President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared yesterday that Kaduna State is on the path to recovery from a history marked by insecurity, violence, and division.
He praised Governor Uba Sani as the key figure in restoring peace in the state since he took office and encouraged other governors to follow his exemplary approach, especially his emphasis on empowering youth through skill development.
During a one-day visit to the state, President Tinubu inaugurated various projects initiated under the Sani administration, including a general hospital, roads, vocational centers, and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses in the state capital. House of Representatives Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, a native of Kaduna, expressed confidence that the state would support the President’s reelection in 2027 due to his commitment to its development.
Governor Sani commended President Tinubu for renewing hope in the Northwest region, which had previously been dominated by fear due to insecurity, asserting that the North stands united behind him. The President reflected on the difficult times Kaduna faced, particularly the Southern Kaduna crisis that created deep divisions under the former governor. He noted that Sani’s governance style has restored optimism and peace.
President Tinubu remarked upon witnessing the tranquil environment in Kaduna, contrasting it with the conditions during his 2022 visit when security was a major concern. He emphasized the importance of peace in fostering development and commended Governor Sani for his dedicated efforts in healthcare, infrastructure, and public transportation.
The President reiterated that the Federal Government would soon introduce a national agenda focused on youth skill development and food security. He highlighted projects like a 300-bed specialist hospital, various road improvements, a vocational training center, and a fleet of 100 CNG buses as evidence of the governor’s commitment to public welfare.
Additionally, President Tinubu acknowledged Governor Sani’s visionary leadership and people-oriented policies as a model for effective governance. At the event, he recognized former military governor Lt. Col. Dangiwa Umar (rtd) with the Commander of the Order of Federal Republic (CFR) award for his role in the democratic struggle. The President also honored rights activist Senator Shehu Sani, stating he deserved a national recognition.
Reflecting on his long-standing relationship with Kaduna, President Tinubu assured ongoing collaboration on significant infrastructure projects, including the light rail initiative. He stated, “We will do everything possible to realize our vision of progress and prosperity.”
Former governor Sambo described the hospital’s commissioning as a fulfillment of a vision that began during his time in office, noting the historical challenges in healthcare accessibility within the state. He recalled the limited number of hospital beds available for a growing population and the necessity of seeking medical care beyond state lines.
In concluding remarks, Speaker Tajudeen commended President Tinubu’s commitment to infrastructure development, highlighting ongoing projects that are transforming the state’s landscape and improving lives, including the progress on the Kaduna-Kano gas pipeline and the pledges to complete the Ibadan-Abuja-Kaduna-Kano railway line. He expressed gratitude for federal interventions that promote inclusivity and a sense of belonging among the people, praising Governor Sani for his leadership and the effective partnership between state and federal governments on security and development, positioning Kaduna for sustainable growth and national significance.
