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Tag: Uba Sani

  • Uba Sani to construct largest bus terminal in Nigeria

    Uba Sani to construct largest bus terminal in Nigeria

    Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has said that his administration will construct what promises to be the largest inter-state bus terminal in Nigeria, in terms of size and infrastructure.

    Performing the ground breaking on Sunday, the Governor said that the terminal will be located on 20 hectares of land along the Eastern Bypass in Chikun Local Government Area.

    The Governor also disclosed that the Ultra-Modern Inter-State Bus Terminal will operate as a dual terminal with the capacity to accommodate over 5,000 vehicles, supported by intelligent traffic management systems and advanced surveillance architecture.

    ‘’The facility will feature escalators and elevators, ensuring accessibility for all users, including the elderly and persons with disabilities,’’ Governor Uba Sani maintained.

    He said that the terminal will host refueling stations for petrol, diesel, and compressed natural gas (CNG), positioning Kaduna State at the forefront of sustainable transport innovation.

    ‘’A three-star hotel within the complex will cater to travellers, drivers, and visitors, offering comfort, rest, and convenience. This is not merely infrastructure of concrete and steel; it is a fully integrated mobility ecosystem; safe, efficient, transparent, and future-ready,’’ he promised.

    Governor Uba Sani also pointed out that the project is also a major economic catalyst.

    ‘’By anchoring it along the revitalised Eastern Bypass corridor, we are decongesting the city centre, improving connectivity between intra-city and inter-state travel, and enhancing security surveillance.

    Read Also: Southern Kaduna commends Tinubu, Uba Sani over efforts to tackle insecurity

    ‘’Thousands of direct and indirect jobs will be created: drivers, technicians, artisans, traders, service providers, and young entrepreneurs will all find opportunity within the economic ecosystem this terminal will generate,’’ he added.

    The Governor argued that investing in modern mobility infrastructure also addresses structural vulnerabilities that often fuel crime and instability, adding that ‘’in doing so, we are reinforcing peace and security not only in Kaduna State, but across the wider North-West region.’’

    According to him, Sunday’s groundbreaking is part of a broader, deliberate, and carefully sequenced transformation of Kaduna State’s transport ecosystem.

    He recalled that Kaduna State Government has deployed 100 free CNG buses since the middle of last year, which have conveyed over 1.4 million passengers, saving commuters almost ₦1.5 billion in transport costs.

    The Governor said that ‘’this initiative has reduced household expenditure, lowered emissions, eased traffic congestion, and improved daily mobility for workers, students, and traders.’’

    Governor Uba Sani noted that Kaduna State has historically occupied a strategic position as a link between regions, markets, and productive sectors in the country.

    ‘’However, for many years, this advantage was weakened by fragmented and inadequate transport arrangements that placed avoidable burdens on travellers, traders, and transport operators,’’ he lamented.

    According to him, inter-state travel is being defined by congestion, disorder, and insecurity as ‘’families waited endlessly in unsafe conditions. Traders lost productive hours at overcrowded terminals. Young people began journeys burdened by uncertainty rather than confidence.’’

    ‘’Today, we draw a firm line beneath that history. With this project, we are replacing disorder with structure, vulnerability with safety, and inconvenience with dignity,’’ he said.

    Governor Uba Sani said that the terminal is designed to consolidate scattered, unsafe, and unregulated motor parks into a single, professionally managed, technology-enabled facility.

    ‘’It will strengthen regulatory oversight, restore confidence in public transport, and guarantee the right of every citizen to safe and dignified mobility. Order will replace chaos; transparency will replace opacity; accountability will replace arbitrariness,’’ he said.

    The Uba Sani administration has also completed 200 modern bus stops across Kaduna State, providing safe, organised, and dignified waiting spaces for passengers.

    He disclosed that the Kakuri Modern Bus Terminal, which will serve as the Southern Transport Hub, ‘’has reached 90 percent completion, while the redevelopment of the Sobawa Motor Park currently stands at 50 percent completion, progressing steadily toward delivery.’’

    The Governor promised that ‘’by March 2026, we will break ground for the Kaduna Light Rail Project, featuring a 30-kilometre Red Line from Rigachikun to Sabon Tasha and a 20-kilometre Yellow Line from Millennium City to Rigasa.

    According to him, this transformative project will redefine urban mobility and reduce pressure on our road networks.

    ‘’We are also launching a 24-kilometre Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridor from Kawo to Sabon Tasha, supported by 30 modern stations and 120 buses, designed to move large volumes of people efficiently, affordably, and reliably.

    ‘’ These initiatives are not isolated projects; they form an integrated, multimodal transport system designed to serve every segment of our society; urban and rural, young and old, rich and poor.

    Governor Uba Sani recalled that the investment in transport sector has earned national recognition for Kaduna State under his leadership in the last two and half years.

    ‘’At the National Urban Mobility Conference held in Abuja on January 22, 2026, Kaduna State was ranked second in Nigeria for sustainable urban mobility, in recognition of our transport sector reforms.

    ‘’ We are also proud that Kaduna State is the first in Northern Nigeria and the second nationally after Lagos, to develop a comprehensive State Transport Policy, providing a clear legal and strategic framework for long-term planning.

    The Governor said that ‘’when the history of this era is written, let it be recorded that Kaduna State chose planning over improvisation, inclusion over exclusion, and sustainability over short-term fixes.

    ‘’We are not merely building terminals, buses, and rail lines; we are building confidence, restoring trust, and laying foundations for enduring prosperity,’’ he pointed out.

