Manifesto

Manifesto for a Thriving Southern Kaduna

By Engr. Joseph Ciroma
Senatorial Candidate, Southern Kaduna

Introduction: A Vision for Change

Southern Kaduna is a land rich in culture, resources, and untapped potential. Yet, for too long, our people have endured neglect, insecurity, and missed opportunities for growth. I, Engineer Joseph Ciroma, step forward to contest for the Senate with a solemn promise — to be a tireless advocate for the people, a bridge between the grassroots and the corridors of power, and a catalyst for lasting development.

My life’s journey, from humble beginnings in Tande, Jema’a Local Government Area, to becoming a successful engineer and community leader, has shown me the struggles and resilience of our people. I have witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by farmers in our rural areas, the dreams of our youth stifled by unemployment, and the anguish of communities torn apart by violence.

I believe that with visionary leadership, strategic policies, and unwavering determination, we can change the narrative of Southern Kaduna. This manifesto outlines my commitment to building a safer, stronger, and more prosperous region — one where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive.

1. Youth Empowerment, Education & Innovation

The youth of Southern Kaduna are its greatest asset, yet many face barriers to education, employment, and personal growth. I am committed to unlocking their potential through comprehensive programs that foster education, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Key Actions:

• Education for All: Advocate for increased federal education funding, construction of new schools in underserved areas, and the provision of learning materials to bridge the educational gap.
• Scholarship & Bursary Programs: Launch merit-based scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid for students from low-income families to ensure that no young person is left behind.
• Technical & Vocational Training: Establish vocational centers where youths can learn hands-on skills in fields like solar technology, agritech, software development, and more.
• Entrepreneurship Support: Create start-up incubators, provide access to micro-loans, and organize business development workshops to support young innovators and small business owners.
• Youth Leadership & Civic Engagement: Foster youth participation in governance by setting up youth councils and leadership academies to groom future leaders of Southern Kaduna.

By investing in our youth, we are not only building individuals but fortifying the future of our entire region.

2. Infrastructure, Connectivity & Regional Development

For Southern Kaduna to grow, we need infrastructure that supports commerce, connectivity, and community well-being. My administration will prioritize the development of critical infrastructure to open up our region for investment and progress.

Key Actions:

• Road Rehabilitation & Construction: Lobby for federal projects to repair and expand key roads connecting local government areas, easing transport for goods and people.
• Electrification & Renewable Energy: Partner with energy agencies to bring solar and hydroelectric projects to off-grid communities, powering homes, schools, and businesses.
• Water & Sanitation Programs: Push for borehole installations, water treatment plants, and sanitation facilities to ensure access to clean water and prevent disease outbreaks.
• Digital Access & ICT Hubs: Promote policies that expand broadband internet access and establish tech hubs where youth can learn, work, and build digital enterprises.
• Housing & Urban Renewal: Advocate for affordable housing programs, modern markets, and public spaces that enhance the quality of life in both urban and rural areas.

Infrastructure is the backbone of development, and through strategic investments, we can lay the groundwork for a thriving economy.

3. Security, Peacebuilding & Community Resilience

No society can truly progress without security. Southern Kaduna has endured years of communal clashes, banditry, and violent attacks. I will prioritize security as a cornerstone of my legislative work, pushing for sustainable solutions to protect our people and promote lasting peace.

Key Actions:

• Community Policing & Local Vigilante Support: Push for the recruitment and proper training of local security forces, equipping them to complement federal security agencies.
• Early Warning Systems & Intelligence Networks: Advocate for technology-driven solutions like surveillance systems, communication networks, and data analysis tools to prevent attacks before they happen.
• Peace & Reconciliation Initiatives: Facilitate inter-community dialogues, cultural exchange programs, and conflict resolution workshops to foster unity and heal divisions.
• Victim Support & Trauma Care: Establish victim support centers offering counseling, medical care, and reintegration programs for displaced persons and survivors of violence.
• Legislative Advocacy for Security Funding: Work relentlessly to ensure that Southern Kaduna receives adequate federal security funding, including the deployment of more personnel to hotspots.

Our people deserve to live, work, and dream without fear. I am committed to making that a reality.

4. Agricultural Transformation & Economic Empowerment

Agriculture sustains the vast majority of families in Southern Kaduna, yet farmers face numerous challenges, from outdated practices to lack of access to markets. I will champion agricultural policies that empower farmers, boost production, and turn our region into an agricultural powerhouse.

Key Actions:

• Modernized Farming Techniques: Facilitate agricultural extension services to train farmers on climate-smart practices, mechanization, and sustainable land use.
• Farmers’ Cooperatives & Unions: Support the formation of cooperatives to give farmers collective bargaining power, access to bulk purchases, and stronger market leverage.
• Storage & Processing Facilities: Advocate for the construction of silos, cold storage units, and agro-processing plants to reduce post-harvest losses and increase product value.
• Access to Credit & Subsidies: Push for low-interest loans, federal grants, and seed/fertilizer subsidies to ease the financial burden on smallholder farmers.
• Market Access & Export Opportunities: Work on policies that improve transport infrastructure and facilitate connections to regional, national, and international markets.

By transforming agriculture, we can lift thousands out of poverty and create wealth that sustains generations.

My Promise to Southern Kaduna

This manifesto is not just a collection of promises — it is a contract with the people of Southern Kaduna. I pledge to be accessible, accountable, and unwavering in my commitment to deliver the change our region so desperately needs.

I am not running for Senate for personal gain or political power; I am running because I believe Southern Kaduna deserves better. I believe in a future where our youth flourish, our communities prosper, and our people live in peace and dignity.

Together, we can build that future. But I cannot do it alone. I need your support, your prayers, and your vote. Let us rise as one, and turn the hope of a better Southern Kaduna into reality.

With unwavering determination,
Engr. Joseph Ciroma
Senatorial Candidate, Southern Kaduna