Uba Sani, navigating Kaduna to the global stage

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna state has been playing a crucial role in promoting the state’s economic potential on the global stage. His administration is keenly focused on diversifying the economy and reducing its reliance on traditional revenue streams. To achieve this, the governor has focused on embracing innovative approaches like public-private partnerships (PPP) and foreign direct investment (FDI). These strategies are helping the state attract international investors and foster sustainable development. One of the remarkable example of his efforts includes signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the China Civil Engineering Corporation (CCECC), aimed at improving Kaduna’s infrastructure.

The MoU with CCECC demonstrates Governor Sani’s commitment to addressing the state’s infrastructural challenges. By partnering with one of China’s largest construction companies, the governor is ensuring that Kaduna benefits from world-class infrastructure, which will create a conducive environment for further investments especially foreign investments. The agreement is a strategic move in diversifying the state’s economy, enabling Kaduna to stand out as a destination of choice for investors.

At a time when Nigeria is grappling with economic uncertainties, Kaduna state, under Governor Sani’s leadership, is positioning itself to benefit from the growing trend of global economic cooperation. Governor Sani’s participation in the China-Nigeria Economic Cooperation and Trade Conference, held in Beijing last year, underscores his proactive approach to attracting foreign investment. His presence at the conference allowed him to engage with Chinese industrialists and business leaders, showcasing the numerous investment opportunities available in Kaduna.

During the conference, Governor Sani made a compelling case for why investors should prioritise Kaduna as a viable destination for investment in Nigeria and across Africa. He highlighted the state’s competitive advantages, including its strategic location, abundant resources, and a growing population that provides a ready market for investors. These factors, combined with the state’s infrastructural development efforts, make Kaduna an attractive choice for foreign businesses looking to expand their operations.

One of the most significant outcomes of the governor’s trip to China was the signing of an MoU for the actualisation of the SMART City Project in Kaduna. This ambitious project is set to transform the state by leveraging technology to improve various aspects of governance and public services. The project aims to create a unified command center, enhance security, implement smart healthcare, and develop intelligent traffic systems, among other innovations. By incorporating these elements, Governor Sani is ensuring that Kaduna becomes a technologically advanced and efficient state.

Kaduna Smart City project is expected to attract at least $150 million in FDI and create approximately 100,000 direct jobs. 

The SMART City Project will also focus on e-government, office automation, and ICT talent development. By integrating technology into governance and administration, Governor Sani is setting a new standard for efficient public service delivery. This initiative is not only aimed at improving the quality of life for the residents of Kaduna but also at making the state a more attractive destination for investors seeking an environment that embraces modern technology.

Renewable energy and public transportation are also key components of the SMART City Project. As part of his commitment to sustainable development, Governor Sani is prioritising the adoption of clean energy solutions to power the state’s growth in line with the global best practice and advocacy. This focus on renewable energy is in line with global trends toward reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change. Additionally, by improving the state’s public transportation system, the governor is ensuring that Kaduna remains accessible and well-connected, further enhancing its appeal to investors.

The SMART City Project’s unified command center and intelligent traffic systems will play a vital role in improving security, making Kaduna a safer place for residents and investors alike. By prioritising security, the governor is ensuring that businesses can operate in a stable and secure environment.

Another significant milestone in driving Kaduna to the global stage is signing an MoU with another international development partners the state of Kuwait and Qatar by Governor Sani in 2023 barely two months with the assumption in office, with the aim to achieve sustainable growth and development in the state. Also, including Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO): The Kaduna state government signed an MoU with the UK’s FCDO to establish an accountability framework, enhancing transparency and accountability in governance. 

Governor Sani’s focus on public-private partnerships (PPP) within and outside Nigeria is another key driver of Kaduna’s economic diversification. Through PPPs, the state can leverage private sector expertise and capital to implement large-scale projects without overburdening the state’s budget. This approach is essential for accelerating development while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

Foreign direct investment (FDI) is a central pillar of the governor’s strategy to diversify Kaduna’s economy. By actively seeking investment from international partners, Governor Sani is opening up new avenues for economic growth. The influx of foreign capital will stimulate job creation, boost local industries, and provide opportunities for skill development. This, in turn, will help the state reduce its dependence on federal allocations and strengthen its economic resilience.

Moreover, in the past seven months, the state has secured over $350 million in investments from Chinese companies in sectors such as solid minerals, infrastructure development, and agriculture, in view of the fact that Kaduna State is among the umbilical cord in food supply to the nation. 

Governor Sani’s ability to navigate the complexities of international trade and diplomacy has been instrumental in his success. His meetings with key players in the Chinese business community illustrate his administrative ingenuity and his understanding of the global economic landscape. By cultivating relationships with foreign investors, Governor Sani is positioning Kaduna as a key player in Nigeria’s economic diversification efforts.

The governor’s commitment to developing Kaduna as an economic hub is evident in his focus on critical sectors such as education, healthcare, security, and technology. By improving these areas, Governor Sani is laying the foundation for sustained economic growth. His emphasis on smart education and healthcare ensures that the state’s human capital is well-prepared to meet the demands of a modern economy.

Security is another key factor in attracting foreign investment, and Governor Sani has taken significant steps to enhance safety across the state. It is no longer news that captivating reports of attacks or kidnappings dominate the headlines of media platforms, where the dark forces of evil perpetrate heinous crimes against innocent people. In response, the governor has demonstrated political will by implementing pragmatic efforts to address the challenge of insecurity because peace and tranquility is the major contributing factor which attract foreign investment. 

The Sani administration is also focused on developing the state’s human resources. By investing in ICT talent and creating opportunities for skill development, the governor is preparing the next generation of Kaduna residents to take on leadership roles in the state’s growing economy. This focus on human capital development is essential for ensuring that Kaduna can compete in the global marketplace.

Governor Uba Sani is using a multifaceted approach to sell Kaduna to the world. Through strategic public-private partnerships, foreign direct investment, and a focus on technology and human capital development, he is positioning the state as a leading destination for global investment. His commitment to infrastructure development, economic diversification, and sustainable growth will undoubtedly elevate Kaduna’s status on the international stage. Governor Sani’s visionary leadership is transforming Kaduna into an economic powerhouse that can compete not only within Nigeria but also on a global scale.