  • Sani puts people first in fight for Kaduna peace

    Sani puts people first in fight for Kaduna peace

    By Zangon Bitrus

    In recent years, Kaduna State has often featured in headlines for all the wrong reasons. Stories of kidnappings, banditry, and violence across rural communities painted a picture of a state in distress. But under Governor Uba Sani’s leadership, there has been a huge shift. Nowhere was this more evident than in his recent visit to the community of Kurmin Wali in Kajuru Local Government Area, where over 170 Christian worshippers were recently abducted by bandits. They were abducted during a Sunday church service, sparking outrage and renewed calls to end mass kidnappings in the state.

    Rather than simply issuing a statement from afar, the governor travelled to the scene, offering sympathy and a commitment to the return of the abducted citizens. This kind of leadership that prioritises human life over political gain is both rare and necessary in times of crisis. In a moment that could have easily become another political talking point, his presence reassured residents that their government felt their pain and was determined to see them safe again. But during his visit to Kurmin Wali, Sani’s message was clear.

    “In Kaduna State, every life matters,” he said.

    “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. 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 the government remains the same.”

    At Kurmin Wali, Sani was briefed by the traditional ruler, His Highness, the Agwam Kufana, Mr Dauda Titus. Thereafter, the governor pledged that medical care for the injured would be provided by the state and ordered improvements to infrastructure, like the access road to the community.

    He emphasised collaboration with security agencies and urged the establishment of a permanent military base in Kurmin Wali to enhance security and prevent future attacks. Writing on his Facebook page, Sani warned ‘conflict merchants and political opportunists’ not to exploit the misfortune as: “Such actions undermine unity, weaken trust, and embolden criminality.”

    The governor was accompanied 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.

    Under Sani, insecurity is not addressed in a reactionary manner, focusing mainly on the use of force. Yes, weapons and arrests have a place, but real, enduring peace requires economic empowerment, education, and inclusion. Rather, his administration approaches the problem holistically, with emphasis on cooperation, understanding the root causes, and proffering real solutions. In past addresses, Sani has highlighted how poverty, unemployment, and the neglect of rural areas fuel banditry and criminality. This recognition is significant because it moves the conversation beyond purely kinetic solutions. It also birthed what is now known as the ‘Kaduna Peace Model’ – a collaboration between different stakeholders across communities in the state, state and federal security agencies.

    This model, which stresses kinetic and non-kinetic measures, is a collaboration that has yielded success. Through it, communities like Birnin Gwari, which residents abandoned for close to a decade, are now bustling with life and commerce. And in this new year, efforts are not being relaxed.

    For 2026, the state government is budgeting 70 per cent for capital projects. This is a reflection of the importance of building a greater tomorrow in Kaduna. Also, in the 2026 budget, it allocated N100 million to each of the 255 wards in the state to support direct, community-focused development projects in the health, education, agriculture, and social sectors. In addition, recognising that agriculture employs about 70 per cent of the state’s population, the Sani-led administration has continuously invested in farmers. Deploying a ‘farmer-first’ policy, the state government targeted smallholder farmers, distributing free fertiliser on a large scale, integrated mechanisation and supported cooperatives. Kaduna also partnered with the Africa Development Bank (AfDB) to establish a Special Agro-Processing Zone (SAPZ) in the state.

    The Sani-led administration also took big strides in the education sector. In fact, the governor’s first Executive Order was the reduction of fees in all state-owned tertiary institutions by 40 per cent. And just 20 months in, his administration built 62 new secondary schools and 600 classrooms across the state while recruiting teachers and bolstering the security around schools. The longer students are able to go to school, the harder it is for them to be recruited for criminal purposes.

    In the area of healthcare, Sani repaired and equipped abandoned general hospitals across the state. Also, investments in vocational training centres across Rigachikun, Samaru Kataf, and Soba aim to give youths technical and modern workforce skills, reducing the allure of criminality. These programmes are not cosmetic. Rather, they are structured to equip thousands of young people with certifications recognised locally and internationally, from auto mechanics to ICT skills. As of January, 2026, the Sani-led administration has initiated over 140 road projects covering a total of approximately 1,335 kilometres across the state.  And the Kaduna Bus Rapid Transit (KBRT) system, modelled after what obtains in Lagos, is also expected to be a game-changer, running with CNG-powered buses on the 24-km dedicated corridor.

    It’s worth noting that this approach has delivered measurable results. Kaduna State has recorded extended periods without violent conflicts. Also, security indicators have improved enough that international advisories have been adjusted. For instance, last September, the UK downgraded its travel restriction level for Kaduna State from “Red” to “Amber” due to improved security. Such outcomes do not happen by accident.

    Read Also: World Bank partnership poised to transform Nigeria’s road sector – Umahi

    Critics might argue that insecurity cannot be eliminated overnight, and they are right. The challenges facing Kaduna State are deeply entrenched, shaped by decades of neglect. Yet last year, the Sani-led administration’s cooperation with the DSS led to the arrest of 54 suspects, including bandits and weapons traffickers. This is evidence that such collaboration yields results.

    And Sani’s vocal support for the establishment of state police reflects this long-term vision. At a lecture series of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) in Lagos, he described state policing as an essential step toward giving subnational governments the capacity to respond swiftly to threats. The logic of his reasoning relies on the fact that federal security arrangements cannot always respond with the speed communities often need.

    Beyond arrests and military operations, Sani’s administration has pursued programmes that directly rehabilitate victims and restore dignity to communities that were once terrorised. The handover of newly built homes through partnerships such as the Qatar Sanabil Project is an example. These homes, complete with facilities like schools and clinics, are symbols of recovery and hope for families who have endured loss.

    Governor Sani’s approach is about rebuilding trust between rural communities and the government. This is precisely why communities across Kaduna, including those in the most vulnerable areas like Southern Kaduna, have expressed appreciation for sustained operations that have seen the dismantling of hideouts that once terrorised villages.

