Uba Sani

By Uzair Adam Imam

Shehu Sani, the former Senator representing Kaduna Central, has raised the alarm over the suffocating debt burden gripping Kaduna State under the administration of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai.

Sani expressed regret that his warnings against El-Rufai’s aggressive borrowing were ignored, leading the state into a financial crisis of significant proportions.

Speaking to reporters, Sani highlighted the dire consequences of the debt accumulation, emphasizing that if his advice had been heeded, the state would not be grappling with the current predicament.

He recalled facing criticism for opposing a $350 million World Bank loan sought by the El-Rufai administration, foreseeing the looming challenges now faced by the state.

Governor Uba Sani, in a recent town hall meeting, disclosed that the state inherited a staggering debt of $587 million, ₦85 billion, and ₦115 billion in contractual liabilities from the previous administration.

This heavy financial burden has severely hampered the state’s ability to meet its financial obligations, including salary payments.

The current administration disclosed that a substantial portion of the state’s federal allocation is being diverted toward servicing the debt, leaving insufficient funds for essential expenditures such as salary payments.

With the sharp increase in exchange rates, the amount being repaid has almost tripled, exacerbating the financial strain on the state.

Out of the N10 billion received as federal allocation in March, N7 billion was deducted to service the state’s debt, leaving only N3 billion available.

However, this amount falls short of covering the state’s monthly salary bill of N5.2 billion, further exacerbating the financial crisis.

Sani cautioned that the repercussions of the state’s debt burden are now being felt acutely, underscoring the urgent need for concerted efforts to address the financial challenges facing Kaduna State.

By Uzair Adam Imam

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State recently spoke at a town hall meeting, shedding light on the hurdles impeding his administration’s ability to pay workers’ salaries.

Sani attributed this predicament to the substantial debts inherited from his predecessor, Nasir El-Rufai.

During the meeting, Sani revealed that his administration inherited a colossal debt burden totaling $587 million, N85 billion, and 115 contractual liabilities from the previous government.

He disclosed that a significant portion of the federal allocation for Kaduna State in March, amounting to N7 billion out of N10 billion, was diverted to service the state’s debt.

Consequently, only N3 billion remained to cover expenses, falling short of the state’s monthly salary bill of N5.2 billion.

Sani emphasized the adverse effects of the exchange rate fluctuations, resulting in the state paying back nearly triple the amount borrowed by the previous administration.

Despite these challenges, he asserted that his administration had refrained from borrowing any funds in the past nine months.

The governor underscored his commitment to steering Kaduna State towards progress and sustainable development despite the inherited debt burden.

He highlighted key priority areas for his government, including safety and security, housing, education, healthcare, and support for micro, small, and medium enterprises.

Additionally, he pledged to prioritize inclusive development by investing in human capital, stimulating the economy, and providing affordable housing.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Sheikh Bala Lau, the national leader of Jama’atu Izalatul Bid’ah wa Ikamatus Sunnah (JIBWIS), has expressed commendation for Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State for his dedication to the social welfare of the citizens. 

The commendation came during the closing ceremony of the annual Quranic recitation competition held in Kaduna on Sunday. 

Sheikh Bala Lau, appreciating the governor for his monetary donations and other gifts awarded to winners across various competition categories, stated that Governor Sani has showcased a sincere commitment to enhancing citizens’ lives through numerous initiatives. 

A statement released by his spokesman, Muhammad Lawal Shehu, highlighted the governor’s gesture of providing Hajj seats to the best two overall candidates from the male and female categories for the 2024 exercise. 

Encouraging Muslims to integrate Quranic teachings into their daily lives, Sheikh Bala Lau noted the transformative power of the Quran in all aspects of life.

He urged the faithful to embrace its wisdom and guidance beyond challenging circumstances. 

Addressing concerns raised by clerics about the inadequate handling of pilgrims’ welfare in previous Hajj seasons, Governor Uba Sani took decisive action by announcing the formation of a committee. 

The committee’s purpose is to ensure a seamless and improved pilgrimage experience for the future, addressing the welfare issues raised by the clerics. 

