Governor Uba Sani Defends Tinubu in Brazil, Says Critics of Reforms Are Standing Against Progress

Governor Uba Sani has declared that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s sweeping reforms have created an unprecedented window for both Nigerian entrepreneurs and foreign investors. Speaking during his official engagement in Brazil, the Kaduna State governor asserted that the reforms, though painful in the short term, are laying a foundation for massive economic transformation.

Governor Uba Sani maintained that the policy direction of the Tinubu administration, particularly in foreign exchange liberalization, fiscal restructuring, and public-private partnership frameworks, has positioned Nigeria as one of Africa’s most attractive investment destinations. He emphasized that these reforms are not cosmetic but deeply structural, targeting long-standing bottlenecks in key economic sectors.

Brazil Visit: Aviation, Agriculture, and Energy at the Core

Governor Uba Sani explained that President Tinubu’s visit to Brazil is not merely ceremonial but a strategic step to seal bilateral agreements in aviation, agriculture, and energy. He revealed that the Nigerian delegation is in advanced talks with Brazilian stakeholders to establish direct flight connections, boost agricultural mechanization, and expand renewable energy projects.

Governor Uba Sani stressed that aviation reforms are critical for opening Nigeria to global business opportunities, while agricultural cooperation with Brazil—famed for its advanced agri-tech—could revolutionize food production in Nigeria. On energy, he highlighted Brazil’s expertise in biofuels and renewable sources as a model Nigeria can adapt to reduce its overdependence on crude oil.

Critics Question Real Impact of Tinubu’s Policies

Governor Uba Sani admitted that skepticism remains among critics who argue that Tinubu’s reforms have inflicted hardship on ordinary Nigerians without delivering immediate relief. He countered such arguments by insisting that temporary discomfort is a necessary price for long-term economic stability.

Governor Uba Sani challenged the opposition narrative that reforms only benefit political elites and foreign investors. He argued that the expected spillover effects in job creation, infrastructure, and market expansion will ultimately touch the lives of ordinary Nigerians. According to him, the Brazil visit is an example of how Tinubu is prioritizing global partnerships that have direct local benefits.

Nigeria’s Position in Latin American Trade Strategy

Governor Uba Sani pointed out that Tinubu’s Brazil visit goes beyond bilateral deals—it is a deliberate effort to integrate Nigeria into Latin America’s growing trade networks. He explained that Brazil, being one of the BRICS economic powerhouses, offers Nigeria a gateway to South American markets and a counterbalance to Western-dominated trade alliances.

Governor Uba Sani argued that this diversification strategy is crucial at a time when global trade wars and shifting alliances are reshaping international commerce. By aligning with Brazil, Nigeria is positioning itself as not just an African economic giant but also a credible player in transcontinental trade politics.

Kaduna’s Role in Tinubu’s Investment Drive

Governor Uba Sani further revealed that Kaduna State is already preparing to leverage the opportunities from Tinubu’s Brazilian diplomacy. He noted that Kaduna’s strategic location, agro-based economy, and investment-friendly policies make it an ideal beneficiary of agriculture and energy deals signed during the visit.

Governor Uba Sani disclosed that Kaduna is actively working on partnerships with Brazilian agricultural firms to establish mechanized farming clusters, which could significantly improve food production and reduce reliance on imports. He also hinted at renewable energy projects being considered for Kaduna as part of Nigeria’s broader green transition agenda.

Controversy Over Transparency and Accountability

Governor Uba Sani acknowledged that Nigerians are demanding clarity and transparency in how international agreements are executed. He emphasized that Tinubu’s government must ensure that such deals are not shrouded in secrecy or hijacked by vested interests.

Governor Uba Sani warned that without accountability, the same patterns of failed agreements and wasted opportunities could repeat themselves. He called on civil society, the private sector, and state governments to monitor and participate actively in the implementation of these deals, stressing that foreign partnerships must translate into visible results on the ground.