    In a time where insecurity has too often been politicised, Sani has chosen to keep his focus on people, partnerships, and pragmatic action. His leadership offers a compelling example for other regions grappling with similar challenges.

  • Sani promises 100% water coverage in Kaduna

    Sani promises 100% water coverage in Kaduna

    Gov. Uba Sani has disclosed that the water production of Kaduna State has increased from 8 per cent to over 30 per cent in the last two and half years as a result of a comprehensive overhaul of infrastructure.

    The Governor, who made this known when the management of the National Water Resources Institute(NWRI) paid him a courtesy call, pledged a 100 per cent coverage across Kaduna State by late 2026.

    He lamented, “For over a decade, our water sector suffered from systemic neglect.

    ‘’When this administration assumed office, we encountered a sector in deep distress—treatment plants were dormant, distribution networks had been severely compromised by past urban renewal projects, and overall water production had fallen to a staggering 8 per cent.”

    Sani disclosed that his administration then embarked on an unprecedented journey to comprehensively overhaul Kaduna State’s water infrastructure.

    According to him, his government had committed between ₦93 billion and ₦100 billion over the next four years, from 2024 to 2027, to ensure that every household in Kaduna State enjoyed a steady and reliable supply of clean water.’’

    The governor said that his administration spent over ₦5 billion replacing pipes lost to vandalism and damaged during past urban renewal projects in Zaria and Kafanchan.

    ‘’A further ₦10 Billion investment in replacement of priority and critical pipelines for Kaduna is ongoing,’’ he said, adding that, “we have invested ₦1.4billion in high-quality water purification chemicals.’’

    According to the governor, his administration had cleared ₦1.3 billion in outstanding electricity bills to keep pumps running to guarantee uninterrupted operations.

    He pointed out that Kaduna State Government had not only invested in water infrastructure renewal, but also ‘’prioritised the welfare of workers who make things happen in the water sector.’’

    The governor added that he had cleared the salary arrears of Kaduna State Water Corporation (KADSWAC) staffers, amounting to over N900 million and integrated the workforce into the heart of the reform agenda.

    ‘’I have also approved the allocation of land for a Mass Housing Project in Millennium City, Kaduna.

    “We want the professionals who safeguard our water resources to have a place they can proudly call home,’’ he disclosed.

    Read Also: Kurmin Wali: Victims recall ordeal, commend Uba Sani’s visit

    The governor promised to collaborate with the National Water Resources Institute for long-term sustainability, which requires not only infrastructure but expertise.

    He allocated land to the establishment of branches of the institute in Zaria and Kachia, adding that they would bridge critical training gaps and ensure that our state agencies are staffed by some of the best-trained water professionals in the country.

    Earlier, the Director-General of the Institute, Dr Abduljalal Danbaba, said that (NWRI) had both academic and research mandates, adding that it harmonises the activities of the 12 River Basins in the country.

    He disclosed that the Institute had been recognised as a World Metrological Centre in Africa, disclosing that NWRI advises the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation on manpower needs and training.

    Danbaba disclosed that the Institute wants to boost its enrolment and that it is offering complimentary forms to the Kaduna State Government for short-term courses to enhance its manpower development.

    The director-general pointed out that the beneficiaries would only pay 50 per cent of the registration fees.

    (NAN)

  • Southern Kaduna commends Tinubu, Uba Sani over efforts to tackle insecurity

    Southern Kaduna commends Tinubu, Uba Sani over efforts to tackle insecurity

    The Southern Kaduna People have commended President Bola Tinubu and Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, for what they described as sustained efforts to mitigate insecurity in the state and across the country.

    The commendation was contained in a press conference addressed on Thursday in Kaduna by the National President of the group, Engr. Tabara Samuel Kato, following recent bandit attacks in parts of the state.

    Kato specifically applauded Governor Uba Sani for visiting the Kurmin Wali community in Kajuru Local Government Area, which was attacked by bandits on January 18, describing the visit as historic and reassuring to the people.

    According to him, Governor Sani is the first sitting governor to visit the community, noting that the governor immediately directed the Commissioner for Works to address the poor state of the access road and promised the provision of a hospital, enhanced security presence and other critical infrastructure.

    Read Also: JUST IN: Makinde meets Tinubu in Villa

    The group also commended President Tinubu and Governor Sani for what it described as their “untiring and concerted efforts” in deploying security mechanisms to protect lives and property since assuming office, while acknowledging that some challenges remain inevitable.

    While expressing appreciation, the Southern Kaduna People urged both the federal and state governments to intensify efforts toward securing the release of kidnapped victims and to carry out a comprehensive crackdown on armed bandits and kidnappers operating in Kaduna State and other parts of the country.

    Kato further praised President Tinubu for ongoing developmental initiatives nationwide, with particular commendation for the recent appointment of retired General Christopher Gwabin Musa as Minister of Defence.

    He noted that Nigerians from different backgrounds are increasingly calling for the consideration of Gen. Musa as a potential presidential running mate to President Tinubu, a move he said the Southern Kaduna People appreciate and support.

    The group reaffirmed its resolve to continue supporting President Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani in all their efforts, stressing its commitment to peace, security, and development in Southern Kaduna and Nigeria at large.

  • Full operations ongoing to rescue ‘Kajuru 177’, says Sani

    Full operations ongoing to rescue ‘Kajuru 177’, says Sani

    Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, yesterday vowed to ensure the safe and speedy rescue of 177 residents of Kurmin Wali, a remote community in Kajuru Local Government Area.

    He said the security agencies were working hard to secure their release.

    The governor visited the community where the people were abducted at the weekend. Many others were injured during the attack by the assailants.

    There was initial controversy over the incident when contrary to claim by the local chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), both the police and the state government could not confirm that abductions tool place.

