From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
The Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has expressed gratitude to the people of Southern Kaduna for maintaining peace, stating, “The people of Zone 3 have reciprocated by ensuring that peace prevails, so there will be unhindered development in fulfilment of my pledge to run an inclusive government, anchored on equity, fairness, and justice to take development to all parts of the state.”
Governor Sani made this remark at the 2nd edition of the Southern Kaduna Festival, held in Kafanchan on Saturday, where he was the Chief Host of the event.
According to him, culture plays a significant role in shaping identities and values and inspiring creativity. He added, “Our cultural heritage is the foundation upon which we build our progress, and it is our responsibility to preserve it for future generations.”
The governor emphasised his administration’s commitment to the massive transformation of rural communities, recognising their immense potential. “We believe that by empowering rural communities, we can unlock the secrets to sustainable development, economic growth, and social prosperity,” he said.
Governor Uba Sani pointed out that his administration has undertaken numerous transformative projects in the 18 months he has been in office, “reshaping our communities and enhancing the quality of life for our citizens.”
He recalled that the Kafanchan Township Roads had been abandoned for many years, causing hardship to the people. “Contractors have been fully mobilised, and work is ongoing,” he noted.
The governor further announced road construction projects, including a 22.5km road from Gwantu through Kibam to Godogodo, a 21.95km road from Madauchi to Kafanchan through Madakiya (including a branch to Matsirga Waterfalls), and a 21.85km Pambeguwa to Kauru Road through Kahuta, linking various Local Government Areas (LGAs).
“We have installed 200 units of All-in-One Solar Street Lights across various local governments in Zone 3, illuminating our streets and enhancing safety for all,” he added.
In addition to infrastructure, the governor highlighted advancements in agriculture, education, and healthcare. “We are prioritising agriculture through the distribution of fertilisers, farm inputs, and agricultural implements. Additionally, we have been constructing new schools, upgrading existing ones, and distributing educational materials to ensure our children have the resources they need to thrive.”
He said the Kaduna State Vocational and Technology Skills Acquisition City at Samaru Kataf, which is 90% completed, would graduate about 12,000 trainees annually with international certification upon completion.
The governor also announced the conversion of the Sir Patrick Yakowa General Hospital in Kafanchan to a Federal Medical Centre to serve the diverse population spanning several LGAs and neighbouring states, including Plateau, Nasarawa, Niger, and the FCT.
“Upgrading it to a Federal Medical Centre will greatly improve healthcare accessibility, strengthen tertiary healthcare delivery, and provide opportunities for advanced medical training and research in the area,” he said, thanking the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, for initiating the process.
Governor Sani noted that healthcare facilities in Southern Kaduna, like other senatorial zones, are being upgraded and equipped to standard. He stated that the projects for General Hospitals in Kafanchan, Kaura, Kachia, and Sanga were near completion. Additionally, contracts have been awarded for revitalising and upgrading 53 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across Zone 3.
“We flagged off the distribution of essential medicines worth over N1 billion last week in Kachia LGA. These drugs will be distributed free of charge to children, women, and the elderly,” he recalled.
The event featured cultural dances from different tribes of Southern Kaduna. Governors Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang of Plateau State and Senator Douye Diri of Bayelsa State also attended the occasion.