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UBA SANI 2027: THE ARGUMENTS FOR A SECOND TERM IN KADUNA

Published

2 weeks ago

September 5, 2026

By Abdullateef Bamgbose
lateefbamgbose@gmail.com

KADUNA — As Governor Uba Sani approaches the final phase of his first term in office, the debate over whether he deserves a second term is gaining momentum across Kaduna State.
For his supporters, Sani’s administration has recorded notable progress in security, peace-building, rural infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, workers’ welfare and inclusive governance.

They argue that continuity would enable the governor to consolidate the gains recorded so far, complete ongoing projects and deepen programmes already initiated across the state.

THE CASE FOR SANI
One of the strongest arguments advanced by Sani’s supporters is the administration’s approach to security and peace-building.
Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, the governor has strengthened collaboration among security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders, religious organisations and other stakeholders in efforts to confront banditry, kidnapping and communal conflicts.
The administration’s Kaduna Peace Model, which combines dialogue, reconciliation and security measures, is also being presented by supporters as an important component of the government’s strategy for restoring peace.
They argue that sustained peace is essential to economic recovery, particularly in rural communities where insecurity has disrupted farming, trade and other economic activities.

RURAL DEVELOPMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE
Supporters also point to the administration’s road construction and rehabilitation programme across the state’s 23 local government areas.
Under the Rural Transformation Agenda, numerous rural roads have been constructed or rehabilitated, with the stated objective of opening up communities, improving movement and connecting farmers to markets.
The administration’s transportation initiatives, including the Kaduna Bus Rapid Transit project linking Kawo Bridge and Sabon-Tasha, are similarly being cited as evidence of efforts to modernise transportation within the metropolis.
Supporters argue that retaining the administration beyond 2027 would give it the opportunity to complete ongoing infrastructure projects and consolidate investments already made.
EDUCATION AND SKILLS DEVELOPMENT

Education is another area supporters cite in making the case for continuity.
The administration has embarked on classroom construction and rehabilitation, established new secondary schools under the AGILE project and distributed learning and hygiene materials to pupils.
It has also invested in teacher training and expanded vocational and technical education through Institutes of Vocational Training and Skills Development in Rigachikun, Samaru Kataf and Soba.

The Reaching Out-of-School Children initiative is aimed at bringing children outside the formal education system back to school.

Supporters argue that these interventions, particularly investment in skills development, could help prepare young people for employment and entrepreneurship if sustained over a longer period.
HEALTHCARE INVESTMENT
The completion and commissioning of the 300-bed specialist hospital in June 2025 is another major point in the administration’s favour.

The government has also upgraded primary healthcare centres, rehabilitated general hospitals and strengthened the supply of essential medicines.
Supporters further point to salary adjustments for health workers, funding for medical residency training and the expansion of health insurance coverage as evidence of attention to the healthcare sector.

The expansion of emergency medical services and ambulance operations across the 23 local government areas is also being presented as an important intervention.
AGRICULTURE AND THE RURAL ECONOMY
Agriculture remains another pillar of the argument for continuity.
The administration has supported farmers with fertiliser, improved inputs, mechanisation and other interventions while promoting dry-season farming through irrigation equipment, solar-powered pumps and power tillers.
The Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone at Daki-Takwas is intended to connect agricultural production with processing, storage and distribution.
For supporters, the long-term value of such projects lies not only in increasing food production but also in creating jobs, attracting private investment and improving the incomes of rural communities.
WORKERS’ WELFARE
Workers’ welfare is another issue supporters cite in defence of a second term.
Following the implementation of the new national minimum wage, the administration announced that no Kaduna State civil servant would earn less than N70,000, with the lowest-paid workers receiving N72,000.
The government has also paid gratuities, death benefits and pension arrears, engaged organised labour on consequential adjustments and restored the ENDWELL savings scheme.
The reinstatement of thousands of teachers, head teachers, administrative staff and science teachers dismissed between 2018 and 2021 has also featured prominently in the administration’s record.
Supporters contend that these measures demonstrate a willingness to address some of the grievances of public-sector workers.
POLITICS OF INCLUSION

Perhaps the most political argument for Sani’s second term is his stated commitment to inclusive governance.
At his inauguration, the governor pledged to govern for all residents and rejected the settler-indigene dichotomy.
His administration has maintained engagements with traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, women and youth groups through consultations and town-hall meetings.
Supporters argue that this approach has helped broaden political participation and reduce divisions within the state.
THE ARGUMENT AGAINST A SECOND TERM
Despite these achievements, Governor Sani is not resting on his oars
Governor Sani, during a recent appearance on Channels Television, acknowledged the financial challenges confronting the state, particularly its internal and external debt obligations. He stressed the importance of fiscal discipline and said his administration had avoided borrowing in the manner of previous administrations.

Security also remains a concern, with some communities still facing threats from banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities.
However, supporters argue that the Sani administration has invested more heavily in security than previous administrations and that, despite Kaduna sharing in the wider insecurity affecting the country, the state has witnessed considerable improvement in peace and stability, particularly in Southern and Northern Kaduna.

In Southern Kaduna, some supporters say the governor’s peace-building efforts have generated strong goodwill. They argue that if the Constitution or electoral laws permitted a third term, many residents of the area would gladly support his return to office.

YOUTH EMPOWERMENT AND EMPLOYMENT
Unemployment and economic hardship remain concerns, but supporters contend that they are no longer at the forefront of public discourse in Kaduna State as they once were.
They point to the training of thousands of young men and women as forest guards, as well as skills-acquisition programmes being implemented across the three senatorial districts.

According to supporters, the various skills-acquisition centres are equipping young people with practical skills that can improve their prospects for employment and self-reliance.

DEBT AND FISCAL PRESSURES
The state’s financial position is another issue likely to feature prominently in the second-term debate.

The administration, however, maintains that fiscal discipline remains a priority and that it has been cautious about taking on additional debt.

PROJECT DELIVERY AND ACCOUNTABILITY
Another argument advanced by supporters of continuity is that major development projects require time to achieve their full impact.
They argue that terminating an administration while major projects are at various stages of implementation could disrupt continuity and delay their completion.

For them, a second term would provide the opportunity to consolidate existing programmes, complete ongoing projects and ensure that investments already made deliver their intended benefits.
Critics, on the other hand, insist that continuity should not be automatic and that the government must remain accountable for the cost, quality and impact of its projects.
THE 2027 QUESTION
The debate over Governor Uba Sani’s second term is therefore likely to be determined solely by the number of projects completed.
It will involve questions about security, peace, infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, employment, workers’ welfare, fiscal responsibility and the overall quality of governance.
For supporters, Sani deserves another term to consolidate the gains recorded in these areas and complete programmes already initiated.

Ultimately, the decision will rest with the people of Kaduna State, who will judge the administration not only by what has been promised or commissioned, but by how its policies and programmes have affected their daily lives and the future of the state.

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Gov AbdulRazaq Lauded Over Conferment Of Sadauna Of Ilorin Title

Published

6 hours ago

September 16, 2026

Our Reporter

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has been hailed for the conferment of the prestigious Sadauna of Ilorin Emirate title on him by His Royal Highness, the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR.

Giving the commendation on Tuesday in a statement in Ilorin, the state capital, Alhaji Yakubu Garba Gobir, who is the Sarkin Gobir and Madawaki of the Ilorin Emirate, described the recognition and honour on Governor AbdulRazaq as well deserved, timely and apt, giving his huge contributions to the growth and development of Ilorin Emirate and Kwara State as a whole.

Gobir specifically commended the Emir of Ilorin for conferring this distinguished title in recognition of the qualities and contributions of the new Sardauna, noting that it is a solemn call for greater responsibility, leadership, loyalty and devoted service to the Emirate and its people.

He added: “The title of Sardauna occupies a position of profound significance in the history, heritage and traditions of the Ilorin Emirate. I commend His Royal Highness, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, the Emir of Ilorin, for conferring this distinguished title in recognition of the qualities and contributions of the new Sardauna.

“The title embodies courage, leadership, loyalty and devoted service to the Emirate and its people. Your elevation is therefore not merely a mark of honour; it is also a solemn call to greater responsibility and continued service.

“As a fellow title-holder in the Ilorin Emirate, I am particularly delighted to welcome you into this distinguished circle of traditional leadership. I am confident that you will bring to the office the same qualities of leadership, dignity and unwavering commitment to public service that have distinguished your tenure and career.