    It was only on Tuesday, 48 hours after the incident, that the Inspector General of Police IGP admitted the kidnapped of persons. He then deployed a squad to rescue the victims.

    Accompanied by the Commissioner of Police, Muhammad Rabiu; Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Sule Shuaibu (SAN); Chairman of Kajuru LGA, Dauda Madaki; and senior security officials. Sani said the protection of lives and property remained the foremost priority of his administration.

    Addressing residents, the governor said he was in Kurmin Wali to personally sympathise with the community and reassure families of the abducted that the government would not abandon them.

    Read Also: Enugu tops southeast APC e-registration as leaders rally support in Udi

    Sani 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.”

    He said some residents sustained injuries during the attack and assured that the state government would bear the cost of their medical treatment.

    Acknowledging that security agencies initially required time to verify details of the incident, the governor said full attention was now focused on rescue operations.

    According to him, the state is working closely with the military, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force and the Office of the National Security Adviser to secure the release of the victims.

    Sani dismissed arguments over the exact number of abducted persons, insisting that government action should not be contingent on figures.

    He said: “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 cautioned against politicising insecurity, warning that commentary by those far removed from the situation could undermine ongoing efforts.

    Expressing confidence in security operations, the governor assured residents that the abducted villagers would be recovered within days.

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

    He said discussions had already been held with the Minister of Defence and other security chiefs on establishing a military base in the area due to its proximity to bandit-prone forests.

    “The location of this community makes it vulnerable,” he said, adding that a permanent military presence would prevent criminals displaced from major highways from relocating to rural settlements.

    He also announced plans to build a befitting hospital in Kurmin Wali to address healthcare challenges and directed relevant agencies to commence processes for the construction of the access road, with a groundbreaking expected in the coming days.

    CAN, AI fault handling of public communication

    Amnesty International called for an independent investigation and the immediate rescue of all abducted persons.

    Its Nigeria Director, Isa Sanusi, said: “The Nigerian authorities must ensure that all 166 people abducted from three churches at Kurmin Wali… are safely and securely rescued and reunited with their families. Those abducted include minors and pregnant women.”

    CAN called for the immediate and unconditional release of the abducted worshippers from a Catholic church, ECWA and a Cherubim and Seraphim congregation.

    While commending the police for deploying rescue squads, CAN faulted the handling of public communication by security agencies.

    The Adara Development Association (ADA) demanded a public apology from the Commissioner of Police and the Chairman of Kajuru LGA over what it described as the initial denial of the mass abduction.

    In a statement, the group said 177 worshippers were seized during coordinated attacks on churches in Kurmin Wali, with 11 escaping and 166 still held captive.

    ADA accused officials of suppressing facts despite eyewitness accounts and survivor testimonies, urging Governor Sani to intervene decisively to restore public confidence.

    Police deny suppressing information

    Also yesterday, the police denied that there was cover up of the incident.

    Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said the Commissioner of Police never claimed there was no attack but merely reported the situation as it stood at the time.

    He said: “At no point did the Commissioner of Police say there was no attack.

    “The moment an eyewitness escaped and confirmed the incident, and we received names of those abducted, we updated Nigerians. We did not attempt to cover up anything.”

    He insisted that the CP only said there was no evidence yet of abduction based on information available to him when he spoke.

    Hundeyin added that police mobile units and intelligence operatives remain on ground to ensure the abducted worshippers are located and safely returned.

    Atiku, Obi demand accountability, action

    Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar expressed deep concern over what he described as the growing audacity of bandits, lamenting that criminal gangs are attacking communities and taking hostages “again and again unchallenged.”

    Atiku, in a statement by his media aide, Paul Ibe, said it was troubling that while some state governments celebrate so-called peace deals, bandits continue to terrorise innocent citizens.

    “It’s colossally embarrassing to see non-state actors holding the country hostage,” he said, warning that negotiations that leave the upper hand with criminals undermine deterrence.

    He urged proactive action rather than rhetoric, stressing that the Tinubu-led administration must be held to account for its promise to end insecurity.

    Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, faulted the initial denial of the mass abduction.

    In a statement, Obi questioned the basis on which early reports of the kidnappings were dismissed, asking where and how those who denied the incident obtained their information, now that the scale of the tragedy has been established.

    He also raised concerns over threats reportedly issued against individuals accused of spreading “falsehoods,” asking who would now be held accountable since the reports have been confirmed as accurate.

    Obi said the episode exposed serious gaps in crisis management and official communication, stressing that in any serious country, such a large-scale attack would prompt decisive national action, clear messaging, and visible leadership.

    He noted that leadership goes beyond the acquisition of power to presence and responsibility, especially in moments of national distress.

    According to him, leaders must speak when citizens are hurting, act when lives are at risk, and demonstrate unequivocally that every Nigerian life matters.

    He called for urgent, coordinated efforts to secure the safe and unharmed release of all abducted worshippers and urged authorities to confront Nigeria’s persistent insecurity with sincerity and firmness.

  • Why Kaduna will support President’s re-election, by Sani

    Why Kaduna will support President’s re-election, by Sani

    • Adamawa APC elders close ranks, back Tinubu’s second-term bid

    • Akpabio, Eno pledge support for Asiwaju

    Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has promised that the state will support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.

    The governor premised the support on the dividends of democracy the President has brought to the state and across the country.

    Sani spoke yesterday at a stakeholders’ engagement on the ongoing e-registration of APC members across the country.

    The governor, who listed projects that were executed by the Federal Government and those that it has attracted to Kaduna State, spoke yesterday during a stakeholders’ engagement on the ongoing e-registration of APC members across the country.

    Addressing Zone 2 stakeholders, Governor Uba Sani said that Kaduna State is targeting 2.5 million members in the ongoing exercise because APC is now the dominant party in the State.

