Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has explained that the state government’s decision to reduce tuition fees in its tertiary institutions by up to 50 per cent was aimed at removing financial obstacles that have historically blocked access to higher education for students from low-income families.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Kaduna State Students Union at Kaduna State University, Sani—represented by his Principal Private Secretary, Bello Ayuba—said the tuition cut has opened the doors of opportunity for more young people to pursue university education.

“This decision was not just about lowering costs—it was about opening the gates of higher learning to the sons and daughters of ordinary Nigerians,” he said.

The fee reduction, which came into effect in 2023, applied to all state-owned tertiary institutions and ranged between 30 to 50 per cent, following widespread complaints over rising costs of education and living.

The governor, who was honoured with a “Sword of Honour” by the student union, pledged continued support for students and emphasized the importance of unity and peace on campuses. He warned against the influence of divisive forces seeking to derail students’ focus and development.

“No meaningful development can be achieved in a state of chaos, disunity and mutual mistrust,” he said.

Sani highlighted his administration’s broader achievements, including enhanced security, reopening of markets in previously troubled areas, and infrastructure development such as road construction and hospital remodelling.

He also pointed to education-focused interventions, like establishing new faculties at KASU and securing Central Bank support for the engineering faculty.

Additionally, the governor’s directive allowing students to sit for exams despite owing fees was praised as a compassionate move reflecting his administration’s commitment to inclusive and people-centred governance.