President Bola Tinubu and Kaduna Governor Uba Sani
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended warm congratulations to Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, as he marks his 55th birthday, paying glowing tribute to his journey from pro-democracy activism to public service and governance.
In a heartfelt message to commemorate the milestone, President Tinubu described Governor Sani as a trusted ally, friend, and comrade in Nigeria’s long struggle for democracy, praising his character, leadership style, and contributions to national development.
“I warmly congratulate my younger brother and friend in the struggle for democracy in Nigeria, Comrade Uba Sani, the governor of Kaduna State, as he turns 55 on December 31.”
The President said Governor Sani’s life story offers enduring lessons, particularly for young Nigerians, noting that his early commitment to the ideals of freedom and equality defined his path in public life.
“The life, struggles, and triumphs of Governor Sani glisten with golden lessons, especially for our younger ones. As a young man, he identified a noble purpose for his life: the quest for a free and egalitarian society. It was a cause that some of us chose not for personal gain or self-promotion, but for the betterment of our society and the freedom of our people.”
President Tinubu recalled Governor Sani’s role as a student leader and pro-democracy activist during the era of military rule, describing him as part of a rare generation that chose conviction over convenience.
“Governor Uba Sani represents a rare generation of leaders whose journey into power was preceded by sacrifice and principle. As a young student leader and later a pro-democracy activist during the dark days of military rule, he stood firmly on the side of justice, freedom, and national unity. At a time when fear was widespread and silence tempting, he—like a few of us—chose the more challenging path of conviction. In power, he has not abandoned the history of struggle; somewhat, it has matured into statesmanship, guiding his conduct in office with humility, empathy, and resolve.”
Reflecting on his time in the National Assembly, Tinubu noted that Governor Sani distinguished himself as a reform-minded legislator, citing his role in the passage of the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act (BOFIA) 2020 as a landmark achievement.
“As a Senator of the Federal Republic in the 9th National Assembly, Uba Sani proved himself a reformist lawmaker and a thinker. His legislative contributions, particularly the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act (BOFIA) 2020, demonstrated foresight and a deep understanding of Nigeria’s future. That legislation strengthened financial stability, embraced innovation, laid a solid foundation for fintech growth and expanded access to credit for businesses and entrepreneurs. It remains a testament to his capacity to deliver enduring reforms.”
The President said Governor Sani has brought a renewed sense of compassion and inclusiveness to governance since assuming office on May 29, 2023, adding that his emphasis on dialogue and reconciliation has helped stabilise Kaduna State.
“Since assuming office as Governor on May 29, 2023, Uba Sani has brought a refreshing tone to governance in Kaduna State. He has proven that he is not just a man of conviction, but also a man of compassion. His dedication to dialogue, reconciliation, and development continues to inspire the diverse people of Kaduna State.”
Tinubu also highlighted improvements in peace and security across the state, particularly in areas previously affected by banditry, attributing the progress to the governor’s inclusive leadership model.
“Through Governor Sani’s peculiar and deliberate inclusive governance model, he has united the people, healed ethnic and religious divisions and restored trust across communities. Kaduna, once burdened by recurrent tensions, has witnessed remarkable calm and cohesion under his watch. Birni Gwari, which was once desolate due to banditry, has gotten its groove back, with farmers returning to their farms and agricultural commerce booming. By engaging traditional rulers, religious leaders and local communities as partners in peace, Governor Sani has deepened safety, security and fostered sustainable development.”
According to the President, the administration’s strides in infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, and industrialisation underscore a commitment to people-centred development.
“His administration’s achievements in infrastructure, healthcare, industrialisation, and agriculture reflect a clear understanding that development must touch lives equitably. By reconnecting communities, expanding access to quality healthcare, and empowering farmers as drivers of food security and economic stability, Governor Sani has transformed governance in the state and positioned Kaduna for long-term prosperity.”
President Tinubu further described Governor Sani as a dependable partner in advancing the agenda of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Renewed Hope vision of his administration.
“Governor Uba Sani has also been a trusted and reliable ally of this administration. His commitment to the ideals and objectives of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and his active participation in advancing our Renewed Hope Agenda reaffirm his belief that democracy must deliver tangible benefits to the people.”
As the Kaduna governor marks his 55th birthday, the President said he remains proud of his political journey and service to the nation.
“As Uba Sani turns 55, I am proud of his remarkable trajectory, from pro-democracy activist to a key participant in the collective effort to consolidate democratic gains and good governance.”
Tinubu concluded by offering prayers and best wishes to the governor on behalf of himself and the nation.
“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.”
