Sani seeks strengthening of democracy, poverty alleviation, food security initiatives

Sani  seeks strengthening of democracy, poverty alleviation, food security initiatives

Democracy

By Hussaina Yakubu

Kaduna, June 12, 2024 (NAN)  Gov. Uba Sani of Kaduna State has called for the strengthening of democracy through initiatives focused on poverty alleviation and food security.

In his Democracy Day message, Sani paid tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for the entrenchment of democracy in Nigeria.

He honoured notable figures such as the late MKO Abiola, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, Chima Ubani, and other pro-democracy, human rights, and labour activists who gallantly fought against military rule.

“The Nigerian people deserve accolades for embracing democracy and defending it with their blood and sweat.

”In spite of some imperfections, democracy remains the best system of government,” he said.

Sani emphasized that democracy must be nurtured to thrive and endure, urging political actors to shun anti-democratic tendencies and commit to promoting democratic culture and citizenship.

He underscored the need for Nigeria to strengthen institutions that promote and protect democracy.

 The governor also stressed that democracy would only be meaningful if issues of poverty, unemployment, and food security were addressed.

Sani stated that since the inception of his administration in May 2023, his government has been ‘pro-people and development-centered.’

 He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the poor, vulnerable, and the under-served in the state.

“We are revitalizing education to ensure accessible, affordable, and quality education for children of the underprivileged in Kaduna State,” he said.

 Additionally, Sani listed efforts made to boost agriculture like providing agricultural inputs and equipment to smallholder farmers and small-scale agro-processors.

He also said they included stimulating the economy by supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises and implementing a Rural Transformation Drive.

According to him, all these efforts were aimed at revitalizing the rural economies, fighting poverty and bridging the rural-urban divide.

Sani added, “Our administration is bringing development closer to the people. In all we do, we consult with the people, get their inputs, and incorporate them into our policies, programmes, and projects.

“As we celebrate June 12, our Democracy Day, let us remember that sovereignty belongs to the people.”

He also said the people must be at the centre of all  political calculations and development efforts.

Sani said, ”If we push the people to the background, we imperil our democracy.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 HUM/BRM

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Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani