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

Published

2 months 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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Kwara celebrates Fela’s legacy with retrospective exhibition

Published

11 hours ago

October 26, 2026

Our Reporter

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

The Kwara State Government has celebrated the life and enduring influence of Afrobeat legend, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, with a retrospective exhibition aimed at preserving African cultural heritage and inspiring younger generations.

The exhibition, titled Fela Anikulapo-Kuti: A Retrospective, was opened by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq at the Institute of Contemporary African Art and Film in Ilorin on Monday.

The Governor said the establishment of the institute reflected his administration’s belief that development should extend beyond physical infrastructure to include spaces that promote creativity, knowledge and economic opportunities.

“When we established the Institute of Contemporary African Art & Film, our vision was clear: development must go beyond roads, bridges and buildings to create spaces for creativity, knowledge and opportunity,” AbdulRazaq said.

According to him, cultural infrastructure plays an important role in connecting people to their history, broadening their imagination and encouraging critical thinking.

“Physical infrastructure connects places; cultural infrastructure connects people to their history, expands their imagination and challenges their thinking,” the Governor said.

AbdulRazaq said the institute was established to preserve African stories, nurture talents and showcase the continent’s artists and thinkers to the world,
describing the decision to open the institution with an exhibition dedicated to Fela as significant, given the musician’s contribution to African music, social commentary and cultural expression.

“Fela was more than a musician. Through his music and artistic expression, he challenged conventions and confronted society with questions about power, freedom, identity and justice,” he added.

The Governor added that the late musician’s life demonstrated the capacity of artistic expression to influence public discourse and inspire social change.

The exhibition, curated by June Creative Art Advisory, led by its founder, Mrs Seun Alli, featured photography, archival materials, film, graphic works and other artistic expressions exploring Fela’s life, times and enduring influence.

AbdulRazaq commended the firm for bringing its curatorial expertise and creative vision to the project, while describing the exhibition as an opportunity for different categories of visitors to engage with the musician’s legacy.

He said the exhibition would provide students with learning opportunities beyond the classroom, inspire artists, support researchers and encourage young people to explore the creative industry.

“For students, this is a classroom beyond the classroom; for artists, inspiration; for researchers, an opportunity for deeper inquiry; and for young people, a reminder that creativity offers both self-expression and economic opportunity,” he said.

The Governor clarified that the state government was not claiming ownership of Fela’s story but was providing a platform for younger generations to encounter and learn from his legacy, adding that the state government is optimistic that the institute would promote cultural education, encourage creative enterprise, attract visitors and strengthen Kwara State’s position in Nigeria’s cultural and creative landscape.

According to him, the institution’s success would be measured by the talents it nurtured, the ideas it inspired and the opportunities it created.

“Governments change, but institutions should endure,” the Governor said, expressing the hope that the exhibition would mark the beginning of sustained cultural engagement at the institute.

“May this exhibition begin sustained cultural engagement at ICAAF and inspire our young people to create, question, discover and contribute to society,” he said.

AbdulRazaq added that the initiative reflected his administration’s commitment to building a state where cultural heritage, innovation and economic opportunities complemented one another.

In her address, the Commissioner for Communications, Hon. Bolanle Olukoju, said: “Today’s exhibition offers us an opportunity to revisit the life and works of Fela
Anikulapo-Kuti and appreciate how his music, ideas and artistic expression continue to influence generations.

“For the Ministry of Communications, this occasion speaks to an important part of our
mandate: promoting the stories, talents and creative expressions that shape our identity as a people.”

The Commissioner particularly noted that under Governor AbdulRazaq’s leadership, the State is creating opportunities for young people through investments in sectors such as film, fashion and technology.

She added: “Projects including
the Sugar Film Factory, the Garment Factory and the Ilorin Innovation Hub reflect the administration’s commitment to developing talent and supporting enterprise.

“The Institute of Contemporary African Art & Film, formerly the Ilorin Visual Arts Centre, adds an important dimension to this effort. It provides a platform for artistic expression, cultural learning and creative collaboration.

“We want young Kwarans who are passionate about painting, photography, filmmaking, fashion and design to see ICAAF as a place where they can explore their interests, learn from others and showcase their talents.

“We also encourage students to engage with art and history beyond the classroom. Fela’s story is a fitting subject for this exhibition. It demonstrates how creativity
can go beyond entertainment to shape cultural identity and influence public conversations. There is much for our young people to learn from his artistic journey and enduring impact.

“It might also interest you that kwara state was also part of Fela’s creative showcase during his lifetime.”

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2027: Ilorin West LG Boss Leads APC Mega Rally In Ubandawaki

Published

11 hours ago

October 26, 2026

Our Reporter

•••Says Ward stands with APC

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

The Executive Chairman of the Ilorin West Local Government, Mallam Shehu AbdulRahman Babatunde Ladan, has led an All Progressives Congress (APC) mega rally in Ubandawaki Ward, reaffirming the commitment of party members and supporters to the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The rally attracted party leaders, grassroots mobilisers, youths, women, and other stakeholders who gathered to demonstrate their support for the party.

