By Usman Alli Abubakar
The one-day working visit to Kaduna State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on Thursday, June 19, has vividly brought to the fore the significance of synergy between the national and sub-national governments in a federal system like Nigeria. While President Tinubu was in Kaduna State, his chief host and Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, made him commission sundry legacy projects. The visit saw President Tinubu pour encomiums on Governor Uba Sani, extolling his political and administrative acumen and sagacity in such a generous and effusive manner no other governor can boast of. It was one moment of eloquent testimony to the power of synergy between President Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani. Happily, both parties were proud to flaunt it and made no pretenses about same.
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President Tinubu, in a most sincere and honest manner, commended Governor Uba Sani for leading the process of the restoration of peace, hope, unity, harmony and orchestrating visible development and growth in the state. On his part, Governor Uba Sani put all down to the uncommon partnership and support from the President.
Some of the projects Tinubu inaugurated are: Institute of Vocational Training and Skills Development in Rigachikun, Igabi Local Council; a 300-bed Bola Ahmed Tinubu Specialist Hospital, Millennium City and 100 CNG Buses.
President Tinubu promised that the Federal Government would ensure the construction of a light rail project to improve transportation in the state.
“I must acknowledge the leadership of Senator Uba Sani who has been focused on security and infrastructure since he came into office. And we are happy to be here to celebrate results. Uba Sani is an agent of change, stability, love, unity and progress. He has changed the situation of toxic and uncontrollable environment to an atmosphere of peace and stability. You are a good leader. I’m proud to say Kaduna is back again and I am happy to work with you,’’ the President noted.
In particular, President Tinubu noted that Governor Sani had set an example for other sub-nationals in building peace in the state.
“During the electioneering campaign, we had to move with an entire battalion to go to Birnin Gwari. I have it on good record that you can now move to Birnin Gwari even at midnight without fear. I thank the Governor for leading the peace efforts. Peace is the hallmark of development. I am proud to say that Kaduna is rising again. I am going to work with you in every aspect of your development agenda to ensure we achieve the vision of progress and prosperity,’’ he added.
As if that was not enough, President Tinubu later posted on his verified X handle @officialABAT: “Thank you, Kaduna. You did not disappoint. What I witnessed today only reinforced a truth I firmly believe and hold dear: when governance is intentional, people-focused, and unified across all levels, real progress is not just attainable… real progress becomes an undeniable certainty.
“Governor Uba Sani’s Kaduna Model is a bold testament to our shared Renewed Hope Agenda and proof that sustainable impact and progress are possible when we choose peace over division, service over politics, and inclusion over exclusion.
“From developing Nigeria’s second BRT transport service using CNG buses to new hospitals, roads to skills centres, Kaduna is rising again, and so will Nigeria.
“I believe in the trajectory and future of our dear country, Nigeria. You should too. This is the time to take a Bet on Nigeria. Uba Sani has performed wonders and changed the environment from a previous toxic, uncontrollable environment, to a state of life, progress, and development. I say thank you, my comrade,” the president wrote.
Governor Uba Sani in equally measured, down-to-earth address, acknowledged the numerous supports from the President and assured him of the readiness of the state to utilise all future assistance and collaboration and whatever resources that may be available for the benefit of the good people of Kaduna State.
“Mr President, Kaduna State is grateful to you for supporting the smooth implementation of our master-plan on transportation. True to your words, you provided a sum of One-hundred billion naira in the 2025 budget for the construction of the Kaduna Light-Rail Transit.
“As you know Mr President, when we assumed office in 2023, Kaduna State was under siege, a land flanked by banditry and deep rooted mistrust, our villages, once vibrant hub for agriculture and culture, had become shadows of former self.
“Our highways were turned to criminal zones, but we did not surrender because we understood that security is the foundation upon which all other progress depends. Without it development will be a mirage.
“So, Mr President we thank you for your support,’’ he added.
Also in a post on his verified X handle @ubasanius (formerly Twitter), the governor wrote: “It was my distinct honour to serve as Chief Host today as the good people of Kaduna State came out in large numbers to give a rousing welcome to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, during his official visit to our State.
“Mr. President graciously commissioned several legacy projects executed by our administration. On his return to Abuja, Mr. President graciously announced the approval by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for the reconstruction of the vital Birnin Gwari Road, linking northern and southern Nigeria. He described this as a reward for peace, reaffirming that communities that embrace peace unlock the doors to progress and development.
“Mr. President pledged to continue working closely with our administration to consolidate gains in security, infrastructure, human capital development, and social investment.
“On behalf of the government and people of Kaduna State, I express our deep gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for honouring us with his presence and for his unwavering support for our State. We also thank him for appointing sons and daughters of Kaduna into key positions in the Federal Government. Our people stand solidly behind Mr. President,” he wrote.
The synergy between President Bola Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State represents a significant collaboration aimed at addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing Nigeria today, particularly in the realms of security, infrastructure, and governance. This partnership has yielded positive gains that not only benefit Kaduna State but also serve as a model for other regions grappling with similar issues.
One of the most pressing issues in Nigeria has been insecurity, particularly in the northern regions. The collaboration between the Presidency and Governor Uba Sani has led to the implementation of the “Kaduna Model,” a strategic approach that combines intelligence gathering, community engagement, and enhanced law enforcement capabilities. This model emphasizes the importance of non-kinetic and local involvement in security matters, empowering communities to take an active role in safeguarding their neighborhoods. The results have been promising. Reports indicate a reduction in violent incidents, kidnappings and banditry in Kaduna State.
It has built trust between the government and the people. This trust is crucial for long-term stability and peace, as it encourages citizens to report suspicious activities and collaborate with security agencies.
A critical component of any state’s development is infrastructure, and the synergy between Tinubu and Sani has led to significant investments in this area. The focus on improving roads, railways, and other essential infrastructure has been a cornerstone of their agenda. The development of a light railway system in Kaduna is particularly noteworthy. This project not only enhances transportation efficiency but also stimulates economic activities by connecting various regions and facilitating trade.
There is also the aspect of stable political environment that is essential for sustainable development, and the partnership between Tinubu and Sani has fostered a sense of political stability in Kaduna State. By aligning their visions and policies, they have created a coherent governance framework that promotes transparency, accountability, and inclusivity. This stability is crucial for attracting both local and foreign investments, as investors are more likely to commit resources to regions where governance is predictable and reliable.
Furthermore, the collaboration has encouraged a more participatory approach to governance. Governor Uba Sani has been proactive in engaging with various stakeholders, including traditional leaders, civil society organizations, and the business community. This inclusive approach not only enhances the legitimacy of the government but also ensures that policies are reflective of the needs and aspirations of the people.
The combined efforts of President Tinubu and Governor Sani have also spurred economic growth in Kaduna State. The focus on security and infrastructure has created a conducive environment for businesses to thrive. As a result, there has been an uptick in economic activities, leading to job creation and increased revenue for the state. The government’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment has attracted investments in various sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, and technology.
The positive gains from this synergy not only enhance the lives of the people in Kaduna but also set a precedent for effective governance in the broader Nigerian context.
• Abubakar, a public affairs analyst and political commentator, writes from Abuja
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