Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani has positioned himself as a rallying point for unity within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), using the party’s North-West Zonal Congress in Kaduna to reaffirm internal democracy, welcome new entrants, and strongly defend the reform agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Addressing party leaders, delegates and stakeholders, Sani described the congress as a clear demonstration of the APC’s democratic credentials.
“This Zonal Congress stands as a powerful affirmation of the APC’s identity as a truly democratic and grassroots-driven political party,” he said, stressing that leadership within the party is determined through transparent processes that reflect the will of members.
The governor said hosting the congress was both “a profound honour and a deep sense of responsibility,” underscoring Kaduna State’s strategic role in shaping the party’s future direction.
A major highlight of the event was the reception of new entrants into the party, including Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, and Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal. Sani described their defection as “momentous,” noting that it would strengthen the APC’s national outlook.
“We receive you with open arms, in a spirit of unity, mutual respect, and shared destiny,” he said.
In a move to ease internal tensions, the governor assured both old and new members of equal standing within the party.
“Whether you joined years ago or today, you stand on equal footing with all members. This is a party where commitment, contribution and conviction not chronology define relevance,” he added.
Sani also used the platform to align firmly with Tinubu’s administration, offering a robust defence of ongoing economic and structural reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He described the president’s leadership as one defined by “courage, clarity of vision and an unyielding commitment to repositioning Nigeria for sustainable progress.”
Highlighting key sectors, the governor said targeted interventions in agriculture were boosting productivity, while reforms in the oil and gas sector were improving efficiency and strengthening energy security. He also cited the student loan scheme as a critical social intervention expanding access to education.
On infrastructure, Sani said federal investments in roads, rail and energy were already stimulating economic activities across the country.
“Massive investments in roads, rail and energy are reconnecting communities, stimulating commerce and unlocking new economic opportunities,” he said.
He further localised the impact of the reforms, stating that Kaduna and the wider North-West were already witnessing improvements in security and economic activities.
“Security has improved, farmers are returning to their fields, markets are thriving again, and confidence is steadily being restored in our communities,” he said.
Calling for unity and discipline within party ranks, the governor urged delegates to see the congress as more than a leadership selection process.
“This congress is not only about leadership selection; it is about strengthening our unity, deepening our structures and aligning our strategies for the future,” he said, urging participants to take the message of progress back to their constituencies.
Dignitaries at the event included Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajuddeen, ministers, governors from the North-West and other top party officials.
Meanwhile, Garba Datti Babawo was returned unopposed as APC National Vice Chairman (North-West) through a consensus arrangement.
He thanked governors and delegates in the zone for renewing their mandate, pledging to work towards delivering the region for President Tinubu and APC governors in the next electoral cycle.