    The governor argued that his inclusive development model, through which projects are spread across the state, and President Tinubu’s projects in Kaduna State, have made members of the opposition to defect to the APC in large numbers.

    He said the President has supported the Kaduna State Light Rail project with N1 billion, described the development as unprecedented in northern Nigeria.

    Sani said: “Only three weeks ago, I was in China, in the company of the Director General of Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership, at the instance of President Bola Tinubu, who has also decided that Kaduna State would be the pilot state to embark on a major poultry project.

    “The project will generate at least 350,000 jobs. Already, the Federal Government has approved $200 million for it and Kaduna State will have the biggest poultry project in Sub-Saharan Africa. The ground-breaking will be done in the next three weeks,” he said.

    READ ALSO: Why Northern Nigeria must put education first

    The governor announced that the project would also support 10,000 direct and indirect small businesses, particularly SMEs that are allied to poultry farming.

    “Again, we must thank our leader, President Bola Tinubu, for approving the construction of the Mando to Birnin Gwari road, which is very critical, as well as re-construction of the Kwoi to Jama’a road,” he added.

    Governor Sani said his administration had approved a lot of projects in the current budget between the Kaduna State government and the Office of the House of Representatives Speaker, Tajuddeen Abbas, for Zone One.

    He added that Zone 1, or Kaduna North Senatorial District, has benefited more than any other zone in Kaduna State, adding that having House Speaker Abbas has been a blessing.

    The governor said the Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Abbas Lawal, who has done very well in supporting Kaduna State, is also from the zone.

    “When you look at some of the major projects that we are embarking on, under ACRESal, addressing erosion and other climate issues, he has played a pivotal role in that regard.

    “In the next one or two months, we will be having the ground-breaking for one of the major projects in Zaria and Rigasa, totaling about N53 billion, courtesy of the support and effort of the Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Abbas Lawal.

    “So, I can say that we are very lucky, we have people who are working for the Federal Government from our state who have been able to attract very important projects to our state,” he added.

    Also, APC leaders in Adamawa State, under the aegis of Adamawa Progressive Elders’ Council (APEC), have endorsed President Tinubu for a second term ahead of the 2027 general election.

    The APEC announced the endorsement in a communiqué signed by the Vice Chairman of the council, Senator Abubakar Girei, and the Secretary, Mrs. Olvadi Madayi, after the council meeting at the Muna Hotel, Yola.

    The party’s elders said their decision followed extensive consultations and was aimed at strengthening internal cohesion within the party while positioning the APC for victory in the 2027 general election.

    They said the council, constituted in line with the recommendations of the APC Reconciliation Committee, was set up to address internal disagreements and forge a united front among party stakeholders in the state.

    The council elders pledged to work towards resolving all lingering disputes within the party and mobilise support for President Tinubu and other APC candidates in the general election.

    According to them, supporting President Tinubu’s second-term ambition aligns with their mandate to build a strong and united APC capable of delivering electoral success at all levels.

    They expressed gratitude to the President for appointing Adamawa indigenes into strategic positions in his administration, including the appointment of the party’s state leader to sensitive national office.

    The elders announced a plan to organise a grand rally and reception in honour of all the federal appointees from the state to demonstrate their gratitude to President Tinubu.

    To deepen the council’s impact at the grassroots, the APC elders also resolved to take their reconciliation and mobilisation activities to the local government and ward levels to resolve disputes and prevent divisions.

    They reaffirmed their stance that any member aspiring to an elective office must step aside from the council to preserve its neutrality and impartiality.

    The elders announced the constitution of four committees with Chief Joel Madaki as the Chairman of the Contact and Mobilisation Committee; Prof. Tahir Mamman (SAN) to head the Conflict Resolution Committee; Mrs. Olvadi Bema Madayi was appointed the Chairman of the Finance and General Purpose Committee; and Ahmad Sajoh the Chairman of the Media and Publicity Committee.

    The meeting was attended by key party figures, including a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), former governors, serving and former ministers, as well as experienced legislators.

    The gathering also received a goodwill message from the party’s leader in Adamawa State, delivered by the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha.

    Also, Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has said the people across party lines have united to support President Tinubu and his Renewed Hope Agenda to further develop Nigeria.

    Eno spoke at the weekend when he paid a New Year homage to Senate President Godswill Akpabio in his home in Uyo, the state capital.

    The governor reiterated the support of Akwa Ibom State for President Tinubu’s administration.

    Eno said he paid the traditional New Year homage to the Senate President to thank him for his leadership and making Akwa Ibom proud at the national level.

    “We pray for more wisdom upon you to keep supporting President Tinubu because you are all tied together. We also assure you that we are holding the ground at home for you. That is one assurance you need to know.

    “Akwa Ibom is united for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Akwa Ibom is united for you, Chief Akpabio. In fact, four days ago, the youths of Akwa Ibom State held a massive rally to endorse the President, you, and me.

    “Akwa Ibom is united across party lines. We may have some storms in the teacup. They will always be there. But when you see the general outlook, you would know that the state is very united as far as 2027 is concerned,” he said.

    Eno hailed Akpabio for his New Year gesture of ordering the withdrawal of all cases he had instituted against those who defamed and slandered him.

    The governor noted that such a gesture showed a strength of character.

    “It gave me so much joy because that is leadership. Beyond what you did, it is a great encouragement to pastors that our leaders can listen to a message and be inspired by it.

    “It was Mahatma Gandhi who said that forgiveness is not for the weak but for the strong. It takes the strength of character to rise above such a feeling of hurt to let go of the past. So, I commend you for that,” he said.

    Akpabio praised Eno for supporting President Tinubu.

    The Senate President said the success of the President is the success of Nigeria.

    “We are behind you just as we support President Tinubu. His reform agenda may be painful, but it is working. I want to thank you for your support for the President and for uniting the state to support him.