“At a time when our Emirate and our State require men and women of character, wisdom and courage to advance the interests of our people, I am certain that you will make a meaningful contribution to the enduring unity, progress and development of the Ilorin Emirate.”

Gobir offered prayers for a successful, impactful and enduring tenure for the new Sadauna, adding:
“May Almighty Allah grant you wisdom, sound health and strength, and may He make your tenure as Sardauna of Ilorin a source of lasting honour to you, your family and the entire Ilorin Emirate.”

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FG Commissions KWASU ICT Centre To Enhance Graduates Employability

Published

6 hours ago

September 16, 2026

Our Reporter

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin.

The wife of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has commissioned a TETFund/Renewed Hope Initiative-backed ICT Experience Centre at the Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete.

It would be recalled that KWASU is one of the six tertiary institutions selected for the pilot phase of this intervention, with one institution representing each of the Nigerian six geopolitical zones.

Represented at the commissioning on Tuesday by the wife of the Vice-President, Nana Shettima, Tinubu said the project is a testament to the federal government’s commitment to advancing education, digital inclusion and enhancing graduate employability.

“The TETFund/Renewed Hope Initiative ICT Experience Centre we are commissioning today represents opportunity, innovation, knowledge, and the future of young people in Kwara State and beyond.

She said: “This initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the administration of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which places emphasis on youth empowerment, education, innovation, and economic transformation. Mr President is committed to creating opportunities that will equip Nigerian youths with knowledge and skills required to thrive in a modern and competitive world.”

Senator Tinubu said the facility was designed as a modern technology centre equipped with ICT laboratory, interactive digital display, conference facility, and exhibition spaces, adding that it would be an environment for learning, creativity, research, and technology advancement.

According to her, the ICT centres had been commissioned at the Ekiti State University on May 28, University of Cross Rivers State on September 4, Anambra State Polytechnic on September 10, adding that the Centres at Kaduna State University and Taraba State Universities would be commissioned soon.

“The next phase of this intervention will cover 15 institutions in Adamawa, Bayelsa, Borno, Delta, Edo, Enugu, Imo, Katsina, Nasarawa, Niger, Ondo, Osun, Rivers, Yobe, and Zamfara states which construction is currently ongoing. This expansion demonstrates the administration’s commitment to ensuring that more Nigerian youths, irrespective of their locations, have access to digital learning opportunities,” she said.

She encouraged the students to take ownership of the facility, maximise the opportunity it provides, and use technology positively to enhance their lives, community, and the nation.

In his speech, the Executive Secretary of Tetfund, Architect Sonny Echono, said the centres are being established across selected Universities, Polytechnics and Colleges of Education, with the Kwara State University, Malete proudly hosting the facility in the North-Central Zone.

“Through practical training and digital skills acquisition, TETFund seeks to enhance graduate employability, foster innovation and position Nigeria to participate more effectively in the global
technology-driven economy,” he added.

Echono also said that the ICT Experience Centre is designed to equip students and lecturers with critical digital skills in Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Robotics and Software Development.

He added: “The Centre being commissioned today is one of the foremost ICT Experience Centres being delivered across the country, and the third to be commissioned this year. The Centre is equipped with modern digital devices, Computer systems and relevant software to facilitate training, practical learning and skills development. The facility is appropriately furnished and
fully air-conditioned, with supporting power and municipal infrastructure.”

Also speaking, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Shaykh- Luqman Jimoh, said the new facility represents vision, belief, and an investment in the Nigerian youth to better shape the future of our
nation.

The Vice Chancellor described the ICT Experience Centre as an investment in human capital, in innovation, in entrepreneurship, and, most importantly, it is an investment in the future of Nigeria.

“This Centre will provide opportunities for our students to develop practical digital skills and engage with contemporary technologies. Importantly, it is our hub for interdisciplinary engagement.

“This ICT Experience Centre is therefore a timely, critical, and strategic infrastructure that will definitely enhance research, teaching, learning, entrepreneurship, and community service. This intervention is at the core of what this university seeks from partners and donors: synergies that add value and impact on today and the future,” he started.

