Uba Sani Emerges 2026 Governor of the Year, Lauded for Security Gains, Unity Drive
By Bashir Rabe Mani 
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has been honoured with the 2026 Governor of the Year Award at the National Leadership Awards held 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, Chief BJ Opara, described Governor 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.
Represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Information, Malam 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 stated.
Malam 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, resulting 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 to stimulate economic growth and improve livelihoods.
The National Leadership Awards is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s foremost platforms for recognising excellence in public service and governance.