Governor Uba Sani’s proactive measures and commitment to citizens’ well-being have received praise not only from the religious community but also from those anticipating positive changes in the management of future Hajj exercises.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Court of Appeal in Abuja has affirmed Uba Sani’s victory as Governor of Kaduna State, dismissing the Peoples Democratic Party’s appeal challenging the March 18 election results.

The court upheld the tribunal’s decision, citing the PDP’s failure to adhere to legal timelines and highlighting irregularities in the evidence presented.

With this ruling, Uba Sani’s position is secure, concluding the post-election legal dispute.

By Uzair Adam Imam

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has expressed gratitude to Allah and the Kaduna state people for their enormous supports and confidence reposed on the administration in the crucial first 100 days in office.

Govenor Sani’s first 100 days in office has taken several key interventions across security, health, education, infrastructure and rural development.

The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Muhammad Lawal Shehu, disclosed this in a statement he issued on Wednesday.

The statement reads, “To mark this milestone,several activities were lined up and several projects cutting across the 7 pillars of the SUSTAIN manifesto were announced and commissioned.

“With safety and security as the first pillar of the SUSTAIN manifesto, the Kaduna State Government in partnership with other security agencies commenced the training of 7,000 recruits of the Kaduna Vigilance Service (KADVS).

“The recruits were drawn from the 23 Local Government Areas of Kaduna State. This move to strengthen the Kaduna Vigilance Service to assist the police and other security agencies in the state in combating crime has been welcomed by all well-meaning citizens.

“In efforts to upgrade infrastructure, the construction of 32 rural roads covering about 406km across our 23 Local Government Areas has commenced as part of efforts to transform our rural areas, a main policy thrust of this administration.

“In health, state-of-the-art-mobile diagnostic trucks purchased by Kaduna State Government were commissioned and essential medical equipment are currently being distributed to our 290 Primary HealthCare Centres. The mobile trucks come fully-fitted with medical diagnostic equipment to render integrated health services in hard-to-reach and underserved communities across Kaduna state.

“Similarly, a fully-equipped Women and Child Shelter at Katuru Road was commissioned ,to serve as a transit home for children and women who are subjected to violence abuse by offering them medical, psychosocial and legal support.

“In continuation of activities marking the first 100 days in office, and as evidence of his commitment to education especially girl-child education, Governor Uba Sani commissioned a constructed/renovated 200-bed capacity hostel block, 16 classrooms, and a sickbay at the Government Girls Secondary School, Kawo, Kaduna North LGA.

“The Governor to the delight of parents state-wide also performed the groundbreaking for the construction of 62 Junior and Secondary Schools across the state, where he used the opportunity to reiterate that in Kaduna state,primary and secondary education in state-owned schools is free,” the statement added.

By Salim Yunusa

Your Excellency,

First and foremost, I extend my heartfelt congratulations on your resounding victory in the recent gubernatorial elections and commend your dedication to advancing the interests of Kaduna State and its esteemed residents. As we stand on the precipice of a new era, I am confident that under your leadership, Kaduna’s fortunes will ascend to unprecedented heights, driven by your wisdom and the guidance of Allah (SWT).

In the wake of a challenging period during which our nation has encountered multifaceted trials, the tenacity and unity displayed by the Nigerian populace stand as a testament to our collective spirit. With an unwavering faith in the leadership of our nation and its states, Nigerians continue to anticipate a future marked by prosperity, peace, and sustainable development.

At this critical juncture, I humbly draw your attention to an alternative avenue that possesses remarkable potential to address the pressing issues of unemployment, revenue generation, and economic diversification. It is my belief that a robust focus on tourism and the creative sector could be the catalyst for the transformation that Kaduna desperately needs. While acknowledging the challenges confronting our nation, it is essential to recognize the untapped reservoir of natural and cultural treasures that can propel Nigeria’s progress, with Kaduna serving as a shining example.

Global success stories such as Qatar, Dubai, Egypt, and Seychelles have demonstrated the exceptional economic rewards reaped from strategic investment in tourism. As seen in Dubai, the travel and tourism sector significantly contributed to the UAE’s economy, comprising nearly 10 per cent of total revenue. Similarly, Qatar witnessed a 70.3% growth in tourism sector revenue, with aspirations to amplify its GDP contribution to 12% by 2030.

