Vice President Kashim Shettima on Tuesday commissioned a modern banquet hall built by the Kaduna State Government, describing the project as a sign of effective leadership and efforts to strengthen institutions.
Speaking at the inauguration in Kaduna, the Vice President said the Federal Government would continue to back the state, noting its strategic role in Nigeria’s political and socio-economic landscape.
He explained that Kaduna holds a vital place in the country’s development, which is why the federal government has maintained a strong presence through various projects and policy initiatives.
“We have returned to Kaduna time and again in recent months bearing projects, policies and promises renewed by action, because we understand the place this great state occupies in the anatomy of our nation,” Shettima said.
He further assured that the federal government would always support the state, adding that “the heartbeat of Nigeria cannot be ignored without the whole body feeling the impact.”
Shettima praised Governor Uba Sani for combining infrastructure development with institutional reforms, describing the approach as essential for sustainable progress.
He emphasised that beyond physical projects, good governance involves building systems that promote efficiency, accountability, and better service delivery.
The Vice President noted that the newly commissioned facility would support high-level meetings, policy discussions, and ceremonial events, while addressing infrastructure gaps that often hinder governance activities.
He added that the hall is expected to position Kaduna as a centre for regional and international events such as conferences, exhibitions, and cultural programmes, which could stimulate economic growth.
According to him, the project also reflects a leadership approach that values dignity in public service, protects vulnerable groups, and rebuilds public trust in governance.
In his remarks, Governor Sani said the banquet hall was conceived as a strategic investment in strengthening institutions and enhancing public engagement, rather than merely a physical structure.
He revealed that the facility, situated on 2.7 hectares with a built-up area of about 5,000 square metres, can host 1,000 guests in a banquet arrangement and 1,300 in a theatre-style setting.
Sani explained that the hall is designed to accommodate diplomatic meetings, international conferences, exhibitions, and policy engagements aimed at promoting partnerships and development.
He added that the project aligns with his administration’s goal of positioning Kaduna as a hub for investment, culture, and global interaction.
The governor also noted that the facility was named after a former military administrator in honour of disciplined and value-driven leadership, while reaffirming his commitment to inclusive development.
Former Kaduna State Governor, Ahmed Makarfi, commended the project, describing it as a major achievement completed within a short period.
Makarfi also urged the state government to honour other past leaders, including Abdulkadir Balarabe Musa, for their contributions to the state.
Similarly, former Vice President Namadi Sambo praised the governor for delivering what he described as an impressive project, noting that it represents a strategic step toward improving governance and modernising Kaduna State.
In recent years, Kaduna has attracted significant federal attention due to its security challenges, including banditry in rural communities, farmer-herder clashes, and kidnappings along major highways, as well as its economic potential as an industrial and agricultural centre.
