By James S. Swam
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu visited Kaduna State officially, exactly a month today. The state visit marked a defining moment in the administration of Governor Uba Sani. During a high-profile event attended by top political, religious, and traditional figures in the state, including eleven governors that accompanied the President, Tinubu delivered a ringing endorsement of Governor Sani’s performance, describing him as an “agent of change,” “a good leader,” and a man who has “performed wonders.”
The visit focused on commissioning completed projects which included the Institute of Vocational Training and Skills Development in Rigachikun, Igabi Local Council; 300-bed Bola Ahmed Tinubu Specialist Hospital, Millennium City; and 100 CNG Buses. But it was President Tinubu’s powerful speech at the Murtala Square that captured the attention of both the local and national media. He showered Governor Sani with praise acknowledging that Kaduna was back to “life”.
In his address, President Tinubu spoke with genuine admiration and deep appreciation for Governor Uba Sani’s strides since assuming office. “Uba Sani has performed wonders,” the President declared, drawing applause. “He has changed the situation of toxic and uncontrollable environment to an atmosphere of peace and stability.”
These comments highlight not only the President’s satisfaction with the current state of Kaduna but also his acknowledgment of the daunting challenges Governor Sani inherited. From security concerns to infrastructure deficits, Uba Sani’s government has had to confront a host of complex issues. Yet, under his watch, the state is witnessing remarkable progress in critical sectors such as education, health, agriculture, and public safety.
President Tinubu’s use of the word “toxic” to describe the previous environment underscores the volatile state Kaduna was known for in the past, marked by political strife, inter-communal tensions, and public distrust in governance. By referring to the current climate as one of “life, progress, and development,” the President recognised the sweeping changes in the state’s security architecture and the renewed public confidence in government institutions.
Governor Uba Sani has consistently championed inclusive governance, community dialogue, and proactive security collaboration. His administration’s close partnership with traditional rulers, religious leaders, and civil society organisations has significantly reduced the incidence of violence and restored hope among the people.
One of the most quoted lines from the President’s speech was his declaration that “Kaduna is rising again.” These words were understood strongly by the audience, many of whom have witnessed firsthand the transformation across the state.
Under Governor Sani, Kaduna has seen renewed investment in infrastructure, including roads, schools, hospitals, and projects. The state capital, in particular, is regaining its status as one of Northern Nigeria’s most vibrant economic and cultural centre. President Tinubu commended these efforts, describing them as a clear demonstration of responsible governance and vision-driven leadership.
The President’s message was clear: Kaduna is no longer a symbol of stagnation or despair. It is a beacon of hope, a state on the move, fueled by determination and guided by a leader who understands both the needs of the people and the demands of modern governance.
President Tinubu did not hold back in his personal endorsement of Governor Sani. He called him “an agent of change” and “a good leader,” praising his discipline, and firm commitment to the common good.
Governor Sani, a long-time grassroots politician and former senator, has built his administration around the principles of inclusiveness, and development-oriented policy. His social welfare programmes, particularly those targeting women, youth, and vulnerable communities, have won him widespread acclaim across the 23 Local Government Areas of the state.
The President also made a poignant observation about Governor Sani’s popularity: “Senator Uba Sani, the great people of Kaduna, loves you.” This remark is especially significant coming from a sitting President and underscores the authentic relationship Uba Sani has cultivated with his constituents.
Unlike many politicians who lose touch after winning elections, Governor Sani has remained deeply connected to the grassroots. He frequently tours local communities when necessary, holds town hall meetings, and personally supervises the implementation of development projects. This has earned him the nickname “the people’s governor,” and President Tinubu’s remarks further validated this perception.
The president’s speech was interpreted by many political observers as more than mere praise. It was an expression of confidence in Governor Sani’s future role in national leadership. It also reflects the close political alignment between the two men, both of whom share a progressive orientation and a commitment to economic modernisation.
Beyond the rhetoric, President Tinubu witnessed tangible acts of governance. He commissioned a state-of-the-art health facility, a digital skills learning centre for youth empowerment, and CNG buses. These activities served as practical evidence of the progress he had earlier praised.
While Kaduna will continue on its development path, President Tinubu’s visit and endorsement sends a powerful signal to investors, development partners, and the wider Nigerian public. It affirms Kaduna’s strategic importance in the country’s socioeconomic recovery and reinforces the credibility of Governor Uba Sani as a capable and visionary leader.
In his own response to the President’s remarks, Governor Sani expressed deep gratitude for the visit and for the support of the federal government. He reaffirmed his commitment to serving the people of Kaduna State with integrity, focus, and compassion. He sees the visit not just as a blessing, but a responsibility to do even more for the people.
President Tinubu’s visit to Kaduna was not just a routine state engagement, it was a resounding vote of confidence in Governor Uba Sani and his administration. By recognising the governor’s accomplishments, hailing him as an “agent of change,” and applauding the rebirth of Kaduna as a state of progress and peace, the President has helped position Kaduna as a model for responsive and transformative governance.
The President departed amid cheers and jubilation, but one thing was clear: the people of Kaduna State are proud of their governor. And now, the nation knows why.
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