Tinubu inaugurates vocational institute, CNG buses, specialist hospital in Kaduna

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday commissioned several transformative projects in Kaduna State, including the Institute of Vocational Training and Skills Development, 100 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses, and a 300-bed Specialist Hospital.

The vocational institute, established to equip young Nigerians with hands-on skills for self-reliance and employment, is a cornerstone of the Tinubu administration’s drive for youth empowerment and economic development.

It aligns closely with the vision of Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani to foster human capital development and inclusive economic growth.

At a ceremony held at Murtala Mohammed Square, President Tinubu also unveiled 100 CNG-powered buses, a significant step in modernising the state’s public transportation system and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

These initiatives are part of a broader collaboration between the Federal and Kaduna State Governments, aimed at enhancing infrastructure, healthcare, job creation, and overall economic progress.

Former Vice President Namadi Sambo, who was present at the event, hailed the inauguration of the 300-bed Specialist Hospital—named after President Tinubu—as the fulfilment of a vision conceived in 2009 during his tenure as governor.

“We celebrate the realisation of a project envisioned over 16 years ago. It is a dream come true for the people of Kaduna,” Sambo said.

He recalled that during his administration, Kaduna had fewer than 3,000 hospital beds for a population of over six million, a situation worsened by the relocation of the Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital from Kaduna metropolis to Shika, Zaria.

“Many families had to travel outside the state for specialist care. Our goal was to reverse health tourism by providing world-class healthcare locally,” he added.

Kaduna State Deputy Governor, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, praised President Tinubu for his “focused leadership,” which she said is rebuilding public trust in governance and laying the groundwork for national development.

She noted that the vocational training institute represents a vital component of the president’s commitment to job creation, economic empowerment, and improved living standards for Nigerians. Dr. Balarabe also commended Governor Sani for his inclusive, people-focused approach to governance.

Prof. Idris Bugaje, Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), described Kaduna as a rising centre for skills development.

He emphasized that vocational training is a key solution to tackling youth unemployment and achieving economic diversification.

“Empowering individuals with practical skills is a proven path to self-reliance and meaningful employment,” Bugaje said.

The Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli, also expressed appreciation for President Tinubu’s visit and support for Kaduna’s development. Speaking on behalf of the state’s traditional rulers, the Emir praised the projects as “impactful and unforgettable,” and highlighted the progress made in restoring peace to troubled areas such as Giwa, Igabi, and the southern zone of the state.

He assured the government of continued support from traditional institutions in promoting peace and development across Kaduna.

Other dignitaries at the high-profile event included Deputy Senate President Senator Barau Jibrin, Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, and other federal and state officials.

The projects collectively reflect a comprehensive effort to enhance healthcare, vocational education, public transport, and overall quality of life in Kaduna State.