Kaduna safer than perceived — NIPR

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has described insecurity in Kaduna State as exaggerated, while applauding the state government’s efforts to tackle security challenges and improve infrastructure.

Chairman of the Planning Committee for the 2026 Nigerian Public Relations Week, Yomi Badejo-Okusanya, made the remarks on Monday during a media tour of key government projects across the state.

He commended Governor Uba Sani for establishing a Command and Control Centre, describing it as a critical intelligence hub designed to strengthen security operations.

After inspecting the facility, Okusanya acknowledged that while Kaduna, like many states, faces security challenges, the situation is often overstated.

“Yes, there are challenges like in every other place, but efforts have been made to address them, and it is not as bad as people think,” he said.

He disclosed that the institute had faced pressure from some quarters to relocate the 2026 Nigerian Public Relations Week from Kaduna over safety concerns but noted that firsthand assessment presented a different reality.

Okusanya urged the state government to intensify efforts in communicating its security interventions to a wider audience and recommended the replication of the Command and Control Centre across all 23 local government areas.

The tour also covered several public facilities, including healthcare centres, schools, and transport infrastructure.

At the Badarawa Primary Healthcare Centre, the Commissioner for Health, Umma K Ahmad, revealed that all 255 primary healthcare centres in the state have been upgraded to Level 2.

She said the facilities now operate 24 hours, offering emergency, maternal, and neonatal care, with adequate medical supplies and a functional referral system supported by ambulances.

According to her, recent approval of CONMESS and CONHESS salary structures, along with improved hazard allowances, has enhanced the welfare of health workers in the state.

At the Institute of Vocational Training and Skills Development, the Provost, Hussaini Haruna Muhammad, said the institution operates across three campuses in Soba, Rigachukun, and Samaru Kataf, serving different senatorial zones.

He noted that the institute offers 14 trade programmes, including internationally recognised National Skills Qualification (NSQ) certifications, as well as short-term and specialised courses. He added that the Recognition of Prior Learning module enables experienced artisans to obtain formal certification.

The delegation also inspected a 35-kilometre road project spanning Igabi, Kajuru, and Chikun, linking over 70 farming communities.

Managing Director of the Kaduna Roads Agency, Baba Ahmed, said the road—stretching from Gadan Gayan through Gwaraji to Kujama Junction—has significantly improved transportation, boosted agricultural productivity, and enhanced economic activities in the benefiting communities.