‘’Furthermore, your directive to KASU management to allow all students to sit for examinations regardless of outstanding fees underscores your deep concern for the less privileged, ensuring that no student is left behind due to financial constraints,’’ it said.

    According to the union, Governor Uba Sani has truly redefined the concept of good governance by prioritising education, infrastructural development and youth empowerment.

  • Sani appoints Emir of Kauru as Amirul Hajj for 2025 Pilgrimage

    Sani appoints Emir of Kauru as Amirul Hajj for 2025 Pilgrimage

    Gov.Uba Sani of Kaduna State has appointed the Emir of Kauru, Alhaji Ya’u Shehu-Usman, as the Amirul Hajj and leader of the state’s delegation for the 2025 Hajj exercise.

    The appointment is contained in a statement issued on Monday in Kaduna by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ibraheem Musa.

    According to him, the emir’s appointment is in recognition of his dedication to selfless service, integrity, and outstanding leadership in human management.

    Read Also: Kaduna traders, women groups protest against El-Rufai, rally support for Gov Sani, Tinubu 

    Musa said the emir would collaborate with the State Special Hajj Committee and relevant agencies at the state, federal, and international levels to ensure a seamless and successful pilgrimage.

    The governor congratulated the emir on his well-deserved appointment.

    He also urged him to leverage his vast experience and leadership skills in carrying out the task.

    The governor prayed for Allah’s guidance and protection for him in the discharge of his duties.

    (NAN)

  • JUST IN: Gov Sani receives 59 rescued kidnap victims in Kaduna 

    JUST IN: Gov Sani receives 59 rescued kidnap victims in Kaduna 

    • …warns against politicization of security 

    Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has received 59 kidnapped victims who were rescued by security forces in an operation coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu.

    Speaking over the weekend, Governor Sani cautioned politicians against exploiting security challenges for political gain, warning that such actions endanger innocent lives.

    He vowed to take action against individuals who deliberately fuel insecurity to advance their political interests, stating, “The merchants of insecurity will not be happy with the release of these innocent souls because they are benefiting from insecurity.”

    “As an elected Governor, I swore to protect the lives and property of the people of Kaduna State and we have been doing our best to fulfill this obligation.

    “Through our Kaduna Peace Model which emphasises the use of non-kinetic approach, Birnin Gwari which used to be ‘a no-go area’ for most people has become peaceful.

    Read Also: Gov Sani mobilizes contractor for Kagarko township roads

    “Bandits have laid down their arms and markets that have been closed down for over 10 years have now been reopened and business activities have started booming in Birnin Gwari and parts of Giwa local government which was ravaged by insecurity,’’ he added.

    Governor Uba Sani promised that the people of Kauru, Kajuru and parts of Kachia who are experiencing pockets of bandit attacks, will soon be “sleeping with their two eyes closed because security forces are on top of the situation.’’

    According to the Governor, ‘the success that the non-kinetic approach has yielded is a source of anger to most people who don’t have the welfare or wellbeing of our people at heart. They only go on social media to express their anger.”

    Governor Uba Sani said that he does not mind if political opponents insult him on social media but promised to ‘’deal with those whose past time is to spread lies and politicise insecurity in Kaduna State.”

    “Politicising insecurity is not opposition and those elites who are doing so on social media don’t really care about the masses. They are just posting messages to further their political interests,’ he added.

    The Governor recalled that the 59 released kidnapped victims were given psycho-social therapy and treatment by the Kaduna State Government for 11 days, adding that one of them is still undergoing treatment.

    He promised that his administration will support the victims to get back on their feet, by giving them grants to continue with their businesses and farming activities.

    Speaking earlier, Pastor Danlami Mutane who commended the Government for taking good care of them, further thanked the National Security Adviser for facilitating their release.

    Similarly, Malama Raliya Ibrahim thanked Governor Uba Sani and the Commissioner of Human Services and Social Development, Hajiya Rabi Salisu, for the support that was extended to them.

