Kaduna State has been ranked among Nigeria’s top-performing states in the 2025 Governance Accountability and Transparency Index (GATI), a development widely seen as a strong endorsement of the State Governor, Senator Uba Sani’s reform-driven leadership and commitment to open governance.
The report, released by the Guild of Online Media Editors and Publishers (GOMEP) Nigeria, places Kaduna in the elite Category A – Exceptional Performance band, alongside nine other states—Abia, Borno, Ekiti, Anambra, Osun, Delta, Kano, Enugu, and Kogi.
Kaduna’s Rise to the Top
Kaduna’s inclusion among the top-performing states marks a significant leap from its 2024 position. In the inaugural GATI report, the state ranked in Category B (Strong Performance) with a score of 81.7. However, in the 2025 assessment, Kaduna surged to Category A with an impressive 89.3 points.
This 7.6-point increase—representing a 9.30% improvement—reflects what analysts describe as “clear, measurable progress” in governance transparency, accountability systems, and citizen-focused policies.
Uba Sani’s Governance Reforms Driving Change
Since assuming office, Uba Sani has prioritized transparency, inclusive governance, and institutional accountability as the cornerstone of his administration.
Key reforms credited for Kaduna’s improved ranking include:
Open Financial Practices: The administration has strengthened fiscal transparency by ensuring timely publication of budgetary information and improved public access to government spending data.
Citizen-Centered Governance: Through regular stakeholder engagements, town hall meetings, and inclusive policy consultations, citizens have been given a stronger voice in governance.
Digital Governance Expansion: The introduction of digital platforms for service delivery and public information access has significantly reduced bureaucratic bottlenecks and improved efficiency.
Accountability Mechanisms: Enhanced oversight structures and stricter procurement transparency have helped build public trust in government processes.
Beyond transparency, the administration has also pursued aggressive development initiatives across key sectors such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, and rural development—further reinforcing the perception of a government focused on both accountability and tangible progress.
Why Kaduna Stands Out
Governance experts point to a combination of leadership commitment and policy consistency as the key factors behind Kaduna’s strong performance.
Unlike many states where reforms have been inconsistent, Kaduna’s governance approach under His Excellency, Senator Uba Sani has been marked by sustained policy implementation, institutional strengthening , and a deliberate focus on public trust and inclusiveness. These efforts align closely with the GATI evaluation criteria, which emphasise transparency, responsiveness, anti-corruption measures, and citizen engagement.
Public Confidence on the Rise
The improved ranking has also been mirrored by growing public approval within the state. Residents and stakeholders increasingly credit the administration for fostering a more open and responsive government, as well as delivering visible development outcomes.
For many observers, Kaduna’s performance represents a model of how political will and reform-oriented leadership can rapidly transform governance outcomes within a short period.
A Benchmark for Other States
While Kaduna shares the top tier with other high-performing states, its upward trajectory from 2024 to 2025 stands out as a compelling success story.
The GATI report ultimately positions Kaduna State not just as a top performer, but as a benchmark for governance excellence in Nigeria—demonstrating that transparency, accountability, and development can go hand in hand under committed leadership.
As the state continues on this trajectory, expectations remain high that the administration of Governor Uba Sani will sustain—and potentially exceed—these gains in the years ahead.
