Governor Uba Sani: A Trailblazer in Northern Leadership Honored at THISDAY Awards

Governor Uba Sani’s transformative leadership in Kaduna State has earned him the prestigious Governor of the Year award at the THISDAY 30th Anniversary Commemoration Awards, held in Lagos.
Recognized alongside Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), and Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), Governor Sani’s selection in this highly competitive category underscores his remarkable impact on governance, security, and economic revitalization.
“Our commitment to repositioning Kaduna State and steering it towards peace and prosperity has received a major boost with this recognition. This award is a validation of the trust the people have placed in us and a testament to our administration’s unwavering efforts,” Governor Uba Sani stated.
In just under two years in office, Governor Sani has implemented bold policies, including the Rural Transformation Agenda, security sector reforms, healthcare improvements, agricultural investments, education revitalization, and infrastructure expansion.
Determined to restore Kaduna’s economic and political dominance in Northern Nigeria, Governor Sani’s leadership has swiftly brought stability to areas once plagued by insecurity. Under his watch, the Kaduna-Abuja Expressway—once notorious for banditry—has regained safety, enabling free movement of people and goods. The resumption of the Kaduna-Abuja rail service and the return of displaced farmers to their lands further highlight his administration’s achievements.
Through strategic collaboration with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, National Security Adviser (NSA) Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and Nigeria’s security agencies, Governor Sani has deepened peace, safety, and economic revitalization across the state.
“We are running a pro-people, pro-poor, and all-inclusive government based on equity, justice, and fairness. Our strategy is clear—open up Kaduna’s rural areas for economic empowerment and security stability, ensuring that no one is left behind,” Governor Sani emphasized.
The governor’s pragmatic approach to addressing insecurity combines both kinetic and non-kinetic measures, tackling the root causes of unrest such as poverty, unemployment, and governance failures.
“What brought about the challenges we inherited? Hopelessness, lack of education, and economic exclusion. When we assumed office in 2023, over 85% of the North West’s population was either uneducated or financially excluded. We are reversing this ugly trend,” Governor Sani remarked.
His administration’s commitment to inclusive governance has earned widespread commendation, with even his critics acknowledging Kaduna’s progress under his leadership. Today, Kaduna stands out as one of the safest and fastest-developing states in Northern Nigeria.
With a clear vision for progress, Governor Uba Sani continues to set new standards in governance, security, and economic transformation, cementing his legacy as a beacon of leadership in Nigeria.