  • Small businesses critical to Nigeria’s economic development – Gov Sani

    Small businesses critical to Nigeria’s economic development – Gov Sani

    Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has identified Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) as critical to Nigeria’s economic development. 

    He said his administration has empowered over 4,000 young individuals in the state to enable them pursue their entrepreneurial aspirations.

    The governor stated this during the Kaduna state special day at the ongoing 46th Kaduna International Trade Fair organized annually by the Kaduna Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KADCCIMA).

    Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Abdulkadir Muazu Meyere, Governor Sani said his administration has equally initiated training and empowerment programs for women and youth in agriculture, dairy, and poultry production in collaboration with the International Development Association (IDA) as part of the Commercial Agriculture Development Project (CADP).

    He said: “Our commitment to supporting small-scale enterprises is unwavering. Recently, His Exellency, Senator Uba Sani led administration constructed Business Support and Skills Acquisition Centres across three strategic Local Governments and collaborated with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) to enhance the growth of SMEs.

    Read Also: UDUS students lament unavailability of sanitary pads at shops on campus

    “I would like to emphasize the critical role of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in our economy. His Excellency Senator Uba Sani, The Executive Governor of Kaduna State through the Kaduna Enterprise Development Agency has empowered over 4,000 young individuals in the state, enabling them to pursue their entrepreneurial aspirations.

    “Furthermore, This administration has initiated training and empowerment programs for women and youth in agriculture, dairy, and poultry production in collaboration with the International Development Association (IDA) as part of the Commercial Agriculture Development Project (CADP).

    “Additionally, our One State One Product (OSOP) initiative aims to identify key products for each state that can generate foreign exchange. This program will be expanded to local governments to maximize its impact,” he said.

    Speaking to the theme of the 46th Kaduna International Trade Fair, the Governor said, “for 45 years, this fair has provided a unique platform for exhibitors, businesses, and industries to showcase their innovations, engage with partners, and connect with new customers. Such initiatives are vital for our collective growth and the enhancement of our economy.

    “The theme of this year’s trade fair: “Promoting Efficiency in Manufacturing, Agriculture, and Trade through Digital Transformation.”reflects KADCCIMA’s dedication to fostering national prosperity through innovation and collaboration. It is essential for West Africa and the broader African region to work together to achieve progress and economic stability.

    “A nation’s competitiveness hinges on its industries’ ability to innovate and adapt. While no country can excel in every sector, success often stems from a dynamic and challenging home environment that fosters growth.

    “Kaduna State is a steadfast partner of KADCCIMA and will continue to provide the necessary support for the Chamber’s endeavors. I encourage KADCCIMA to further educate its members and local investors on leveraging the resources available through the Chamber, the Nigerian Shippers Council, the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, and the Kaduna Inland Dry Port, ensuring smooth and efficient logistics for their goods,”  he said.

    He, however, urged the Chamber to utilize its facilities beyond the annual trade fair, saying that, the Trade Fair Complex has immense potential for various activities if strategically planned.

    Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Business, Innovation, and Technology, Mrs Patience Fakai emphasized the state’s potential for economic excellence, noting that, the administration of Governor Uba Sani has prioritized digital infrastructure development, earning Kaduna State the Broadband Infrastructure Award for pioneering broadband-friendly policies.

    The Commissioner highlighted the state’s commitment to promoting efficiency in manufacturing, agriculture, and trade through digital transformation.

    She however invited participants to join the state’s journey to economic prosperity, emphasizing the importance of innovation, entrepreneurship, and partnerships to drive growth.

    Highlight of the event was a tour of the 23 local government areas’ stands at the Kaduna State’s Pavilion, where several mineral resources and agricultural products from each area were on display.

  • Kaduna LGA seeks, Tinubu, Sani’s intervention to end 21-year political marginalisation

    Kaduna LGA seeks, Tinubu, Sani’s intervention to end 21-year political marginalisation

    Indigenes of Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State have cried out over alleged 21-year political marginalisation in Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency, calling for urgent intervention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani.

