Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, on Tuesday the 27th of January 2026, flagged off the reconstruction and enhancement of the 60-kilometre internal road network within the main campus of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria.
While addressing stakeholders at the ground-breaking ceremony, the governor highlighted that the project goes beyond road construction, stressing that ‘’proper drainage, lighting, pedestrian walkways and disability-accessible routes are integral to this upgrade.’’
He explained that his administration considers education a strategic investment, regardless of institutional ownership, noting, ‘’Although ABU is a federal university, my administration firmly believes that investing in education is investing in our future.
That conviction compels us to support projects that remove barriers to learning and improve the daily lives of students, staff and the host communities.
‘’We will continue to partner with institutions, whether federal or state, because an educated populace is the surest path to prosperity, security and good governance.’’
Governor Sani said the initiative reflects his government’s resolve to reinforce infrastructure that enhances academic excellence at ABU, describing the university as one of Nigeria’s most revered centres of learning.
According to him, ‘’the project is more than the laying of asphalt and concrete. It is about safety, accessibility, and dignity. Well-planned internal roads will improve access for emergency and service vehicles.’’
He added that the intervention would ‘’facilitate the movement of students and staff, enhance campus security, and make the university environment more conducive to academic pursuits.’’
The governor assured that the work would be executed with durability and environmental consciousness, pledging adherence to ‘’high engineering standards, durable materials, and effective stormwater management that respects the campus environment.’’
He further noted that an improved internal road system would enable the institution to host major academic activities and attract more collaborations, thereby ‘’bringing more visitors, partnerships and investment into our State.’’
Beyond academic benefits, Governor Sani said the project would stimulate the local economy, pointing out that ‘’artisans and labourers will be engaged, creating jobs for youth and boosting the economic life of Sabon Gari, Zaria and surrounding communities.’’
Reflecting on ABU’s legacy, the governor recalled that the university, named after the first Premier of Northern Nigeria, ‘’has educated generations of leaders, professionals, and scholars who continue to shape our nation.’’
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In his welcome remarks, ABU Vice Chancellor, Professor Adamu Ahmed, described the governor’s intervention as timely and impactful, noting that his support came at a critical moment for the institution.
Professor Ahmed also thanked the governor ‘’ for the generous land grants to the University to support staff housing,’’ stating that ‘’this gesture speaks directly to staff welfare, institutional stability, and long-term sustainability.’’
He added, ‘’By enabling improved living conditions for our staff, you are strengthening morale, productivity, and commitment key pillars for any university that seeks excellence.’’
Commending Governor Sani’s leadership style, the Vice Chancellor said it is ‘’marked by generosity, empathy, and foresight. These qualities are vital ingredients of democratic leadership, and they have clearly defined your administration.’’
He concluded by noting that ‘’In just two years, your approach to governance has helped restore confidence, promote stability, and renew hope across Kaduna State. The impact is visible, and institutions such as ours are direct beneficiaries.’’