Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has reiterated his commitment to building a state where diversity is a source of strength and every citizen can pursue a life of dignity and opportunity.
The Governor, who made this known as the Chief Host at the 50th anniversary celebration of the Nigeria Aid Group of Islam, Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), on Saturday, noted that his vision is anchored on unity, peace, and sustainable development.
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He further said that this commitment has guided his administration’s prioritisation of security, restoration of confidence, and enabling the free movement of people across communities once plagued by fear.
Governor Uba Sani commended the vision of the founding fathers of the Aid Group, especially the late Sultan of Sokoto, Sir Abubakar III; the late Emir of Katsina, Sir Usman Nagogo; the late Sheikh Abubakar Gummi; and the Shattiman Katsina, Alhaji Muhammadu Ali Kaita.
According to him, “they understood, with rare clarity, that the strength of faith is measured not only by devotion, but by service to humanity.”
“For five decades, this organisation has upheld that principle, advancing education, healthcare, social welfare, and community development, touching lives across religious, ethnic, and social lines,” he added.
The Governor noted that the role of the Nigeria Aid Group of Islam, Jama’atu Nasril Islam, alongside sister aid groups, in the coordination of Hajj operations stands as a powerful symbol of discipline, unity, and organisational excellence.
“Over the years, the group has evolved into a professional institution distinguished by its work in advocacy, public awareness, and disaster management,” he said.
Governor Uba Sani recalled that his administration has established three Institutes of Vocational Training and Skills Development, training 32,000 youths annually and equipping them for productive futures.
He thanked the leadership of the Aid Group for honouring him to serve as its Patron, adding that he received the Award of Excellence with gratitude.
He noted that the honour and award are not signs of personal distinction, “but recognition of our collective commitment to compassion, inclusion, and development.”
Speaking at the occasion, Khalid Abubakar Aliyu, the Secretary-General of JNI, thanked Governor Uba Sani for hosting the event.
“Our organisation is the first uniformed First Aid voluntary organisation in Nigeria, which has grown from strength to strength without friction or internal crises,” he noted.
According to him, the Aid Group has a presence in all the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, and has established a reputation for providing timely and efficient assistance to those in need.
“Over the years, we have achieved significant milestones, including the establishment of schools, hospitals, and other developmental projects. We have also been at the forefront of promoting interfaith dialogue,” he added.
The Political Adviser to President Bola Tinubu, Ibrahim Masari, who donated ₦100 million and ₦50 million on behalf of himself and his mother, respectively, highlighted the role of the Aid Group in transforming the youth.
He advised youths to shun drug abuse, which has become a major driver of crime, radicalisation, and the breakdown of social order, adding that no nation can prosper when its youths are derailed.
Hope Uzodimma, Governor of Imo State and Chairman of the Progressives Governors’ Forum, donated ₦100 million, while the Governor of Yobe State, represented by his Deputy, Idi Barde Gubana, donated ₦50 million.
