The Kaduna State Government, under Governor Uba Sani’s leadership, has embarked on a significant infrastructure development drive, focusing primarily on road construction and rehabilitation. Over the past 21 months, the administration has awarded 78 road projects spanning a total of 775 kilometers, showcasing a commitment to improving transportation networks across the state. Remarkably, despite inheriting various challenges, including financial liabilities, incomplete documentation, and inflated contracts from the previous administration, the government has managed to complete 21 of these projects, opening them for public use and stimulating economic activity across the 23 local government areas. This achievement highlights the administration’s dedication to overcoming obstacles and delivering tangible results for the benefit of its citizens. A prime example of this progress is the recently completed and commissioned Kaduna Bridge connecting Kabala Costain to Aliyu Makama Road, a project aimed at alleviating traffic congestion on the crucial Ahmadu Bello Way-Junction Road artery, a vital transportation link within the state capital.
The challenges inherited from the previous administration’s Urban Renewal Programme were substantial, posing significant hurdles for the current government. These included inflated contract claims from contractors who had already received substantial payments but failed to complete their projects. Some of these claims were so exorbitant they could have financed entirely new road projects, underscoring the financial mismanagement and lack of accountability that characterized the previous administration’s handling of infrastructure projects. The current administration, faced with these complex issues, adopted a strategic approach, prioritizing negotiation and peaceful resolution to address the lingering liabilities and pave the way for progress. This commitment to resolving past issues while simultaneously pushing forward with new projects demonstrates a balanced approach to infrastructure development and fiscal responsibility.
Beyond road infrastructure, the Kaduna State Government has also prioritized addressing the critical issue of water supply. Upon assuming office, the administration encountered a dire situation, with the water supply scheme operating at a mere 5% capacity utilization. This severely limited access to clean water for residents across the state. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Governor Sani declared a state of emergency in the water sector, prompting a series of interventions aimed at revitalizing the water supply system. These efforts have yielded significant results, boosting capacity utilization to 30% and setting the ambitious target of reaching 100% by the end of the year. This demonstrates a proactive approach to tackling a critical public service issue and ensuring access to a fundamental resource.
The administration’s commitment to the water sector extends beyond infrastructure improvements. Recognizing the importance of a motivated workforce, the government addressed the longstanding issue of unpaid salaries for Kaduna Water Corporation staff, settling arrears amounting to N800 million. Furthermore, they tackled the substantial outstanding electricity bill of N1.3 billion, removing a significant financial burden that hampered the corporation’s operational efficiency. These measures demonstrate a comprehensive approach to revitalizing the water sector, addressing both infrastructural and human resource challenges to ensure sustainable improvements in water service delivery.
The financial investment in the water sector has been substantial. Following the declaration of a state of emergency, the state government injected over N25 billion into the sector between September and December 2024. This significant investment reflects the administration’s commitment to addressing the water crisis and improving service delivery for residents. Moreover, the government plans to invest over N100 billion in the water sector throughout 2025, further solidifying its commitment to achieving the ambitious goal of 100% water supply capacity by the end of the year. This sustained investment signals a long-term vision for ensuring reliable access to clean water for the people of Kaduna State.
In summary, the Kaduna State Government, under Governor Uba Sani, has demonstrated a clear focus on infrastructure development, particularly in the areas of road construction and water supply. Despite inheriting numerous challenges, the administration has made significant progress in completing road projects and revitalizing the water sector. By addressing inherited liabilities, investing in infrastructure upgrades, and prioritizing the welfare of its workforce, the government has laid the groundwork for substantial improvements in public services and economic development across the state. The ambitious targets set for water supply capacity and the ongoing investments in both road and water infrastructure underscore the administration’s commitment to delivering tangible benefits and improving the quality of life for the citizens of Kaduna State.
