Uba Sani emerges 2026 Governor of the Year, lauded for security gains, unity drive

Uba Sani, Governor of Kaduna State, has been honoured with the 2026 Governor of the Year Award at the National Leadership Awards, held on Tuesday at Merit House, Abuja.

Organisers said the award recognises the governor’s courageous, people-centred leadership, citing measurable progress in security restoration, social cohesion and accelerated infrastructure delivery across the state.

Presenting the award, Team Lead of the National Leadership Summit Group, BJ Opara, described Sani’s stewardship as impactful and exemplary.

“Governor Uba Sani exemplifies the leadership Nigeria urgently needs — resilient in confronting security challenges, deliberate in uniting a diverse populace, and steadfast in delivering tangible development. Kaduna’s trajectory under his watch is a compelling model of purposeful governance,” Opara said.

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Represented by the Commissioner for Information, Ahmed Maiyaki, the governor expressed appreciation for the recognition, dedicating the honour to the people of Kaduna State.

“This award reflects the collective resolve of our people and our administration’s unwavering commitment to peace, inclusive growth and sustainable development. We remain focused on consolidating these gains for a safer and more united Kaduna,” he said.

Maiyaki noted that the administration has recorded significant improvements in security, driven by intelligence-led operations, strengthened collaboration with security agencies, and expanded community engagement. These efforts, he said, have resulted in reduced incidents of banditry and renewed public confidence, particularly in previously affected areas.

He further highlighted the governor’s deliberate peacebuilding and reconciliation efforts, which have helped bridge long-standing divides and foster unity among Kaduna’s diverse ethnic and religious communities, alongside ongoing investments in critical infrastructure aimed at stimulating economic growth and improving livelihoods.

The National Leadership Awards is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s foremost platforms for recognising excellence in public service and governance.