Shettima unveils Kaduna banquet hall, lauds Sani’s vision

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Tuesday inaugurated a state-of-the-art banquet hall constructed by the Kaduna State Government, describing the project as a reflection of purposeful leadership and institutional strengthening.

The Vice President, who spoke at the ceremony in Kaduna, said the Federal Government would continue to support the state, citing its strategic importance in Nigeria’s political and socio-economic framework.

According to him, Kaduna occupies a critical position in the nation’s development, hence the sustained federal presence through projects and policy interventions.

“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 added that the federal government would always stand by the state, stressing that “the heartbeat of Nigeria cannot be ignored without the whole body feeling the impact.”

Shettima commended Governor Uba Sani for blending infrastructure development with efforts to strengthen governance institutions, describing the approach as key to sustainable growth.

He noted that beyond physical infrastructure, effective governance requires building systems that ensure efficiency, accountability and improved service delivery.

The vice president said the newly inaugurated facility would enhance high-level engagements, policy dialogues and ceremonial functions, while addressing infrastructural gaps that often limit governance activities.

He expressed optimism that the hall would position Kaduna as a hub for regional and international events, including conferences, exhibitions and cultural engagements capable of boosting economic activities.

According to him, the project also reflects a leadership philosophy that prioritises dignity in public service, protection of vulnerable groups and restoration of public trust in governance.

In his remarks, Sani said the banquet hall was conceived as a strategic investment in institutional capacity and public engagement, rather than just a physical structure.

He disclosed that the facility, which sits on 2.7 hectares with a built-up area of about 5,000 square metres, can accommodate 1,000 guests in a banquet setting and 1,300 in theatre configuration.

Sani explained that the hall was designed to host diplomatic engagements, international conferences, exhibitions and policy dialogues aimed at fostering partnerships and driving development.

He added that the project aligns with his administration’s vision of positioning Kaduna as a centre for investment, culture and global engagement.

The governor further noted that the facility was named after a former military administrator in recognition 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 significant achievement completed within record time.

Makarfi also urged the state government to immortalise other past leaders, including Abdulkadir Balarabe Musa, for their contributions to the state’s development.

Also speaking, former Vice President Namadi Sambo lauded the governor for executing what he described as a magnificent project, noting that it represents a strategic investment in governance and modernisation of Kaduna State.

Kaduna has in recent years emerged as a focal point of federal attention, given its recurring security challenges, including banditry in its rural areas, farmer-herder conflicts and kidnapping incidents along major highways, as well as its economic potential as an industrial and agricultural hub.