    “We are focused on assisting the President to succeed, because if the President succeeds, Nigeria succeeds,” Akpabio stated.

  • Why Kaduna will support Tinubu’s re-election, by Uba Sani

    Why Kaduna will support Tinubu’s re-election, by Uba Sani

    Governor Uba Sani has pledged that Kaduna State will support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election because of the dividends of democracy that he has brought to the state and the country at large.

    The governor, who listed projects that were executed by Federal Government and those that it has attracted in Kaduna State, spoke on Sunday during a stakeholders’ engagement on the ongoing e-registration of APC members across the country.

    Addressing Zone 2 stakeholders, Governor Uba Sani said that Kaduna State is targeting 2.5 million members in the ongoing exercise because APC is now the dominant party in the State.

    The Governor argued that his inclusive development model, where projects are spread across the state and President Tinubu’s projects in Kaduna State, have made members of the opposition to defect to the APC in large numbers.

    According to Governor Uba Sani, the President has supported the Kaduna State Light Rail project to the tune of N1 billion, which he described as unprecedented in the whole of northern Nigeria.

    He maintained that no other subnational has enjoyed this kind of support, apart from Lagos State, for the execution of the Light Rail Project in the whole of Nigeria.

    ‘’Only three weeks ago, I was in China, in the company of the Director General of Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership, at the instance of President Bola Tinubu, who has also decided that Kaduna State would be the pilot state to embark on a major poultry project.

    ‘’The project will generate at least 350,000 jobs. Already, the federal government has approved $200 million for it and Kaduna State will have the biggest poultry project in South-Saharan Africa and the ground breaking will be done in the next three weeks,’’ he added.

    The Governor added that the project will also support 10,000 direct and indirect small businesses, particularly SMEs, those that are allied to poultry farming.

    ‘’ Again, we must thank our leader, President Bola Tinubu, for approving the construction of Mando to Birnin Gwari road, which is very critical, as well as re-construction of Kwoi to Jama’a road,’’ he added.

    Governor Uba Sani also said that a lot of projects have also been approved in partnership between Kaduna State Government and the office of the Right Honourable Speaker, Tajuddeen Abbas, in the current budget, for Zone 1.

    He pointed out that Zone 1, or northern senatorial district, has benefited more than any zone in Kaduna State, adding that having House Speaker Abbas has been a blessing.

    The Governor added that Zone 1 is also lucky to have the Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Abbas Lawal, who has done very well in supporting Kaduna State generally.

    ‘’When you look at some of the major projects that we are embarking on, under ACRESal, addressing erosion and other climate issues, he has played a pivotal role in that regard.

    ‘’In the next one or two months, we will be doing ground breaking for one of the major projects in Zaria and Rigasa, totaling about N53 billion, courtesy of the support and effort of the Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Abbas.

    ‘’So I can say that we are very lucky, we have people that are working for the Federal Government from our State that have been able to attract very important projects to our state,’’ he added.

    Governor Uba Sani further said that with all that the State Government has done for the people of Kaduna State and the projects that President Tinubu has attracted to the subnational, it will be one of the leading states in the e-registration exercise.

    Earlier, the Governor had held similar engagements with stakeholders from Zone 2 on Saturday, comprising APC members from Kaduna North and Kaduna South, Chikun, Kajuru, Igabi, Birnin Gwari and Giwa local government areas.

    On Sunday, the Governor and senior government officials also met with stakeholders from Zone 1, which is made up of Zaria, Sabon Gari, Soba, Makarfi, Kubau, Kudan, Ikara and Lere local governments.

    Likewise, he interacted with stakeholders from Zangon Kataf, Kachai, Jaba, Jemaá, Kaura, Kaura, Kagarko and Sanga local governments of zone 3, or southern Kaduna senatorial district on Sunday.

  • Uba Sani, Arewa Think Tank hail tax reform laws, sensitize Kaduna residents

    Uba Sani, Arewa Think Tank hail tax reform laws, sensitize Kaduna residents

    Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, and a Northern advocacy group, the Arewa Think Tank, have thrown their weight behind the Tax Reform Laws introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging residents, particularly youths, to embrace the reforms as a pathway to sustainable development.

    The governor spoke through the Executive Chairman of the Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS), Comrade Jerry Adams, who represented him at a sensitization summit organized by the Arewa Think Tank on Tuesday in Kaduna.

    Speaking on the theme, “The Benefits of the Renewed Hope Tax Reform Laws,” Governor Sani explained that the reforms are designed to streamline Nigeria’s multiple revenue sources into nine clearly defined and harmonized revenue lines.

    According to him, the initiative will simplify tax compliance, reduce confusion, and significantly improve the ease of doing business, especially for youth-led enterprises and small businesses.

    Addressing youths from across Northern Nigeria, the governor underscored their critical role in the success of the reforms, describing them as entrepreneurs, innovators, professionals, and community leaders whose understanding, compliance, and demand for accountability would determine the long-term impact of the tax policy.

    “The summit is not merely about sensitisation; it is about empowerment and partnership. Tax reform must translate into tangible outcomes such as better roads, quality education, accessible healthcare, improved security, and expanded economic opportunities,” the governor said.

    He noted that when citizens clearly see the link between taxes paid and development outcomes, public trust grows and voluntary compliance increases.

    Governor Sani urged participants to use the platform to engage constructively, exchange ideas across states, and serve as ambassadors of responsible tax citizenship across the Northern region.

    He also encouraged collective ownership of the development process, stressing that the workshop should deepen understanding and inspire collaboration among all stakeholders.

    The governor reaffirmed the Kaduna State Government’s commitment to progressive tax reforms, youth inclusion, and inter-state collaboration aimed at strengthening governance and economic resilience in Northern Nigeria.

