As he assumed office on May 29, 2023, succeeding former Governor Nasir El-Rufa’i, the ex-Senator of Kaduna Central, Uba Sani, took charge of a state weighed down by considerable economic challenges. Undeterred by the grim financial state inherited from his predecessor, Sani exhibited the resolve to elevate Kaduna to new heights, akin to great leaders facing adversity.
Setting the stage for his tenure, Sani acknowledged the hurdles faced by the state, emphasizing his belief in his ability to steer Kaduna towards prosperity. In contrast to El-Rufa’i’s acknowledgment of leaving a staggering domestic debt of N80.60 billion naira and a foreign debt of $577.32 million dollars, Sani embarked on actionable strategies to reverse this narrative, eschewing political posturing.
With a promise to foster a government oriented towards the people, Governor Sani pledged to swiftly secure a peaceful, united, and economically vibrant Kaduna State, offering hope and opportunity for its citizens. He assured the populace of his unwavering commitment to uplift the ailing conditions, vowing to deploy state-of-the-art governance tools and top-tier personnel to restore prosperity.
Within a mere six months, Governor Sani’s resolute pursuit of development encompassed infrastructure, human capital, job creation, and enticing global investment. Notably, his astute move to address the housing deficit through a tripartite partnership with Qatar Charity Foundation and Sanabil Foundation, signposts his dedication to impactful initiatives.
The groundbreaking of the Economic City by the Qatari Ambassador exemplified Sani’s proactive approach, poised to revolutionize affordable living and facilitate burgeoning business activities. Furthermore, the housing project, aiming to uplift vulnerable segments of the population, includes provisions for healthcare, commerce, and agricultural sustenance, showcasing the breadth of Sani’s vision for Kaduna.
Additionally, Sani’s strides in human capital development and fostering women and youth employment culminated in a trailblazing partnership with Google.Org. This initiative, designed to equip 5,000 women and girls with crucial digital skills, aims to position them for opportunities in the ever-evolving digital and creative industries, aligning Kaduna with global tech trends.
Expanding the reach of Kaduna’s partnerships, the Governor initiated discussions with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Africa Development Bank to bolster critical sectors such as Agriculture, Health, and Financial Inclusion, underscoring his commitment to holistic progress.
Furthermore, Sani’s foresight to bolster the state’s energy sector through collaborations with Basscomm Nigeria Limited and Eneriv Power Limited, attests to his dedication to sustainable and inclusive development. The Solar-For-All Programme, targeting over 70,000 public servants, symbolizes Sani’s proactive approach in addressing pressing environmental and energy challenges.
In less than six months, Governor Uba Sani has demonstrated an unparalleled grasp of governance amidst trying circumstances, underlining his proactive approach to governance. Determined to revitalize the state’s financial standing, Sani’s relentless pursuit of foreign direct investments underscores his unwavering dedication to uplift Kaduna State.
