By Ismaila Mustapha
For many in Kaduna State, the past few years have been a whirlwind of uncertainty. Families watched as lands they had developed were stripped from them, businesses faced abrupt shutdowns, and even age-old traditional institutions suffered political turbulence. But today, a renewed sense of hope is sweeping through the state, thanks to Governor Uba Sani’s commitment to fairness, economic growth,social stability, and inclusive governance in Kaduna state
One of the most symbolic moves in his administration so far has been the reinstatement of the four land titles belonging to Fifth Chukker Resort Limited, a world-renowned polo and country club situated after Maraban Jos in Igabi Local Government Area. The land, which had been controversially revoked by the administration of former governor Nasir El-Rufai, is now back in the hands of its rightful owners. But this decision is not just about restoring property rights; it is part of a broader vision to create a business-friendly Kaduna where investors can thrive without fear of abrupt policy somersault .
Fifth Chukker has been more than just a polo club; it has been a hub of tourism, a meeting point for international visitors, and an economic driver in Kaduna State. The revocation of its land titles sent shockwaves across the business community, raising concerns about the government’s stance on investment security. With the reinstatement, Governor Uba Sani has signaled that Kaduna is now open for business under a transparent and investor-friendly administration.
Dr. Bashir Garba, Director General of Kaduna Geographic Information Service (KADGIS), confirmed the reinstatement, emphasizing that Governor Uba Sani is determined to foster an environment that attracts investment, boosts job creation, and ensures revenue generation. The governor’s actions reflect his broader ambition to make Kaduna State an economic powerhouse, where businesses operate without unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles or political interference.
Governor Uba Sani’s commitment to righting past wrongs extends beyond businesses and into traditional institutions. Several monarchs who were unjustly removed during the El-Rufai administration have now been reinstated, restoring stability to communities that revere these traditional leaders. In Nigeria, traditional institutions play a crucial role in governance, community engagement, and social stability. By restoring their titles, Governor Sani has shown his understanding of the delicate balance between modern governance and cultural heritage.
One such monarch, reinstated after years of uncertainty, expressed his gratitude: “Our people have felt the void of leadership, but now they have a voice again. The governor’s decision to reinstate us is not just about giving us back our titles—it’s about restoring the dignity and heritage of our communities.”
For many residents, this move is deeply personal. Communities that had been divided over leadership disputes can now heal and focus on progress. It is a reminder that governance is not just about policies and numbers but about the lives and histories of people.
While these reinstatements make headlines, they are just a small part of a larger, ambitious economic agenda that Governor Uba Sani is driving in Kaduna State. His administration has launched several initiatives aimed at reviving industries, boosting local businesses, and creating job opportunities for residents.
Agriculture remains the backbone of Kaduna’s economy, providing livelihoods for millions. Governor Sani has prioritized agribusiness by providing incentives for smallholder farmers, improving access to fertilizers, and investing in modern farming techniques. Through partnerships with private investors, the government is working on agro-processing plants to ensure that Kaduna’s agricultural produce is not just exported raw but processed for higher value.
The governor’s focus on rural economic development is particularly impactful for small-scale farmers like Musa Ibrahim, a maize farmer in Giwa. “For the first time in years, we have access to improved seeds and fertilizers at a subsidized rate. This year’s harvest is already looking promising,” he shared.
Good road networks are essential for economic growth, and Governor Sani has taken infrastructure development seriously. Several road rehabilitation projects have been launched across the state, particularly in rural areas where poor roads have hampered trade and access to markets.
A case in point is the recently completed Kachia-Kafanchan road, which has significantly reduced travel time and boosted trade between the two towns. A local trader, Aisha Mohammed, noted, “Before, I spent hours trying to transport my goods. Now, I get to the market in half the time, and my business is thriving.”
Beyond reinstating land titles, the Kaduna State government is actively working to attract new investors. Governor Sani’s administration has introduced policies that streamline the process of acquiring business permits, making it easier for both local and international investors to set up businesses in the state.
Additionally, the state government is working on industrial parks where manufacturers can set up factories with access to necessary infrastructure like electricity, water, and roads. These parks are expected to create thousands of jobs and make Kaduna a competitive industrial hub in Nigeria.
No economic growth can be sustained without security, and Governor Sani has made this a top priority. His administration has enhanced collaboration with security agencies, leading to a reduction in incidents of banditry and kidnappings in previously volatile areas.
Residents of communities that once lived in fear are beginning to rebuild their lives. “We used to sleep with one eye open, afraid of attacks. But things are changing. We are seeing more patrols, and people are gradually returning to their farms,” said Samuel Garba, a resident of Birnin Gwari.
The most telling sign of progress is how policies impact the daily lives of citizens. Under Governor Uba Sani, stories of renewed hope abound. From business owners who now have the confidence to reinvest in the state, to farmers seeing improved yields, to communities celebrating the return of their monarchs, there is an undeniable shift in Kaduna’s socio-economic landscape.
Maryam Lawal, a young entrepreneur who recently set up a fashion business in Kaduna, captures the mood best: “There’s a renewed sense of optimism in the air. Before now, we didn’t know what direction Kaduna was headed, but now we see leadership that is responsive, fair, and truly invested in the people.”
Governor Uba Sani’s administration is proving that governance can be people-focused, fair, and impactful. By reinstating revoked land titles, restoring monarchs, and championing economic reforms, he is not just correcting the past but laying the groundwork for a prosperous future.
As Kaduna continues on this trajectory, one thing is clear: the state is open for business, its people are hopeful, and a new era of inclusive growth is on the horizon. Governor Uba Sani’s leadership is redefining governance in Kaduna, proving that with the right policies and political will, transformation is possible.
• Mustapha writes from Abuja