    He expressed appreciation to the Arewa Think Tank, its partners, and participants for choosing Kaduna State as host for the sensitization summit.

    Earlier, the Convener of the Arewa Think Tank, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu, said the Tax Reform Laws present a unique opportunity for Northern states to become more innovative, economically self-reliant, and competitive.

    According to him, the reforms would particularly enable states to responsibly harness solid minerals and other natural resources to drive development.

    Yakubu noted that the reforms would also promote creativity and meaningful engagement with the Federal Government and the National Assembly on constitutional amendments that support resource-based development.

    He said the reforms hold “huge fortunes and prospects” that would benefit future generations if fully embraced.

    The Arewa Think Tank called on Northern political, traditional, and opinion leaders to patriotically support the reforms, urging state governments to leverage them to diversify their economies, strengthen internally generated revenue, and invest in education, healthcare, agriculture, solid minerals, and infrastructure.

    The group reaffirmed its commitment to standing with President Tinubu on the implementation of the Tax Reform Laws and pledged to intensify public sensitization on the importance of taxation for national development.

    According to the group, tax reform should be seen not as a burden but as an investment in a stronger, fairer, and more prosperous Nigeria.

    Highlights of the event included a solidarity road show by youths who marched with placards bearing inscriptions such as: “On Tax We Stand with Nigeria’s Progress,” “We Stand with President Tinubu,” “Tax Is an Investment,” “Pay Tax, Build Nigeria,” “Tax Today, Better Tomorrow,” “Our Tax, Our Future,” and “Tax Is Progress,” among others.

  • Deconstructing Uba Sani’s New Year message

    Deconstructing Uba Sani’s New Year message

    • By Zayyad Ambali Gidado

    In the realm of governance, true leadership transcends mere administration; it embodies a profound capacity for reflection. Reflection, in this context, is not a passive reminiscence but an active process of evaluating past actions, acknowledging challenges, celebrating successes, and charting a forward path with wisdom and a can-do spirit. It is the hallmark of leaders who see their roles not necessarily as an opportunity to show off power in all its might but as stewardship of people’s hopes and aspirations.

    Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has consistently exhibited this trait since he assumed office in May, 2023 but took it a notch higher in his New Year message for 2026 to the people of the state. While the message, delivered on January 1, 2026 and posted on his verified Facebook page is ostensibly a seasonal greeting, it quickly evolves into a masterful reflection on governance, resilience, and progress. It has to be acknowledged that it goes far beyond platitudes by offering a blueprint for exemplary leadership that is both introspective and visionary.

    By weaving gratitude, accountability, and optimism into his New Year message, Governor Uba Sani demonstrates his committment to fostering trust, unity, and sustainable development in Kaduna State—qualities sorely needed in Nigeria’s complex socio-political landscape.

    The message addressed to the citizens of Kaduna, and fellow Nigerians, serves as both a reflective summation of the past year and a forward-looking blueprint for Kaduna State. Framed with a tone of gratitude and optimism, the message encapsulates the governor’s leadership philosophy: one rooted in peace, integrity and accountability, and inclusive development. As Nigeria grapples with persistent economic headwinds, insecurity in various regions, and the lingering effects of global uncertainties, Governor Uba Sani’s address stands out for its emphasis on local achievements and resilience. It resonates as a call to unity, drawing on the state’s diverse fabric to inspire collective progress.

    The message is a testament to Governor Uba Sani’s administration’s deliberate focus on restoring stability since assuming office in 2023. The governor, a former senator and a key figure in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), uses the platform to highlight Kaduna’s transformation from a hotspot of communal clashes and banditry to a model of peace. This narrative is not merely rhetorical; it aligns with broader national discourses on security reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. By invoking divine grace and public cooperation, Governor Uba Sani humanizes governance, positioning himself as a steward rather than an autocrat. In an era where social media amplifies both praise and criticism, posting this on Facebook— a platform with wide reach among Kaduna’s urban and rural populations—ensures accessibility, fostering a sense of direct connection with the people.

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    One of the most striking elements of the message is Governor Uba Sani’s proclamation of “zero violent conflict” in Kaduna since 2023, attributed to the “home-grown Kaduna Peace Model.” This model, emphasizing dialogue, community engagement, early-warning systems and coordinated security responses represents a shift from reactive kinetic military interventions to proactive, community-led initiatives. In a state historically plagued by ethno-religious tensions, farmer-herder conflicts, and banditry—issues that displaced thousands and crippled agriculture—this claim is bold. The return to normalcy with farmers reclaiming lands, children attending schools, and markets bustling paints a picture of revival that could serve as a template for other Nigerian states like Zamfara, Kebbi, Niger, Katsina, Sokoto or Borno.

    Critically, this section underscores the interplay between peace and development. Governor Uba Sani articulates that peace is not just the absence of violence but the bedrock for trust and prosperity. This holistic view aligns with global peacebuilding frameworks, such as those from the United Nations, which stress inclusive dialogue.

    Governor Uba Sani’s address proudly touts Kaduna’s rankings among the top three performing states nationally and Nigeria’s leader on the Transparency and Integrity Index for two years running. These accolades, from independent assessments, signal a commitment to accountable governance—a rarity in a country often criticized for corruption. The governor links this to “renewed global confidence,” suggesting that integrity drives sustainable progress.

    This emphasis on transparency is timely, as Nigeria’s economic reforms under Tinubu—such as fuel subsidy removal—have sparked debates on fiscal probity. By highlighting international standing, Sani positions Kaduna as a reformist outlier, potentially attracting investments. Yet, the message could have delved into how these rankings translate to grassroots benefits. For instance, while improved ratings are commendable, they must correlate with reduced poverty rates or better service delivery to avoid perceptions of elitist metrics.

