By Olatunbosun Obafemi
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on an official visit to Kaduna State on Thursday, commended Governor Uba Sani for spearheading efforts to restore peace and unity in the state, describing him as an “agent of change, stability, love, unity and progress.”
During the visit, President Tinubu inaugurated several key projects, including the Institute of Vocational Training and Skills Development in Rigachikun, a 300-bed specialist hospital named after him in Millennium City, and 100 CNG-powered buses aimed at improving public transportation.
The President praised the governor’s focus on security and infrastructure, stating that Kaduna was on a renewed path of growth and harmony. He assured residents of federal government support, including the construction of a light rail project to ease urban transportation.
“I’m proud to say Kaduna is back again and I am happy to work with you,” Tinubu said, applauding the role of traditional rulers and stakeholders in supporting the administration’s peace-building efforts.
Highlighting Kaduna’s transformation, President Tinubu noted that areas previously plagued by insecurity, such as Birnin Gwari, can now be accessed safely at any time. He recalled needing military protection to campaign there in 2023.
The President also used the occasion to correct an earlier oversight by awarding the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) to former military governor and June 12 activist, Col. Abubakar Dangiwa Umar (rtd). Governor Sani also received the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).
In his remarks, Governor Sani thanked the President for his support, particularly the N100 billion allocation in the 2025 federal budget for the Kaduna Light Rail Transit project. He recounted the dire security situation when he assumed office in 2023 and credited Tinubu’s backing for helping to turn the tide.
“Security is the foundation upon which all other progress depends. Without it, development is a mirage,” Sani emphasized.
Former Vice President Namadi Sambo commended Tinubu and Sani for completing the 300-bed hospital project, which had been stalled for nearly two decades. Retired Gen. Zamani Lekwot described the President as a “God-fearing leader” for his commitment to the state’s development.
Dignitaries at the event included governors from Lagos, Ekiti, Gombe, Imo, Ogun, Kwara, Delta, Nasarawa, Kebbi, Edo, and Jigawa states, as well as Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.
President Tinubu’s visit had been originally scheduled for Wednesday but was postponed by a day due to his stop in Benue State, where he paid a condolence visit to the families of victims of the recent Yelewata massacre in Guma Local Government Area. Over 200 lives were reportedly lost in the attack, which drew nationwide condemnation.
In preparation for the President’s arrival, security was tightened across Kaduna metropolis, with major roads like Kawo Bridge and Independence Way shut to traffic from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The day concluded with a civic reception at Murtala Mohammed Square, where President Tinubu addressed stakeholders, traditional rulers, and community leaders. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to inclusive development and praised the collaborative efforts of the Kaduna State Government in executing people-centered projects.
The President is expected to continue his development tour with a visit to Nasarawa State in the coming days.
