In an affirmation of federal-state collaboration, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani on Friday credited National Security Adviser Malam Nuhu Ribadu with restoring security along the troubled Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano corridor—an intervention he said made it possible to resume long-delayed reconstruction work on the strategic highway.
Speaking at the launch of the second phase of the road’s construction, Governor Sani said the federal project had long been impeded by persistent threats from bandits and other criminal groups operating in the area. “For years, the project was stalled due to persistent security challenges along the route,” he said. “However, today, commuters can travel the highway without fear of criminal activity.”
The 375-kilometer stretch is one of Nigeria’s busiest transport corridors, connecting the Federal Capital Territory to key cities in the North. But over the last several years, it gained notoriety as a hotspot for kidnappings, ambushes, and armed robberies—forcing transporters, private commuters, and even security escorts to exercise extreme caution or avoid it altogether.
That narrative, Sani said, has changed.
“The commencement of the reconstruction of the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano Road would not have been possible without the support and close collaboration of the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu,” the governor said, describing Ribadu’s role as instrumental in deploying coordinated security measures that have “effectively addressed” the threats.
Since his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2023, Ribadu has spearheaded several inter-agency efforts to tackle insecurity nationwide. Governor Sani said the NSA’s leadership had restored not only road safety but broader public confidence in the region’s security architecture.
“Through the coordinated efforts led by the National Security Adviser, security forces have restored stability along the corridor and across Kaduna State,” Sani noted.
Beyond highway patrols and tactical deployments, the state has also been working with Ribadu’s office to implement a conflict resolution framework known as the Kaduna Peace Model. The initiative—largely community-driven—aims to foster reconciliation and coexistence in areas previously fractured by ethno-religious and herder-farmer conflicts.
“The Kaduna State Government has been working closely with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) to implement the Kaduna Peace Model, which has brought renewed calm to previously conflict-ridden communities in the state,” the governor said.
With security restored, the long-delayed highway reconstruction now moves into a critical phase, with contractors mobilizing for major works across several segments. The road’s completion is expected to boost regional trade, reduce travel time, and improve the overall economic outlook for northern Nigeria.