KWASU Vice Chancellor also assured that the ICT Experience Centre would be put to maximum use for the benefit of students, researchers, and the University
community, adding that the “KWASU community would engage with the facilities in this Centre, we will use it. We will explore, experiment, learn, and innovate in i

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2027: Violent ;Kaduna as ADC, APC Supporters Trade Accusations….APC Calls For Police Investigation into the Vandalisation, attacks on its Office

Published

6 hours ago

September 16, 2026

Our Reporter

By Hassan Agboola

Tension is mounting in Kaduna State ahead of the 2027 general elections, following renewed exchanges between supporters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and groups backing the administration of Governor Uba Sani.
The latest development came on Tuesday when ADC governorship candidate, Isa Ashiru, addressed supporters in Kaduna and, according to an account of his remarks, declared that the party was prepared to respond to attacks against its members.
Ashiru was also quoted as saying that it was Governor Uba Sani, rather than President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was responsible for the continued detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai.

However, available public records show that El-Rufai’s detention followed proceedings before the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), with the commission stating that his continued custody was based on a court-issued remand order.

The controversy over El-Rufai’s detention has nevertheless become a major political issue in Kaduna and beyond. The ADC has repeatedly criticised the handling of the former governor’s case and alleged political persecution, while other political actors have made different claims about the circumstances surrounding his detention.
Rising political temperature

Ashiru’s emergence as the ADC governorship candidate has added another dimension to the political contest in Kaduna. He defeated other aspirants at the party’s governorship primary in May 2026 and is now preparing for another governorship contest after previously representing the PDP in the 2019 and 2023 elections.
The political atmosphere has been further complicated by disagreements within the ADC and accusations from different groups over the party’s leadership and candidates.

A Southern Kaduna political group, for instance, recently questioned Ashiru’s candidacy and the choice of his running mate, allegations rejected by an ADC official.
The situation has also produced incidents involving ADC supporters and security personnel. In one recent incident, police dispersed an ADC solidarity walk in Kaduna, while the party subsequently accused opponents of attacking its members and warned that political violence could escalate ahead of the 2027 elections.

The former governor remains an important factor in the emerging political contest. El-Rufai was taken into custody in February 2026 after responding to an invitation from the ICPC. His family subsequently demanded his release, while the anti-graft agency maintained that his detention was authorised by a court.
Since then, the issue has increasingly featured in political statements by the ADC and its supporters, with the party accusing the Federal Government of political persecution and calling for the former governor’s release.
The development has created a new political fault line involving the ADC, the APC-led Kaduna State Government and supporters of the former governor.

While allegations have been exchanged over who is responsible for political violence in Kaduna, the competing narratives should not be confused with established findings. The ADC itself has recently rejected the suggestion that it has a monopoly on political violence and accused unnamed opponents of introducing thuggery into the 2027 political process.

With the 2027 election campaign yet to fully commence, the increasingly combative language from ISA Ashiru and his supporters has raised concerns about the possibility of further confrontation.
The immediate challenge before the political parties, security agencies and community leaders is therefore to ensure that political disagreements do not degenerate into violence, particularly in a state with Kaduna’s history of politically and communally sensitive conflicts.
As at the time of filling tid report the All progressive congress, APC , Kaduna state in a statement has condemned the attacks on its office and called for police investigation
Certainly. I’ll retain the substance of the report while correcting grammar, tightening the structure, and presenting it as a clean newspaper hard-news story.
Writing
APC Condemns Violent Attacks on Members, Party Offices in Kaduna
The Kaduna State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has condemned alleged violent attacks on its members and the vandalisation of party offices and properties in the state.
The party also called on the police and other security agencies to investigate the incidents and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
In a statement, the Kaduna State APC Publicity Secretary, Sani Dan-Azare, alleged that some of the party’s members and supporters had been attacked, while some party and support-group offices were vandalised.
He also alleged that vehicles belonging to some party members were damaged during the incidents.
The APC described the attacks as unacceptable and urged security agencies to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incidents.
The party called on its members and supporters to remain calm and law-abiding, stressing that they should not resort to retaliation or take the law into their own hands.
The APC said it remained committed to peaceful political engagement and urged all political actors in Kaduna State to conduct their activities within the bounds of the law.
It further appealed to security agencies to strengthen security around party offices and other sensitive locations to prevent further incidents.