The release of the 2025 Phillips Consulting State Performance Index (pSPI) has highlighted Kaduna State’s remarkable progress, placing it third nationally and awarding it an Excellent Four-Star Rating. The recognition underscores the state’s steady transformation and serves as independent validation of the inclusive and reform-driven leadership of Governor Uba Sani since assuming office on May 29, 2023.
The ranking reflects measurable improvements across key governance indicators, including fiscal management, economic development, infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, security, and social inclusion. Based on a methodology that combines objective data with citizen feedback, the assessment confirms Kaduna’s significant strides in areas critical to human development and public welfare.
Governor Sani’s leadership has been defined by dialogue, inclusivity, and service-driven governance. Taking office at a time when insecurity and social fragmentation had eroded public trust, he prioritised rebuilding confidence through structured engagement and targeted interventions.
A central pillar of his security approach is the Kaduna Peace Model, which integrates the efforts of security agencies, traditional rulers, and community stakeholders. This holistic framework addresses both immediate security challenges and their root causes. The result has been a notable reduction in violent crime, renewed confidence in affected communities, the return of farmers to their fields, and improved stability in school operations.
On fiscal management, the administration has maintained strict discipline despite inherited debt burdens. Rather than resorting to excessive borrowing, the government prioritised sustainability, repaying over ₦90 billion in inherited debts without accumulating new loans. This prudent approach has strengthened investor confidence and improved revenue performance.
Transparency and accountability have also become defining features of governance in Kaduna State. For two consecutive years, the state has ranked among Nigeria’s most transparent and accountable, according to the Transparency and Integrity Index published by the Centre for Fiscal Transparency and Public Integrity, with support from the MacArthur Foundation.
Reforms in procurement processes, citizen engagement, and fiscal reporting—supported by the Open Government Partnership framework and the State Action Plan III (2024–2027)—have deepened openness in governance and strengthened public trust.
In revenue generation, Kaduna has recorded significant growth. Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), which stood at about ₦5 billion monthly at the start of the administration, has risen sharply through reforms in tax administration, automation, and expanded compliance systems.
The PAYKADUNA integrated tax platform has played a key role in reducing leakages and improving efficiency. As a result, Kaduna generated ₦62.48 billion in 2023, ₦71 billion in 2024, and ₦86 billion in 2025, with projections approaching ₦90 billion by 2026. These gains reflect structural reforms rather than increased tax pressure on citizens.
The improved fiscal position has enabled Kaduna to sustain salaries, fund development projects, and attract investments without compromising financial stability. Investor confidence has also strengthened, with the state attracting over $2.5 billion in investments in recent years.
Economic reforms have further positioned Kaduna as an emerging investment destination. Through initiatives aimed at diversification beyond traditional revenue sources, the state has supported entrepreneurship, industrial development, and job creation. The Kaduna State Economic Development Agency has facilitated partnerships that have stimulated growth and expanded economic opportunities.
Infrastructure development remains another key achievement area. Over 150 road projects covering approximately 1,345 kilometres have been initiated across all 23 local government areas, improving connectivity, trade, and mobility. Notable projects include the Gadan Gayan–Gwaraji–Kujama Road and the ongoing Bagoma–Gagumi Road in Birnin Gwari, both of which are expected to enhance economic activity and agricultural productivity.
In healthcare, Kaduna has made significant progress by upgrading all 255 Primary Healthcare Centres to Level II status—the first state in Nigeria to achieve this milestone. Increased funding has supported facility upgrades, expanded immunisation coverage, and improved maternal and child health outcomes.
Education has also remained a top priority, consistently receiving over 25% of the state budget. This investment has supported the renovation of more than 500 schools, recruitment and training of teachers, and the integration of technology in classrooms. Efforts to reduce the number of out-of-school children and expand vocational training programmes have further strengthened human capital development.
In agriculture, Kaduna has intensified efforts to enhance food security and rural livelihoods. With allocations exceeding ₦74 billion—about 14% of the state budget—the sector has benefited from improved inputs, mechanisation, and support under the Tallafin Noma programme. These interventions have contributed to increased agricultural output and the development of agro-processing capacity through initiatives such as the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone.
Social inclusion has remained central to the administration’s agenda. Women and youth empowerment programmes, alongside skills development initiatives, have expanded participation in governance and improved economic opportunities for vulnerable groups.
Overall, Kaduna’s strong performance in the 2025 pSPI reflects a broader transformation driven by reforms in governance, security, and economic management. The recognition highlights a state that has moved from a period of instability toward one increasingly defined by resilience, inclusivity, and sustainable development.
As Kaduna continues its reform journey, the achievements recorded underscore the importance of collaboration among government institutions, traditional authorities, civil society, and development partners. Together, they are building a more stable and prosperous state grounded in accountability and shared progress.
Governor Uba Sani’s leadership continues to present a model of governance anchored on inclusion, fiscal discipline, and long-term development planning. The progress achieved so far not only strengthens Kaduna’s position among Nigeria’s leading states but also offers a reference point for transformative governance across the country.