President Bola Tinubu has said that Governor Uba Sani has transformed Kaduna state from a toxic and insecure environment to a hub of peace and development.
The president who stated this on Thursday during a visit to Kaduna
lauded the governor for his development strides.
Speaking at a grand reception at the Murtala Square, Kaduna, after commissioning landmark projects executed by the governor, Tinubu described Sani as “an agent of change, stability, love, unity, and progress”.
He said, “Uba Sani has performed wonders and changed the environment from a toxic, uncontrollable environment to a state of life, progress, and development. I say thank you, my comrade, “Tinubu said.
He expressed deep gratitude to the governor for the warm reception he received, affirming his longstanding connection to Kaduna state.
“I am pleased to be back here in Kaduna State. I share a very long-standing and meaningful connection throughout my journey in life — in politics, in business, and in the pursuit of democracy and fundamental rights,” he said.
Reflecting on his past collaborations with notable figures from the state, the President said he had the privilege of working alongside “many of Kaduna’s distinguished sons and daughters.”
Tinubu also corrected the omission of Dangiwa Umar, a former military governor who also played a prominent role in the struggle for June 12 from his recent Democracy Day broadcast.
“Let me use this opportunity to correct an omission. Some of those people that I missed out during the June 12 broadcast at the National Assembly include Colonel Dangiwa Umar (rtd)
“Today, let me correct that by honouring him with the CFR (Commander of the Federal Republic).”
The President commended Sani’s people-focused development strategy, particularly in youth empowerment.
“Today I have seen an example of people-oriented commitment to a development agenda.
“The governor has established not only critical sectors to change and develop the minds of our youths but also opportunities for them to excel.
“Senator Uba Sani, the great people of Kaduna love you — and that love reflects our shared commitment to democracy, justice and the dignity of life,” Tinubu said, He reaffirmed his confidence in the governor’s leadership, saying, “You are a good leader, and I am very happy we have to work with you.”
President Tinubu noted the improved security situation in the state compared with previous years.
“I remember when I came for campaigns, we had to go to Birnin Gwari with a battalion of security. I have it on good authority that you can move to Birnin Gwari today around midnight without fear of attack,” he said.
Tinubu noted that peace is the “hallmark of development,” without which no meaningful development can take place.
He said he was impressed with the rising profile of Kaduna state and reiterated the federal government’s readiness to support its development goals.
“I am proud to say that Kaduna is rising again, and we will work with you. In every aspect of your development agenda, we will do our best to ensure we achieve the vision of progress and prosperity.”
On infrastructure, Tinubu emphasized plans to implement key projects. “Don’t forget the light rail project — it is on our focus.
“We are going to do it, and we will do it together,” he assured, promising strong federal collaboration in the transformation of Kaduna state.
The president also called on other states to emulate Kaduna’s initiatives, particularly in youth training. “The Skills Development Centre we jointly commissioned today is an attribute subnationals should follow. Whatever we need to do together, we will do it,” he said.
In address, Governor, paid glowing tribute to the President, describing his visit as “more than a ceremony but a profound affirmation that leadership, when grounded in empathy and vision, can change destinies”.
The governor commended Tinubu’s administration for its unwavering support, especially in restoring security and fostering development across the state.
Sani hailed the transformative impact of
Tinubu’s policies, noting that “for every farmer who once abandoned his fertile land out of fear, for every mother who can access healthcare without worry, your leadership is a beacon of light.”
He also expressed gratitude for being awarded the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), describing it as recognition of “the sacrifices of yesterday paving the way for the triumphs of tomorrow,” particularly regarding his role in the historic June 12 movement.
A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of 100 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses, part of a broader transportation overhaul.
The governor commended the president for supporting in executing the Kaduna transportation master plan.
“You provided the sum of N100 billion in the 2025 budget of the federal government for the Kaduna Light Rail Transit (KLRT),” “Mr. President, you have always been there for Kaduna State. We owe you a debt of gratitude,” Sani said.
Some of the landmark projects commissioned by the President included, the Institute of Vocational Training and Skills Development located in Rigachikun, Soba, and Samarun Kataf; the 300-bed hospital; the 24 km Kafanchan Township road; the Tudun Biri Road; the 22 km road linking Kauru and Kubau LGAs; the Vocational and Skills Training Centre in Tudun Biri; and 100 CNG buses, among others.
Among those who attended the occasion were former Vice President Namadi Sambo, governors of Kwara, Imo, Ogun, Lagos, Nasarawa, Kebbi, Jigawa, Ekiti, Ebonyi, Edo and Sokoto.
Others include Speaker House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, ministers, and traditional rulers, among others.
Sani has transformed Kaduna from a toxic, insecure state to a hub of peace, development, says Tinubu