Addressing the gathering, Chairman Ladan declared that Ubandawaki Ward remains committed to the APC and its political leadership, expressing support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and the APC governorship candidate, Rt. Hon. Engr. Yakubu Danladi-Salihu (SYD), alongside other party candidates for the 2027 general elections.

The Chairman emphasised the importance of unity, peaceful political engagement, and sustained grassroots mobilisation in strengthening the party’s structure ahead of the forthcoming elections, urging party faithful to remain united, engage constructively with residents, and work collectively towards the party’s political objectives.

Ladan also acknowledged the importance of Ubandawaki Ward in the political landscape of Ilorin West, encouraging party leaders and supporters to maintain cordial relationships, promote inclusive participation, and sustain engagement with the electorate. He stressed that a united party structure would help strengthen internal cooperation and effective grassroots coordination.

The mega rally renewed calls for unity, loyalty, and peaceful political participation among APC members and supporters, underscoring commitment by participants to mobilising support for the party’s candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections, while promoting peace, development, and responsible democratic engagement across Ilorin West Local Government Area.

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KW-IRS Staff Threaten Strike Over Alleged Poor Remuneration

Published

6 days ago

October 21, 2026

Our Reporter

Mgt Accuses Union Of Dishing Out False Staff Remuneration Scale

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

The staff of the Kwara State Internal Revenue Service (KWIRS) have lamented poor welfare conditions, rising living costs and stagnant salaries they have been subjected to, despite their contributions to the state’s revenue generation.

In a statement issued by the KWIRS chapter of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN), the workers lamented that their sacrifice and professionalism, which have helped to place Kwara State among the more self-reliant states in the country, have not been matched with corresponding improvement in their welfare.

The workers questioned the disparity between their contributions to the state’s revenue and their welfare, saying many of them are battling financial hardship.

“We block leakages. We are posted to hospitals and other MDAs to secure government revenue. We work under pressure day and night but we continue to struggle to meet basic needs due to poor salaries.”

The association further expressed concern that personnel costs had remained unchanged for years while other expenditure heads had continued to increase.

It also cited a salary negotiation agreement dated October 11, 2022, which reportedly stated that the adjustment would be implemented “as soon as it can be accommodated in the budget.”

According to the workers, nearly four years after the agreement, there had been no implementation or clear indication of when the adjustment would take effect, despite the rising cost of living.

The staff said expenses on school fees, house rent, transportation and food had increased significantly while their salaries remained unchanged. “We smile outside but the majority of us are bleeding inside. We cannot continue to generate wealth for the state while we wallow in abject poverty,” they declared.

Urging their colleagues to remain united and resolute in pursuing improved welfare, the association said the workers should not expect better conditions without collectively standing up for their interests.

It called on members to remain calm, vigilant and prayerful as a 14-day period beginning October 15, 2026, counts down, without specifying further details in the statement about the expected action at its conclusion.

Reacting to the KW-IRS staff allegations, the Management, while
reaffirm its commitment to professionalism, political neutrality and its statutory mandate, expressed dismay over public speculation on staff remuneration and attempts to politicise unverified internal administrative communications.

“Management is concerned by attempts to exploit unverified internal administrative communications for political purposes, create unnecessary tension and distract the Service from its responsibilities. KWIRS will not be distracted from its mandate by such narratives,” said the Management.

It added: “The isolated salary figures being circulated on social media do not represent the full remuneration structure or total emoluments of KWIRS staff. Staff compensation extends beyond regular monthly salaries and includes the following benefits, in accordance with applicable policies and approved arrangements:

“Annual and Performance-Related Bonuses: Annual, festive, and situational bonuses linked to revenue performance milestones and staff performance and situational economic palliatives are paid periodically to staff members

“Annual Leave Allowance: A separate annual payment in addition to regular monthly remuneration.
Staff Welfare and Operational Support: Structured measures designed to support staff welfare and professional development throughout their careers.

“Accordingly, assessing staff remuneration solely on selectively circulated salary figures presents an incomplete picture of the Service’s compensation and welfare structure.

“Management remains committed to staff welfare, motivation and professional development. The Service will continue to strengthen policies and operational processes that support staff well-being and performance, within government-approved resource allocations and applicable administrative frameworks. The Service remains one of the Government Institutions with the most recruitment requests and this is a testament of Management’s commitment to staff welfare.

“KWIRS urges members of the public, taxpayers and other stakeholders to disregard unverified and misleading narratives, verify information before sharing it, and rely on official Service communications for accurate information about its operations and staff policies.

“All stakeholders are encouraged to refrain from politicising internal administrative matters or spreading claims capable of undermining institutional harmony and public confidence.

“KWIRS remains focused on its statutory responsibilities and committed to mobilising revenue for the economic growth and sustainable development of Kwara State.”