I come from Kajuru, a small town in Kaduna state, where I am used to seeing people from all over the country and beyond visit the famous Kajuru Castle. I have also lived in Zaria, where I see thousands of people throng the colourful, eye-catching Zazzau Durbar yearly. These are just two out of many. I firmly believe that our state is endowed with a wealth of potential attractions. From the historical magnificence of the Emir’s palace in Zaria to the ancient Nok Art and civilization, the mesmerizing MatsirgaWaterfalls, and the iconic hills of Queen Amina in Turunku, Kaduna boasts a tapestry of wonders waiting to be unveiled.

Moreover, the state’s potential extends beyond its breathtaking natural, cultural, and traditional sites. Kaduna’s vibrant literary, music, and film scenes are carving their place on the global stage. The annual Kaduna Book and Arts Festival (KABAFEST), Hausa International Book and Arts Festival (HIBAF), Kaduna Music Festival, Afan National Festival, and other cultural events foster unity, diversity, and shared experiences among our youth, transcending ethnic divides.

Beyond the cultural and traditional scene is the vibrant film and fashion industry, with the Critics and Kadahood making and producing movies in Kaduna state, employing hundreds in the process. The Kaduna Fashion and Arts Exhibition also showcases the rich history of fashion in Kaduna state and beyond.

Just like football, music is one of the major unifiers in Kaduna and Nigeria at large. I witnessed, with so much pride, how Kaduna youths united during the 2022 Countdown event at Murtala Square. There was no way one could discern who was what tribe or religion; just young people filled with hope and optimism living in the moment. These are avenues where we can build the Kaduna of our dreams, a Kaduna that is healed from the pains of the past, devoid of all tribal and religious agitations.

One amazing thing about these festivals, funfairs, and events is that they always come with the advantage of a booming local economy of small and medium businesses. Vendors make brisk sales of food, wares, and goods. If properly managed by the Kaduna State Enterprise Development Agency (KADEDA), has a huge potential to bring more entrepreneurs to the fore, just like during the Kaduna Market Trade Fair.

Culture, creativity, and traditions aside, Kaduna, with no doubt, is the heartbeat of Northern Nigeria. It is strategically placed and has served as the administrative headquarters of the region. Therefore, Arewa House, the National Museum in Kaduna, and other historic buildings and monuments serve as archives and a lens to our past. We owe it to future generations to preserve these spaces in order to enlighten and educate the young ones.

Yet, for this vision to materialize, peace and security are imperative. The nurturing of these invaluable tourist destinations requires an unwavering commitment to safety and stability, addressing the root causes of insecurity. Furthermore, investing in robust tourism infrastructure, in collaboration with the private sector through Public Private Partnerships, will pave the way for enhanced accessibility and growth. We have seen how the previous administration was able to make Kaduna the number one state in Nigeria when it comes to the ease of doing business. With a proper tourism development plan that comprises all the events, festivals, tourist destinations, and activities, as well as the connecting transportation routes and servicing facilities together, I assure you that investors will come running to Kaduna. This plan will also include community education as a driving force for tourism.

Your Excellency, the potential of the tourism sector cannot be overstated. It carries within it the promise of economic prosperity, cultural preservation, unity, and local job creation. Other advantages include promoting the image of Kaduna state to the world, healthy migration of Nigerians and international visitors, the establishment of exchange programs, a boost in the local economy, the rapid development of rural areas, and the influx of businesses to the state. By supporting the burgeoning creative talents and providing the necessary infrastructure, Kaduna has the opportunity to become a beacon of progress and international acclaim.

Finally, I implore Your Excellency to consider this call for action, not only for the betterment of Kaduna but also as a stepping stone towards the broader advancement of our beloved Nigeria. Together, we can transform the challenges that beset us into stepping stones for growth, development, and a brighter future.

Salim Yunusa writes from Zaria, Nigeria and can be reached at syunusa@gmail.com.

