FLASH POINT

For many years, Kaduna State stood at the centre of Nigeria’s security crisis in the North-West. Banditry, mass kidnappings, communal clashes, and violent attacks became recurring headlines, leaving deep scars on communities and undermining socio-economic development. However, since the emergence of Senator Uba Sani as Governor in May 2023, the state has begun to witness a gradual but notable shift in its security narrative.

This article examines what was obtainable before the Uba Sani administration and the progress recorded so far under his leadership.

Security Situation Before the Uba Sani Administration

Before 2023, Kaduna State grappled with severe insecurity that affected both rural and semi-urban areas. Armed bandits operated freely in many local government areas, particularly in Southern and Central Kaduna. Kidnapping for ransom became widespread, targeting students, commuters, farmers, and entire villages.

Several communities were forced to abandon their homes, farmlands were left uncultivated, and economic activities slowed drastically. Schools and health centres were shut down due to repeated attacks and threats, worsening the humanitarian situation. Major highways and rural roads were unsafe, creating fear among residents and limiting movement.

Although security agencies were active, the approach was largely reactive and force-driven, with limited community involvement. The absence of trust between some communities and the government further complicated intelligence gathering and early response to threats.

The Situation Inherited in 2023

When Governor Uba Sani assumed office, he inherited a state still battling the consequences of years of insecurity:

High levels of kidnapping and banditry

Displaced communities and abandoned villages

Closed schools and health facilities

Weak community–government trust

A fragile security environment requiring urgent intervention

This reality demanded not just military action, but a rethink of strategy and governance.

Security Approach Under the Uba Sani Administration

Governor Uba Sani introduced what many observers now describe as a people-centred and intelligence-driven security strategy, often referred to as the Kaduna Peace Model. The approach focuses on prevention, dialogue, and collaboration alongside security enforcement.

Key elements include:

Community engagement and reconciliation, especially in conflict-prone areas

Improved intelligence gathering through local cooperation

Close collaboration with security agencies at state and federal levels

Regional cooperation with neighbouring North-West states

Clear warnings against community protection of criminals and informants

This strategy recognises that sustainable security cannot be achieved by force alone, but by winning community trust and addressing root causes.

Progress Recorded So Far

Since 2023, the Kaduna State Government has reported several notable gains:

Reduction in violent conflicts across many parts of the state

Reopening of over 160 schools and more than 200 health centres previously closed due to insecurity

Improved safety along key roads and farming communities

Increased return of displaced persons to their communities

Public acknowledgement from military leadership that Kaduna has become relatively more peaceful

While isolated incidents still occur, the frequency and scale of attacks are widely considered lower than in previous years.

Public Perception and Remaining Challenges

Independent reports suggest that while insecurity has not been completely eliminated, there is a clear improvement compared to the pre-2023 period. Residents in several local government areas now experience greater freedom of movement and renewed economic activity.

However, challenges remain. Banditry has not been fully eradicated, and long-term peace will depend on sustained commitment, youth engagement, economic empowerment, and continued cooperation between communities and security agencies.

Conclusion

The Uba Sani administration marks a new phase in Kaduna State’s security journey. By shifting from a purely force-based response to a more inclusive and intelligence-driven approach, the government has begun to restore confidence and stability in many parts of the state.

Though the road ahead remains long, the progress recorded so far suggests that Kaduna is gradually moving away from its darkest security years toward a future of improved peace, resilience, and development.

ALIYU MOHAMMED
DIRECTOR GENERAL
UBA SANI AGAIN FORUM.