Gov. Yusuf Commissions Pensioners’ Corporate Headquarters in Abuja

……..Donates N100 Million, Reaffirms Commitment to Retirees’ Welfare….

As pensioners endorse Kano Governor for second term…..

Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has commissioned the Comrade Godwin Abumisi Pensioners’ Legacy House, the corporate headquarters of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), in Abuja, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to protecting the welfare and dignity of retired public servants.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Wednesday.

At the event, the President of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Comrade Godwin Abumisi, commended Governor Yusuf’s unwavering commitment to pension reforms, recalling that he was honoured as the Most Pensioners-Friendly Governor of the Year 2024 in recognition of his exceptional support for retirees.

Abumisi particularly praised the Kano State Government for settling ₦32 billion out of the ₦48.6 billion gratuity liabilities inherited by the present administration, describing the achievement as a major relief to thousands of pensioners and their families.

In his address, Governor Yusuf described the commissioning of the Legacy House as more than the unveiling of a building, saying it represents society’s appreciation for the sacrifices and years of dedicated service rendered by retired public servants.

The Governor noted that pension is not a privilege but a legitimate entitlement earned through years of faithful service, stressing that the true measure of any responsible government lies in how it treats those who have devoted their lives to public service.

He reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to clear the remaining pension backlog before the expiration of its tenure, while sustaining the prompt and regular payment of monthly pensions.

Governor Yusuf also recalled his administration’s decision to increase the minimum pension in Kano State from ₦5,000 to ₦20,000 to cushion the effects of the rising cost of living on elderly retirees.

He further highlighted Kano State’s support for the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, including hosting the Union’s National Delegates Conference, describing the recognition accorded to the state by the union as an encouragement to continue implementing people-centred policies.

The Governor congratulated the national leadership of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners on the successful completion of the Legacy House and expressed confidence that the facility would serve as a centre for unity, collaboration and sustainable support for pensioners across Nigeria.

Earlier, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress Comrade Joe Ajero commended the Governor for tenacity in supporting the Labour unions not only in Kano but across the country.

The leadership of the pensioners had unanimously endorsed Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for his second term bid in Kano due to his performance across all critical social sectors of the economy.

Gov. Yusuf Felicitates French Government on National Day, Seeks Stronger Kano-France Partnership

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has congratulated the Government and people of France on the occasion of the country’s National Day, reaffirming Kano State’s commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation with France in key development sectors.

This was contained in a statement issued by the governor’s spokesman, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Tuesday.

Governor Yusuf made the remarks during an interactive session held at the French Embassy in Abuja to commemorate the celebration. The governor led a delegation of senior government officials to the event.

He congratulated the French Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Marc Fonbaustier, on behalf of the Government and people of Kano State, wishing France continued peace, prosperity and progress.

Governor Yusuf commended the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and France, describing it as a partnership that has continued to promote development and mutual understanding.

He called for sustained collaboration between Kano State and the French Government in the areas of agriculture, renewable energy, water resources, environmental protection and education.

According to the governor, Kano remains committed to working with international partners to attract investments, improve public services and enhance the well-being of its citizens.

He expressed confidence that stronger cooperation with France would open new opportunities for innovation, technology transfer and sustainable development in Kano State.

Qadiriyya National Leader Pays Historic Solidarity Visit to Governor Yusuf in Abuja

The Spiritual Leader of the Qadiriyya Islamic Movement, Sheikh Qaribullah Sheikh Nasiru Kabara, on Tuesday paid a historic solidarity visit to the Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, in Abuja, marking the first official meeting between the two leaders.

This was contained in a statement issued by the governor’s spokesman, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Tuesday.

During the meeting, Sheikh Qaribullah congratulated Governor Yusuf on the achievements recorded by his administration and prayed Almighty Allah to grant him wisdom, sound health and continued success in delivering good governance to the people of Kano State.

The revered Islamic scholar commended the governor’s developmental strides and encouraged him to sustain the current momentum in the areas of infrastructure, education, healthcare and other critical sectors.

He also assured the governor of the continued prayers and support of the Qadiriyya faithful for peace, unity and progress in Kano State and Nigeria.

In his remarks, Governor Yusuf expressed appreciation to Sheikh Qaribullah for the visit, describing it as a reflection of the cordial relationship between the government and religious leaders.

The governor urged members of the Qadiriyya Movement and other Islamic groups to continue offering prayers for lasting peace, economic prosperity and national unity, stressing that spiritual support remains vital to the success of governments at all levels.

Governor Yusuf reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering people-centred policies and sustaining the pace of development across Kano State.