By Muhammadu Sabiu 

The Wusasa neighbourhood of Kaduna State’s Zaria Local Government Area saw a gang of suspected bandits ambush and kidnap a health worker and his brother. 

According to reports, the incident occurred on Friday night. 

Engineer Isiyaku Ibrahim, the village chief of Wusasa, confirmed the incident. 

He bemoaned that the kidnappers have so often made their area the target of their attacks, abducting many of the people in the neighbourhood. 

Mr. Isiyaku added that Wusasa village, which is outside of the historic city of Zazzau, has seen a number of attacks recently.

Recall that a recent attack left an army officer and a vigilante member dead.

By Ahmad Deedat Zakari

The Governor of Kaduna State, Uba Sani, has reduced the school fees of higher institutions in the state.

The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Muhammad Shehu Molash, made the development known in a press release on Monday.

According to the CPS, the governor has announced the downward review of the current fees in state-owned tertiary institutions .

The spokesperson cited welfarism and the interest of the populace as the reason for the governor’s decision.

The administration of the former Governor of the State, Mal. Nasir El-rufai, had hiked school feels of state-owned institutions.

The new administration of Governor Uba Sani has decreased the school feels by 30%.

Below is the new school fees of higher institutions in the state:

a) Kaduna State University – Current Fee: N150,000 – Reduction (%): 30% – New Fee: N105,000

b) Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic – Current Fee: N100,000 – Reduction (%): 50% – New Fee: N50,000

c) College of Education, Gidan Waya – Current Fee: N75,000 – Reduction (%): 50% – New Fee: N37,500

d) Shehu Idris College of Health Sciences & Technology, Makarfi •HND Courses – Current Fee: N100,000 – Reduction (%): 30% -New Fee: N70.000 •ND Courses – Current Fee: N75,000 – Reduction (%): 30% – New Fee: N52,000

e) Kaduna State College of Nursing – Current Fee: N100,000 – Reduction (%): 30% – New Fee: N70,000

By Ahmad Deedat Zakari

The Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani, has approved the appointment of Senior Government Officials to fill key positions in the administration of the State. 

The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Kaduna State, Muhammad Lawal Shehu, disclosed the names and biographies of the new appointees in a statement on Tuesday. 

The new appointees, as disclosed by the CPS, include the following :

1. Mohammad Sada Jalal – Director General, Kaduna Geographic Information Service (KADGIS)

2. Jerry Adams – Acting Executive Chairman, Kaduna Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS). Adams will act as the Executive Chairman pending the appointment of a substantive Executive Chairman.

3. Adamu Magaji – Director General, Kaduna State Facility Management Agency 

(KADFAMA)

4. Adamu Samaila – Special Adviser, Labour Matters

5. Amina Sani Bello – Senior    

 Special Assistant, Student Matters 

6. Salisu Ibrahim Garba – Senior Special Assistant, Political Matters 

7. Larai Sylvia Ishaku – Senior Special Assistant, Social Investment Programme 

8. Clement Shekogaza Wasah – Senior Special Assistant, Community Engagement 

9. Waziri Garba – Senior Special Assistant, Administration.

According to the statement, the appointments are based on the proven track records of the appointees and the persons appointed are to resume work with immediate effect.

“The appointments are based on the proven track records of the appointees, their commitment to the service of Kaduna State and the SUSTAIN Agenda of the current administration. They are also people of proven integrity.” Part of the statement reads

By Sumayyah Auwal Ishaq

Activist and former Kaduna-Central lawmaker at the National Assembly, Senator Shehu Sani, has said that the era when President Buhari and the APC governor tell Nigerians who to vote for is over.  

Senator Sani said, “The era when the President or state governors tell people who to vote for is over. In Kaduna, we have shown that”. 

The former lawmaker reacted based on a video trending on social media. President Buhari appealed to residents of Kaduna State to vote for APC Gubernatorial candidate Senator Uba Sani and other candidates of the APC for the Kaduna State House of Assembly.

The appeal by President Buhari came following the humiliating defeat of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in the presidential and National Assembly elections in Kaduna State.