Tinubu hails Sani at 55 as beacon of sacrifice, reform

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has praised Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani as he marks his 55th birthday on December 31, portraying him as a principled pro-democracy activist turned compassionate leader whose life offers “golden lessons” for Nigeria’s youth.

In a statement he signed, Tinubu described Sani as “my younger brother and friend in the struggle for democracy in Nigeria,” highlighting his evolution from student leader and anti-military activist to reformist senator and governor.

“The life, struggles, and triumphs of Governor Sani glisten with golden lessons, especially for our younger ones,” Tinubu wrote. “As a young man, he identified a noble purpose for his life: the quest for a free and egalitarian society.”

Tinubu lauded Sani’s legislative legacy, particularly his role in the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act (BOFIA) 2020 during his time as a senator in the 9th National Assembly. The president noted that the law “strengthened financial stability, embraced innovation, laid a solid foundation for fintech growth and expanded access to credit for businesses and entrepreneurs,” calling it a “testament to his capacity to deliver enduring reforms.”

President Tinubu noted that since taking office on 29 May 2023, Sani has brought “a refreshing tone to governance,” emphasising his inclusive model that has healed ethnic and religious divides in Kaduna. The president spotlighted progress in volatile areas like Birnin Gwari, where banditry once prevailed. “Kaduna, once burdened by recurrent tensions, has witnessed remarkable calm and cohesion under his watch,” Tinubu stated. “Birnin Gwari… has gotten its groove back, with farmers returning to their farms and agricultural commerce booming.”

Achievements in infrastructure, healthcare, industrialisation, and agriculture underscore Sani’s focus on equitable development, Tinubu added, crediting his partnerships with traditional rulers, religious leaders, and communities for enhanced security and prosperity. He also affirmed Sani’s loyalty as a “trusted and reliable ally” advancing the APC’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Tinubu concluded with prayers for Sani’s health and wisdom: “As you mark this milestone in prayer, I join your family, friends, and the good people of Kaduna State in wishing you good health, strength, greater accomplishments, and renewed wisdom to continue your selfless service to our country.”