Gov. Yusuf Condoles JIBWIS, Commissioner for Women Affairs Over Passing of Engr. Yusuf Abdullahi

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has received with shock the death of Engr. Yusuf Abdullahi (Baba), a respected engineer, religious leader, and immediate younger brother of the Kano State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Children and the Disabled, Hon. Amina Abdullahi Sani.

The late Engr. Yusuf was also a close associate of the Kano based Islamic scholar, Professor Sheikh Abdullahi Saleh Pakistan, and a committed member State of Jama'atu Izalatil Bid'ah Wa'iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), where he was widely admired for his dedication to the propagation of Islam and community service.

In a condolence message issued by the governor's Spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa in Kano on Tuesday, Governor Yusuf said the deceased was a humble, God-fearing and compassionate individual whose contributions to engineering, religious activities and humanitarian causes earned him the respect of many across Kano State and beyond.

Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf noted that the death of Engr. Yusuf is a great loss not only to his immediate family but also to the entire JIBWIS family, the engineering profession and the people of Kano State.

He extended his heartfelt condolences to Hon. Amina Abdullahi, Professor Sheikh Abdullahi Saleh Pakistan, the leadership and members of JIBWIS, as well as the entire Abdullahi family, praying to Almighty Allah (SWT) to forgive the shortcomings of the deceased.

He also prayed fervently for Allah to admit him into Aljannatul Firdaus, and grant his family the strength and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

Gov. Yusuf Meets Kano APC Federal Appointees in Abuja, Reaffirms Support for Tinubu Ahead of 2027

…Plan Victory of APC at All Levels in Kano for 2027…

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf on Sunday hosted federal political appointees from Kano State and other leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the Government House Lodge, Asokoro, Abuja.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Governor’s Spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Monday.

The meeting, held under the Tinubu Renewed Hope Appointees Forum, Kano State Chapter, brought together key APC stakeholders to deliberate on the future of the party in Kano State ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The forum unanimously passed a vote of confidence on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in recognition of what it described as his commitment to the development of Kano State and the nation.

The stakeholders pledged to mobilise support for President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima to secure a resounding victory in Kano during the 2027 presidential election.

The meeting also congratulated Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and his deputy, Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo, on emerging as the APC governorship candidates for Kano State.

Members reaffirmed their commitment to the implementation of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and expressed full support for Governor Yusuf’s Kano First Agenda.

They resolved to work in unity to ensure the APC records victory in the presidential, governorship, National Assembly and State Assembly elections in Kano State.

The inaugural meeting was attended by former Kano State Governor and immediate past National Chairman of the APC, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the State APC Chairman, Hon. Umar Haruna Doguwa, ministers, presidential aides, heads of federal agencies, chairmen of parastatals, board members and other federal political appointees from Kano State.

The communiqué of the meeting was signed by Senator Basheer Lado, CON, Special Adviser to the President on National Assembly Matters (Senate) and Convener of the Tinubu Renewed Hope Appointees Forum, Kano State Chapter.

Gov. Yusuf Nominates Garo as Running Mate for 2027 Re-election Bid

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has officially announced the nomination of his deputy, His Excellency Murtala Sule Galadima Garo, as his running mate for the 2027 governorship election.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Governor’s spokesman, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Monday.

Governor Yusuf made the announcement during a strategic meeting with Federal Political Appointees of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu held at the Kano Governor’s Lodge in Abuja.

The Governor said the decision followed Garo’s outstanding loyalty, commitment, and unwavering passion for the development of Kano State since assuming office as Deputy Governor.

He expressed satisfaction with the working relationship between them, noting that Garo had demonstrated competence, dedication, and a strong sense of responsibility in the discharge of his duties.

“I have no regrets for choosing Garo as my Deputy in the last few months, and he has proven to be the right choice so far. I want to confirm to you that I have every confidence in him,” Governor Yusuf declared.

The Governor also passed a vote of confidence on the Deputy Governor, describing him as a dependable partner whose contributions have strengthened the administration’s drive to deliver meaningful development across Kano State.

Governor Yusuf urged party leaders, political appointees, and supporters to remain united and committed as the administration continues to consolidate on its achievements while preparing for the 2027 general elections.

Governor Yusuf Reaffirms Commitment to Sustaining Education Reforms as UK-Funded PLANE Programme Ends

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining the education reforms introduced under the United Kingdom-funded Partnership for Learning for All in Nigeria (PLANE) programme, describing education as the foundation for the state’s future development.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Governor’s spokesman, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Saturday.

The Governor’s position was conveyed by the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Ali Abubakar Haruna Makoda, who represented him at the PLANE Transition Workshop held in Kano on Thursday.

Governor Yusuf said his administration would consolidate the gains recorded under the five-year programme by strengthening education planning, improving teacher development, expanding access to quality learning materials, and ensuring that every child has access to quality education.

