From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna
On Thursday, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared Kaduna State a rising star in Nigeria’s development landscape, praising Governor Uba Sani for transforming a region once gripped by fear into a beacon of peace, growth, and unity. The President revealed that a total of N100 billion has been allocated for Kaduna’s light rail project in the 2025 federal budget.
During a one-day official visit to Kaduna State, President Tinubu commissioned several projects, including a 300-bed hospital, the Institute of Vocational Training and Skills Development, and 100 CNG buses, in addition to the Kafanchan township road.
At a grand civic reception in his honor at Murtala Square, Kaduna, President Tinubu referred to Governor Sani as “an agent of change, unity, and progress,” emphasizing that his leadership is restoring hope across the state and beyond. “You have turned a toxic environment into one of life and opportunity. I am proud of you,” he stated.
The President, visibly moved by the massive turnout and warm reception, announced a national honor, Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR), for retired Colonel Dangiwa Umar, who was inadvertently omitted from his June 12 Democracy Day speech.
Highlighting Kaduna’s growing reputation for reform and innovation, Tinubu noted, “From vocational institutes to transport infrastructure, what I have seen here today is a model for national progress. Kaduna is rising again, and we will walk with you on this journey.” He underscored the federal government’s commitment to the Kaduna Light Rail project, confirming that N100 billion has already been earmarked for it in the 2025 budget. He also endorsed the newly commissioned Institute of Vocational Training and Skills Development as a national template.
Governor Uba Sani expressed his gratitude to the President for his unwavering support, stating, “Kaduna is no longer defined by fear.” He highlighted that roads are now accessible, schools have reopened, and farmlands are thriving. Over 535 schools that were previously closed due to insurgency have resumed operations, and over 500,000 hectares of abandoned farmland are now in use.
Sani praised Tinubu as a leader whose “vision is reshaping Nigeria,” referencing landmark federal support for urban transit, education, healthcare, and agro-industrialization. “Kaduna is the first state to implement the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone project, thanks to you, Mr. President,” he added.
The Governor also announced that 100 newly acquired compressed natural gas (CNG) buses will be provided free of charge to students, civil servants, and pensioners for the first six months, easing transportation burdens and reducing dependency on fossil fuels. He reiterated his commitment to poverty reduction, education enhancement, and improved health outcomes.
According to Sani, Kaduna has constructed 79 new roads covering 780 kilometers, built 62 secondary schools, and upgraded 1,049 classrooms across the state, while also halving tuition fees in state-owned tertiary institutions.
Concluding his remarks, Governor Sani made a passionate plea to Northerners: “This President stood with us in our darkest hour. Let us rally behind him in this hour of light.”