    The indigenes, who addressed a press conference at Kasuwan Magani under the auspices of Coalition of Pressure Groups and Socio-cultural Organisations in Kajuru LGA said, Kajuru has not had the chance to represent the Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency in the National Assembly for the past 21 years.

    Speaking on behalf of the Coalition, its Secretary, Comrade Joel Onoma Marcus said, due to the political marginalisation, Kajuru Local Government has suffered serious neglect, with no presence of federal projects in the area.

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    According to Marcus who was flanked by the Chairman of the Coalition and other stakeholders from the LGA said, Kajuru is blessed with a pool of young, energetic, philanthropic, promising and goal-oriented politicians who are capable of steering the affairs of the constituency for the greater good of all, one of whom he said, is an aspirant under the ruling APC who has shown his capability in his philanthropic activities over the years.

    “Since the return of Democracy in 1999, Kajuru was only lucky between 1999-2003 to represent Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency for one tenure. The next representative from Chikun Local Government Area mounted the mantle and continued from 2003 to 2023. That’s a period of 21 years despite the fact that there was a power rotation agreement between the two local governments.”

    “Till date, Kajuru cannot boast of a single federal presence within the local government and most employment slots and empowerment opportunities never get to the citizens of Kajuru. The interests and yearnings of the people are not heard nor attended to.

    “Kajuru has remained underdeveloped with little or no federal infrastructures as obtainable in other constituencies like schools, hospitals, skills acquisition centers etc. Her many natural and human resources have remained untapped, despite agriculture being the pride of the area as home to many food and cash crops like maize, rice, soya beans, yam, potatoes, cocoyams, tomatoes, pepper, ginger, groundnuts, mangoes, shea butter, bambara nuts, and so many economic trees and shrubs for herbal purposes….

  • Tinubu’s reforms will reset Nigeria’s economy – Gov Sani, Alake

    Tinubu’s reforms will reset Nigeria’s economy – Gov Sani, Alake

    Kaduna state governor, Uba Sani, and the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, have reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision, expertise, and bold approach to resetting Nigeria’s economy through various reforms and policies aimed at improving the lives of citizens.

    The duo made these remarks on Tuesday at a one-day lecture organized by the Arewa Think Tank (ATT) in Kaduna, themed “Agricultural Perspective of Nigeria in the Last 64 Years of Independence.”

    Speaking at the event, Minister Alake highlighted Tinubu’s track record of implementing transformative policies, recalling his tenure as Lagos State Governor in 1999.

    “When Bola Tinubu became governor, he introduced a biometric register for civil servants, which faced significant opposition because it blocked loopholes that some individuals were exploiting. 

    “Today, he is applying the same strategy at the national level—blocking financial leakages and plugging loopholes. Naturally, those who have benefited from these loopholes will resist,” Alake stated.

    Read Also: Brain drain: Our hospitals may soon be empty, CMDs cry out

    Governor Sani and the minister expressed confidence that Tinubu’s ongoing reforms would bring long-term economic stability and prosperity to Nigeria despite current challenges and resistance from vested interests.

    “We are witnessing the resistance all over the country. But you need a man of courage to stay firm for justice. Because of Tinubu’s steadfastness, consistency and resilience he waded through all those obstacles and resistance and turned around the economy of Lagos.

    “Today Lagos has the 6th largest economy in the whole of Africa. It is not by accident. It is by calculated and meticulous execution of those policies. Today Lagos economy is one of the largest economy among 20 African countries. 

    “This is where President Bola Tinubu is taking Nigeria. We need to support Tinubu whom God has given the vision, knowledge and courage to take the country out of the quagmire we found ourselves in the last several decades.

    “Future generations will not forgive us if we shy away from temporary pain which was the pain of previous governments which lacked knowledge to better the society and because of lack of knowledge they recoiled into their shells because they didn’t want to lose the next election. They didn’t want to lose in this area, they didn’t want to lose that area. 