    A significant portion of the message focuses on human-centered investments, particularly in healthcare. The revitalization of hospitals, deployment of modern equipment, recruitment of health workers, and doubled insurance coverage aim to ensure no resident is denied care due to cost or distance. The completion of the 300-bed Bola Ahmed Tinubu Specialist Hospital is flagged as a landmark, symbolizing enhanced specialist services and perhaps a political tribute to the president.

    This aligns with Governor Uba Sani’s “dignity to labor” ethos which is evident in the implementation of a new minimum wage, a 70% salary hike for tertiary institution staff, and improved retirement benefits. Such measures address long-standing grievances in Nigeria’s public sector, where strikes over wages are common. The Free CNG Mass Transit Scheme, transporting over 1.4 million passengers and saving billions in costs, exemplifies practical relief in post-subsidy removal. Its indefinite continuation demonstrates responsiveness to public needs, turning a pilot into a staple.

    Furthermore, the provision of free housing to banditry victims through partnerships highlights a compassionate approach to post-conflict recovery. In a nation where internally displaced persons (IDPs) number in the millions, this initiative restores not just shelter but hope.

    Kaduna’s positioning as Nigeria’s foremost agricultural hub is another pillar, with investments in mechanization, fertilizers, insurance, and value chains boosting productivity and employment. This strategy tackles food insecurity—a national crisis exacerbated by climate change and insecurity—while fostering rural prosperity. Governor Uba Sani’s reference to reclaimed farmlands ties back to peace efforts, illustrating interconnected policies.

    Economic inclusion shines through the first Executive Order, enabling 2.5 million new bank accounts, 7 million NIN registrations, and N18 billion in disbursements to households and businesses. Selected as a pilot for a national program, Kaduna leads in financial access, crucial for digital economy integration. Social protection via the Ultra-Poor Graduation Programme and vocational institutes promotes empowerment, shifting from handouts to skills-building.

    Governor Uba Sani in his message took a long look into the future, dropping words of hope and a better future for the people of Kaduna State. The introduction of Project 255—allocating N100 million per ward—promises equitable development, ensuring no community is overlooked. This decentralized approach could democratize progress, empowering local leaders and fostering ownership.

    Governor Uba Sani’s closing remarks invoke peace, integrity, and dignity as guiding principles, urging security forces to continue to do their good work. His optimism for 2026 aligns with national outlook on inflation and insecurity, offering Kaduna as a microcosm of possibility.

    Governor Uba Sani’s New Year message was both inspirational and triumphant. In Nigeria’s polarized political landscape, Governor Uba Sani’s message reinforces APC narratives of renewal under Tinubu, possibly positioning him for higher office. For citizens, it provides lots of reassurance. Ultimately, Governor Sani’s 2026 New Year message is a masterful blend of reflection, achievement, and vision. As Kaduna steps into the new year, this address could catalyze continued momentum, proving that with unity and resolve, even amid national trials, subnational entities can forge paths to prosperity.

    •Gidado, a Public Affairs Analyst and Good Governance Advocate, writes from Abuja, Nigeria.

  • Uba Sani commends Army’s role in securing Kaduna at WASA 2025

    Uba Sani commends Army’s role in securing Kaduna at WASA 2025

    Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has commended officers and men of the Nigerian Army’s 1 Division for their gallantry and commitment in combating insecurity, saying their efforts have significantly improved peace and stability across Kaduna State and neighbouring areas.

    The governor gave the commendation at the weekend during the 2025 West African Social Activities (WASA) of the 1 Division, held at the 2 Battalion Parade Ground, Ribadu Cantonment, Kaduna.

    Represented by his Deputy, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, the Governor described WASA as a cherished military tradition that not only marks the end of a year’s training and operational activities, but also provides an opportunity for officers, soldiers, their families, and civilians to bond and celebrate Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.

    He said the performance of the 1 Division in the past year had been impressive, particularly in the fight against kidnapping, cattle rustling, and armed banditry, noting that the successes recorded had a direct positive impact on the security of Kaduna State.

    The governor specifically praised the Division’s collaboration with other security agencies under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, which he said had strengthened joint security efforts and enhanced safety across the state.

    He assured the Army of the state government’s continued support in 2026, urging troops to remain focused, professional, and resilient in the face of emerging security challenges, while sustaining their commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

    Earlier, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division Nigerian Army and Commander, Sector 1 Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Maj.-Gen. Abubakar Mohammed Wase said WASA remained an important annual event that showcased the Army’s rich traditions and cultural diversity.

    Maj.-Gen. Wase explained that the celebration marked the successful conclusion of the Division’s 2025 training and operational activities, adding that a series of social, cultural, musical, and regimental displays had been lined up to entertain guests.

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    He disclosed that the 2025 training directives for the Division were effectively executed with a high level of professionalism and regimentation, despite some operational challenges.

    According to him, joint operations carried out under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, in collaboration with other security agencies, drastically reduced security threats within the Division’s area of responsibility, particularly crimes related to banditry, kidnapping, and cattle rustling.

    The GOC noted that WASA also provided an opportunity for the public to better appreciate the diverse customs and traditions of barracks communities, which he described as a melting pot of cultures and social backgrounds.

    He used the occasion to pay tribute to fallen soldiers who paid the supreme sacrifice in the defence of Nigeria’s peace and unity, praying for eternal rest for their souls and strength for their families.

    Maj.-Gen. Wase thanked Governor Uba Sani for his unwavering support to the Division and other security agencies, as well as the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. W. Shaibu, for his leadership and guidance in strengthening professionalism within the Nigerian Army.

    The event attracted top military officers, government officials, traditional rulers, and families of serving personnel, who were treated to colourful cultural performances and displays celebrating Nigeria’s diversity.