By Dr Sunday Isuwa
As Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State celebrates his 55th birthday today December 31, 2025, the accolades pouring in from prominent leaders like President Bola Tinubu, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen and other national and global leaders underscore a significant achievement.
Governor Uba Sani made several notable achievements in his first two years in office.
In education, the Uba Sani’s administration has constructed schools and renovated many classrooms and provided furniture for pupils.
In agriculture, under his leadership, Kaduna State saw free fertilizer distribution to support smallholder farmers.
Within a period of two years, Sani’s government has focused on infrastructure development, which includes road construction and renovation projects aimed at improving transportation and connectivity within the state.
On health care, the governor’s performance earned him an award just two months ago which was presented to him by the Minister of Health, Ali Pate at an event in Transcorp Hilton Abuja.
I was present during the award presentation organised by journalists with a specialty on health. Governor Sani said something very profound during the event.
“We believe no Nigerian family should be pushed into poverty by seeking essential medical care. Here, equity is not rhetoric for us. It is a principle of governance and justice.”
These are words you expect from leaders. For the Governor, his positive action speaks louder than words.
The governor has done a lot but my focus is on the rise of inclusive leadership in Kaduna since Uba Sani became Governor.
I’ve always known him to be a good man when I covered his activities at the Senate as the head of the National Assembly coverage for LEADERSHIP Newspaper.
He will always tell journalists, “while coming for the interview, come with me brother,” referring to me.
For global leaders to celebrate Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani on this special occasion is not only historic, but significant.
It reflects a broader movement towards equitable governance, which serves as a beacon of hope for Nigeria and beyond.
Uba Sani’s journey and accomplishments in office resonate deeply with the aspirations of a nation yearning for unity and progress.
President Tinubu’s tribute to Governor Sani paints a vivid picture of a leader whose life has been dedicated to the pursuit of justice and equality.
Describing Sani as a younger brother and a friend in Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle, Tinubu revealed the governor’s unwavering commitment to democratic ideals.
This commitment is particularly significant in a country where the political landscape is often marred by division and strife. Uba Sani’s history as a student leader and pro-democracy activist during Nigeria’s military rule is a testament to his courage and his inclusive governance style.
At a time when many chose silence out of fear, Sani stood resolute in his beliefs, advocating for a free and egalitarian society which is guiding his leadership today. His transition from a passionate activist to a statesman exemplifies a rare breed of leaders who prioritize the collective good over personal ambition.
As he celebrates this milestone, it is clear that Uba Sani embodies the essence of what it means to lead with integrity and purpose. He is redefining leadership in Kaduna for people to know and understand that “we are one family under God.”
Inclusive leadership, as exemplified by Uba Sani, is now working for the people of Kaduna State. Only love can bring understanding and potential, only peace can bring development.
Inclusive leadership as exemplified by Uba Sani is vital in a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society like Nigeria and I think many should learn from this.
Marginalisation often leads to conflict and social unrest. Governor Sani’s administration has focused on fostering a sense of belonging among all citizens, regardless of their backgrounds.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, also from Kaduna State, further commended Uba Sani for his inclusivity.
Abbas’ acknowledgment of Sani as a “beacon of hope” and a “true democrat” speaks volumes about the impact of inclusive governance in Kaduna.
The emphasis on rural development and the spread of the dividends of democracy across the state sum up the tangible benefits of Sani’s leadership. Communities that were once neglected now see progress, with infrastructure development and social programmes aimed at uplifting the vulnerable.
By prioritizing rural development, Sani is not just addressing immediate needs; he is also investing in the future of Kaduna State. This focus on inclusivity ensures that marginalised voices are heard, and their needs are met. This is a crucial aspect of sustainable governance.
The governor’s ability to bring together diverse groups—political leaders, community representatives, and citizens—demonstrates a profound understanding of the complexities of Kaduna’s socio-political landscape. By fostering an environment where dialogue can flourish, Sani is not only addressing immediate conflicts but also laying the groundwork for a more cohesive society.
Uba Sani’s contributions to economic policy, particularly during his time as a Senator that I covered, have also earned him praise. I remembered Senator Uba Sani emerged the best from Kaduna State in the first year assessment I did on lawmakers (2019-2020).
The passage of the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act (BOFIA) 2020 is a significant milestone that enhanced financial stability and embraced innovation in Nigeria’s banking sector. This legislation, promoted by Uba Sani as Senator, expanded access to credit for businesses and entrepreneurs, thus promoting economic growth and development.
As governor, Sani has continued to champion policies that support economic innovation. His administration’s focus on creating an enabling environment for businesses—especially in the fintech sector. This has attracted both local and international investments. This economic dynamism is crucial for the overall development of Kaduna and showcases the effectiveness of inclusive governance in driving progress.
Governor Uba Sani’s leadership style which has gained both local, national and international admiration, centred on his insistence on inclusivity, empathy, and accountability.
As he marks his 55th year, it is clear that his governance model is resonating with citizens. Uba Sani stands out as a leader who has not only embraced the ideals of democracy but has also made them actionable. His administration serves as a template for other leaders, showcasing how inclusive governance can lead to meaningful change.
As we celebrate Uba Sani at 55, it is essential for us to also look at the future. The lessons learned from his leadership must be leveraged to inspire the next generation of leaders. The challenges Nigeria faces are immense, but with leaders like Sani at the helm, there is hope for a more inclusive and just society.
The call for inclusive leadership is more relevant than ever. It is a reminder that governance should not be a privilege for the few but a right for all. Uba Sani’s journey illustrates the power of courage, empathy, and commitment to the greater good. As he continues to lead Kaduna State, the admiration he garners will likely serve as a catalyst for positive change across Nigeria.
Uba Sani’s 55th birthday is not just a personal celebration; it is a celebration of inclusive leadership that has transformed Kaduna and inspired many. As we honour his achievements, let us also commit to fostering inclusivity in our communities, ensuring that every voice is heard and every citizen has a stake in the future of our great nation.
Sunday Isuwa PhD is a multiple award winning journalist/editor