    “It takes a man of courage not to give a damn about the next election but to give more damn about the prosperity and standardisation of the society. That is what Bola Ahmed Tinubu is doing for Nigeria. He is a man vision, knowledge and courage.

    “He envisions what is good for the country, he the knowledge of what is good for the country and he has the courage to bring them to reality. Not all leaders have these qualities. Some have one of the qualities, others have two of the qualities. It is only Tinubu that has the three qualities. We are going to revive Nigeria in all its ramifications. President Tinubu’s 7-point agenda will take Nigeria to greater heights”.

    Governor Uba Sani acknowledged that the implementation of the president’s  bold policies have not been without challenges and pains for Nigerians but clarified that the pains are  temporary.

    He said with  just a little more patience and perseverance ‘’we shall start reaping the fruits of the reforms.

    “In fact, we are already turning the corner. The economy is fast improving. Very soon the positive impact of the reforms would be felt by Nigerians. What the President needs at this critical time is the support of our people,’’ he added.

    “The Renewed Hope Agenda is President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visionary and transformative policy thrust, aimed at repositioning Nigeria as a global investment hub.

    “The Agenda which is anchored on the core pillars of democracy, development and diaspora engagement, is being vigorously pursued with courage and patriotic zeal,’’ he further said.

    “According to the Governor,  the transformation of Nigeria and giving Nigerians a new lease of life  must give priority attention to Agriculture.

    “Governor Uba Sani recalled  that ‘’at independence, Agriculture was the mainstay of the Nigerian economy. The three regions effectively utilized resources from Agriculture to build critical infrastructure and develop human capital.

    He lamented that ‘’due to the discovery of oil, we abandoned Agriculture. We are the poorer for it. We must return to Agriculture and invest heavily in it. It holds the key to addressing the challenges of poverty, unemployment and insecurity.”

    The governor, however, maintained that ‘’President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is already showing us the way. His administration has prioritized Agriculture and is investing heavily in mechanization and empowerment of smallholder farmers.’’

    According to Governor Uba Sani, Tinubu’s  investment in Agriculture is unequalled in the history of administrations in Nigeria.

    “Mr. President has equally been giving sustained assistance to subnationals in respect of funds and agricultural inputs. Mr. President recently made history by creating the Ministry of Livestock Development which holds the potential of making Nigeria the leading producer of livestock in Africa,’’ he added.

    The Governor said that  the main policy thrust of his  administration is Rural Transformation of Kaduna State, adding that ‘’we are committed to promoting  accelerated rural development by extending infrastructure to all local government areas with the goal of supporting our rural communities to achieve rapid economic growth.’’

    Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, chairman of the occasion and former Chief of Defence Staff, retired General Martin Luther Agwai, the Minister and Governor Uba Sani were all given awards by the Arewa Think Tank.

  • Governor Sani’s achievements unmatched in Kaduna’s history, says PPA

    Governor Sani’s achievements unmatched in Kaduna’s history, says PPA

    The Principal Private Secretary (PPS) to Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, Prof. Ayuba Bello, has commended the governor for his remarkable achievements within a short time in office, stating that no administration in the state’s history has accomplished such feats.  

    Prof. Ayuba made this assertion on Thursday while interacting with journalists in Kaduna during an end-of-year gathering. 

    He highlighted the governor’s numerous accomplishments over the past 18 months, noting that the list shared was merely a summary of the administration’s successes.  

    The PPS expressed optimism about the governor’s commitment to sustaining and surpassing these milestones, emphasizing the administration’s dedication to the development and progress of Kaduna State.

    “This is not a speech-making event. It is just an occasion for us to fraternise and unwind, more so as the year is winding down. But as we all know, where two or three journalists are gathered, the discussion almost always gravitates towards politics and governance. For this reason, I want to give you a summary of the unprecedented achievements of the Executive Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani in the last 18 months. No doubt, there has never been any administration in the history of Kaduna State, which achieved so much, within a short time and with limited resources, like the Government of Senator Uba Sani.

