Governor Sani Hails Tinubu’s Fulfilment of Northern Promises, Says Security, Infrastructure Witnessing Turnaround

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for remaining steadfast in fulfilling his campaign promises to the northern region, particularly in tackling insecurity and promoting inclusive governance. Speaking during the opening ceremony of a two-day interactive session on government-citizen engagement, organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation in Kaduna, the governor said Tinubu’s administration had shown an uncommon commitment to addressing the unique challenges facing the region.

Governor Sani, who came into office in 2023 at the height of widespread insecurity in Kaduna State, said the President provided consistent support to his administration in confronting the threats posed by bandits, kidnappers, and terrorists. “President Tinubu has kept faith with the North. His support has helped us dismantle criminal enclaves and reopen long-deserted communities,” he affirmed.

Restoring Security: A Renewed Hope Realised

The Kaduna governor painted a grim picture of the situation he inherited in 2023, describing a state engulfed by fear, abandoned towns, and paralysed infrastructure. He recalled how the infamous Abuja-Kaduna highway — once a lifeline of commerce — became a “corridor of dread,” while the Abuja-Kaduna train attack of 2022 left psychological scars on the state and the nation.

“Had we attempted to organise this conference in May 2023, it would have either been empty or totally inaccessible due to security threats,” Governor Sani said, underscoring the transformation that has since taken place. With coordinated efforts between state and federal authorities, the administration has seen the reopening of markets in Birnin Gwari after a decade and the repopulation of previously abandoned towns in Chikun and Igabi.

Governor Sani credited these achievements to the federal government’s strategic security leadership under the direction of National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu and the Defence Ministry. “Their gallantry fills us with pride,” he stated, while also acknowledging the courage of service chiefs and local vigilance groups.

Gov Sani Addressing Root Causes: Poverty and Exclusion

Governor Sani did not shy away from identifying the deeper causes of insecurity. According to him, the crisis is not just about armed confrontations but stems from longstanding issues of poverty, educational neglect, and economic exclusion. “Long before I became governor, I maintained that poverty is a potent instigator of instability,” he said.

The data supports his concern: over 65% of the North-West population was financially excluded as of May 2023, lacking access to credit, formal banking, or sustainable livelihood opportunities. In this vacuum, Governor Sani explained, extremist ideologies and criminality thrived. He praised President Tinubu for taking a holistic approach by supporting programs aimed at enhancing financial inclusion and community engagement.

Governor Sani insisted that without bridging the gap between the people and government, no military operation would succeed in creating lasting peace. He advocated for policies that invest in human capital, uplift education, and deliver economic empowerment to underserved communities across the region.

Progress in Social Sectors: Health, Education, and Infrastructure

Beyond security, Governor Sani acknowledged federal support in improving education, healthcare, and critical infrastructure across Kaduna and the broader North. He noted that the Tinubu administration’s promises in these areas are not just theoretical — they are yielding measurable outcomes.

The Governor Sani revealed that with increased federal backing, his administration has expanded access to public health services and revitalised deteriorating schools. Infrastructure development has also resumed across areas previously abandoned due to conflict. “We now have the space to invest in growth. With peace gradually returning, the dividends of democracy are beginning to take root,” he declared.

He emphasized that the North must continue to demand and track progress in these sectors, ensuring that promises translate into opportunities for the ordinary citizen. “While more work remains and distances lie ahead, the destination is in sight,” he said.

A Call for Sustained National Unity and Dialogue

Governor Sani concluded his remarks with a call for continued dialogue and inclusivity in governance, stressing that unity and collaboration remain vital for national development. He urged citizens, civil society organisations, and political stakeholders to remain engaged and committed to the democratic process.

“The problems of the North — and by extension Nigeria — are surmountable. But they demand sustained political will, policy consistency, and an unwavering commitment to the people. President Tinubu has shown that commitment,” he said.

He lauded the organisers of the interactive session, the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation, for facilitating a platform that brings government closer to the people. “It is only through conversations like this — grounded in truth and driven by purpose — that we can build a future worthy of our founding fathers’ dreams,” he concluded.