    “In less than two years, the Governor Uba Sani administration in Kaduna State has been rapidly transforming rural communities through massive infrastructural development, revival and revitalization of the health and educational sectors, frontally fighting poverty, and strengthening partnership with security forces to secure the State. In the area of security, the Government has forged a solid partnership with federal security forces to secure Kaduna State, by giving them logistics support to enhance their operations. 

    “Governor Uba Sani distributed 150 operational vehicles and 500 motorcycles to them and the Kaduna State Vigilance Service (KADVS) to boost their operations. Besides that, the Governor has recently signed the Kaduna State Security Trust Fund Bill into Law. The Trust Fund will raise funds for the acquisition and deployment of even more security equipment, personnel and materials as well as training of security personnel.

    “Through the efforts of the Peace Dialogue Group established by the Kaduna State Government in collaboration with federal agencies and security services, peace has returned to Birnin Gwari. On November 29, the Governor reopened the famous and strategic Birnin Gwari Market which had been closed for about 10 years, thus signalling the commencement of commercial activities. Above all, the long-abandoned Birnin Gwari Road has come back to life. Similarly, the Kidandan market in Giwa local government of Kaduna State, which had not been patronised for several years owing to insecurity, has been opened. Indeed, this marks the beginning of the return of peace and stability to Giwa local government.

    Significantly, Governor Uba Sani has been embarking on a massive rural development by extending infrastructure development to all local government areas, with the goal of supporting rural communities to achieve rapid economic growth and development.

     “In this regard, the Government has undertaken 68 road projects, covering a total of approximately 700 kilometres, across the three senatorial districts. Human Capital Development is one of the pivots of Governor Uba Sani’s administration and for this reason, it has improved access to education and revived the health sector. So far, the Kaduna State Government has built 62 new secondary schools, comprising 39 Junior and 23 Senior Secondary Schools, across the three senatorial districts. Besides, approval has been given for the construction of an additional 50 secondary schools across the state and upon completion, these new schools are expected to enrol over 100,000 students, further solidifying Kaduna State’s commitment to providing inclusive and accessible education for all. Also, 2,000 qualified teachers have been recruited, awaiting deployment to these newly completed schools.

    “In addition, the Government has constructed 2,326 new classrooms, renovated 707 classrooms, supplied 30,742 two-seater pupil’s furniture, provided 3,704 Teachers Furniture, and constructed 918 VIP Cubicle Toilets and 51 hand pump boreholes in schools across the State.

    “Significantly, the administration is building three Vocational and Technological Skills Acquisition Cities to equip youths with the requisite skills to enable them to take up jobs in industries and other businesses. The Skills Cities will graduate at least 12,000 youths annually.

    “In addition, the Government is remodelling the Panteka Market in Kaduna to become a major centre for skills acquisition, engaging over 38,000 artisans. A comprehensive infrastructure upgrade is being carried out to make it an international centre for skills acquisition and job creation. Besides, the Kaduna State Government is collaborating with the National Board for Technical

    “Education (NBTE) to provide Nigerian Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF) certification for graduates of the Skills Cities and Panteka Market. Specifically, Governor Uba Sani is carrying out a surgical operation in the healthcare sector because he wants to deliver a top-notch healthcare system that addresses the needs of the people. The administration is working day and night to complete the ultra-modern Specialist Hospital at Millennium City, Kaduna. On Wednesday, 27th November 2024, the Governor commissioned the remodelled, upgraded and fully equipped Dabo Lere Memorial Hospital, Kaduna.

    “He has embarked on the remodelling, equipping and upgrading of 13 General Hospitals in the 3 Senatorial Zones of the State. This includes General Hospital Gwantu, General Hospital Rigasa, General Hospital Maigana, and in Sanga, Igabi and Soba local governments respectively, as some of the hospitals that have been remodelled, equipped and upgraded.

    “Others are Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa, Kafanchan, in Jema local government; General Hospital Giwa, in Giwa local government and Ikara General Hospital, located at Kara local government. The rest are General Hospital Sabon Tasha, Chikun LGA; General Hospital Saminaka, Lere LGA, and General Hospital Kachia, Kachia LGA.

    “Governor Uba Sani has placed agriculture at the centre of Kaduna State’s development agenda. In the last 18 months, Kaduna State has become a beacon of hope for smallholder farmers, an engine of economic growth, and a model of agricultural excellence. Under the remarkable palliative program, Sustainable Livelihoods through Social Interventions and Economic Empowerment, the Get Back to the Farm initiative has breathed new life into the agricultural sector. 

    “Government has distributed vital inputs-high-quality seeds, fertilizers, agrochemicals, and farming equipment to 41,693 smallholder farmers and cooperatives across all 23 LGAs. This initiative is a game-changer for our farmers, restoring their livelihoods and driving increased productivity across the state.

    “Significantly, the Uba Sani administration undertook the largest Free Fertilizer Distribution in Kaduna State’s history, with the distribution of 500 trucks of fertilizer from which 240,000 bags were given out free to 120,000 smallholder farmers. The Government has also invested heavily in both mechanization and micro-mechanization of the agricultural sector. Indeed, the last time the State invested in mechanization through the procurement of Tractors was in 2010 but this Government has procured 12 heavy-duty tractors that can handle large-scale commercial farming and complex and difficult farming operations.

    “Since he assumed office in May 2023, Governor Uba Sani has placed a high premium on bringing succour to the poor, vulnerable and underserved in Kaduna State. In this regard, he has been carrying out pro-poor measures to bring needed relief to Kaduna State citizens, first by signing an Executive Order on Financial Inclusion. By so doing, the Governor has shown commitment to addressing the exclusion of the poor, under-served and vulnerable from financial services and ensuring that they benefit from social intervention programs of Kaduna State and the Federal Government.

    “The aim is to empower people with tools like savings accounts, credit, insurance, and digital payment options, enabling them to participate in the formal financial system, manage their finances, and build economic resilience.

    In addition, the Kaduna State Government has forged a significant partnership with Google Africa for the ArewaTech4Ladies Skills Development Project.

    “Through this collaboration, it has empowered 5,000 women and girls with skills in data science, Artificial Intelligence and entrepreneurial applications of digital technologies. Through the Kaduna State Enterprise Development Agency (KADEDA), the Government has supported 8,649 nano and micro businesses with grants to expand their business operations. The support ranged from N300,000, N200,000, N150,000, N100,000, to N50,000.

    “The poverty alleviation programme, “A Kori Talauchi programme” has empowered 4,912 underserved women across the state. Furthermore, the Government has supported another 100 food vendors at the Kaduna Food Festival 2024, which took place from April 11th to 14th 2024 at Murtala Square, Kaduna. The festival was a vibrant celebration of the rich culinary diversity of Kaduna and Northern Nigeria, designed to showcase a spectrum of local culinary art and street food. The festival attracted more than 2,000 guests daily, providing women with the platform to showcase their local businesses.

    “Significantly, Kaduna State Government has instituted a Revolving Loan Scheme to enable civil servants to meet financial needs with seed funds of five hundred million Naira (N500,000,000) at a single-digit rate of five percent (5%). This initiative aims to promote access to funds for civil servants to meet financial obligations. More so, the administration has been clearing pension arrears. The State Government has to date paid approximately four billion, seven hundred million Naira (N4.7 bn) for clearance of death and gratuity benefits.

    “As servants of the people, the Uba Sani Government places a great premium on accountability. Transparency and accountability are not principles to be trifled with. Last month, the Centre for Fiscal Transparency and Public Integrity Watch (CeFTP|W) ranked Kaduna State as the first subnational in its Transparency and Public Integrity Index. The ranking which was done for the entire 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, placed Kaduna State as number 1, with a score of 51. 42, in its 2024 Integrity Index Report. CeFTPIW is a non-governmental organization established in 2016 to promote good governance, by strengthening transparency and accountability in public institutions and organizations. In addition, Kaduna State came second out of thirty-six (36) states in the ICAN Accountability and Transparency Index, reflecting its commitment to transparency, accountability, and effective resource utilization.

    “In the last 18 months, the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) profile of Kaduna State has improved. Last November, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) released the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of all in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Kaduna State raked in N62.49 billion last year, emerging the state with the highest IGR earnings in the north. Governor Uba Sani’s policy of financial inclusion and widening the tax net as well as reorganising the entire Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS) is responsible for this feat.

    “Since he came on board, KADIRS has been expanding the tax net in a horizontal manner as against the vertical approach of the past which led to stagnation. Above all, the policies of the Uba Sani administration which have a human face, have made businesses and companies that have left Kaduna State in the past, to return. Coupled with that, he has initiated a lot of business-friendly policies which are having positive impact on revenue generation. In addition, the rural transformation of the Kaduna State Government has improved voluntary tax compliance because people can see how their money is being spent.

    “Besides, KADIRS is effectively deploying technology in its operations to ensure effective service delivery to taxpayers.

    A major component of the Uba Sani Governance Agenda is Nurturing Citizen Engagement, to carry the people along in decision-making processes, especially on how their resources are allocated.

    “Consequently, the Government has been holding Town Hall Meetings and consultations with critical stakeholders like Traditional Rulers, Religious Leaders, Elders/Influential Citizens, and Leaders of Women and Youth Groups, as well as Development Organizations, on major Government policies and programmes, especially the yearly budget proposal.

    This is just the tip of the iceberg of what Comrade, Senator, Dr, Malam Uba Sani has accomplished in the last 18 months as the Governor of Kaduna State,” Ayuba stated.

  • Council chair lauds Gov Sani over domestication of WEE Policy in Kaduna

    Council chair lauds Gov Sani over domestication of WEE Policy in Kaduna

    Kaduna state governor, Senator Uba Sani, has been lauded by the Soba LocalGgovernment chairman, Muhammad Lawal Shehu, for the domestication of the National Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE Policy), making the state the first subnational to domesticate the policy in Nigeria.

    In his remarks at a well-attended event on Friday 23rd November 2024, Governor Uba Sani had stated that the policy will not just be a document; but a promise to invest in the potentials of women and youths by providing them with the necessary resources, skills, and opportunities to succeed.

    The chairman of Soba LGA, while congratulating the women of Kaduna State, stated that Kaduna State has continued to lead the way in women empowerment and inclusion, which is in line with the governance and development agenda of the current administration.

    Shehu noted: “Governor Uba Sani prioritizes women and youth in all development plans, recognizing that peace and stability are essential for their growth. The Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE) Policy is indeed a commitment to unlocking their potentials by providing resources, skills, and opportunities. Empowering women economically is crucial for sustainable development, and on my part I will work to ensure they have access to education, financial services, and entrepreneurial opportunities.

    “In Soba local government area, our administration will align with His Excellency Senator Uba Sani’s efforts to support women through economic empowerment, he added.

    Read Also: 65,848 women have benefited from Kaduna’s Conditional Cash Transfer Scheme – Sani

    “As our agenda aligns with the State Government’s blueprint, women and girls in Soba will be empowered with the necessary skills, resources, and opportunities to compete favourably in the economy.

    “Soba local government will leverage the Council’s rich agricultural potentials to ensure the initiative’s success.

    “The National Women Economic Empowerment (WEE) Policy is a strong planning tool for coordination of donor programs and for private sector investment in the economy and a smart way for state governments to bring together all women-focused programs, projects, and activities under one roof to improve coordination, optimize use of resources, and avoid duplication,” he said.