He commended the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), PLANE, Save the Children International and other consortium partners for their invaluable support in transforming Kano’s education sector.

The Governor noted that the programme had helped the state generate credible data on out-of-school children through a comprehensive household survey, enabling government to design targeted interventions aimed at reducing the number of children outside the school system.

He also acknowledged PLANE’s contribution to improving foundational literacy and numeracy through teacher capacity building and the provision of teaching and learning materials across schools in the state.

Governor Yusuf assured development partners that Kano State would institutionalise the reforms introduced under the programme and continue investing in policies and initiatives that improve learning outcomes for children.

He reiterated his administration’s readiness to strengthen collaboration with local and international partners to ensure that the achievements recorded under PLANE are sustained for the benefit of future generations.

During the workshop, the Commissioner for Education presented a Letter of Appreciation to the PLANE Programme, represented by the Education Manager of Save the Children International, Stephen Sawa, in recognition of its outstanding contributions to education development in Kano, particularly its support for the Accelerated Basic Education Programme (ABEP).

The event was attended by representatives of the British High Commission, UNICEF, development partners, civil society organisations, education stakeholders and senior government officials, who collectively endorsed key transition actions aimed at sustaining the reforms through stronger government ownership and institutional collaboration.

Gov. Yusuf Pays Homage to VP Shettima, Congratulates Him on Emergence as Tinubu’s Running Mate

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has paid a homage to the Vice President of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, following his emergence as the running mate to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the 2027 presidential election.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Governor’s spokesman, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Saturday.

During the visit on Friday night at Aguda House, Presidential Villa, Abuja, Governor Yusuf congratulated the Vice President and rejoiced with him over his nomination, describing it as a recognition of his commitment and service to the nation.

The Governor prayed to Allah to grant President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima wisdom, good health and success as they prepare for the 2027 general election.

Governor Yusuf was accompanied by the member representing Gwale Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Engr. Garba Diso; APC National Ex-Officio, Hon. Muhammad Jamu Yusuf; and the Kano State Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Sheikh Ahmad Tijjani Auwalu.

The Governor reaffirmed his support for efforts aimed at promoting unity, peace and sustainable development across Nigeria.

Gov. Yusuf Congratulates President Tinubu on Submission of INEC Nomination Form

…….Urges Nigerians to Support Second-Term Bid…..

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the successful submission of his nomination form to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Governor’s spokesman, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Friday.

Governor Yusuf called on Nigerians across political, ethnic and religious divides to support President Tinubu’s bid for a second term in office to sustain the current momentum of development, economic reforms and national progress being witnessed across the country.

The Governor made the call shortly after the submission of the President’s INEC nomination form to the National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the Ladi Kwali Hall of the Abuja Continental Hotel.

President Tinubu was represented at the event by his Special Adviser on Political Matters, Hon. Ibrahim Kabir Masari, who formally presented the nomination form on behalf of the President.

Governor Yusuf described the submission of the nomination form as another significant milestone in Nigeria’s democratic journey, expressing confidence that the President’s renewed mandate would consolidate ongoing reforms and accelerate the country’s development.

He also commended Vice President Kashim Shettima and the leadership of the APC for their commitment to strengthening the party and ensuring a peaceful, transparent and credible electoral process.

The Governor reaffirmed Kano State’s commitment to supporting policies and programmes that promote national unity, economic prosperity and inclusive development for the benefit of all Nigerians.

From Corruption to Cannabis: As Governor Yusuf Puts Muhiyi, Anti-Graft Czar, in Charge of Kano Drug Crackdown - Abba Anwar

Praised by the activities of the former Executive Chairman of Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission, Barrister Muhiyi Magaji Rimingado, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf appointed him to lead a high powered Anti-Drug Task Force to dismantle drugs network in the state. Special Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. 

From the nature of the appointment and how it was announced, it is evidently clear that the governor is extremely worried about the position of the state in the drug abuse rating. 

As Kano tops the list in North West and second to Lagos across the nation. In the zone Kano is rated at 16.0% prevalence with 1,070,000 users. While Zamfara state is rated 13.5%, with 312,000 users. Kebbi state 12.6%, with 286,000 users. As Katsina state has 12.0%, with 481,000 users. For Kaduna state it is 10.0%, with 462,000 users. As Sokoto state records 9.0%, with 230,000 users. And Jigawa state is rated 7.0%, with 211,000 users. 

The Kano's 16% prevalence, with 1,070,000 users is dated back to 2018 when the Executive Chairman of National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Gen Muhammad Buba Marwa (rtd), quoted from the 2018 UNODC National Drug Use Survey. 

Governor Yusuf is disturbed with the result of Operation Sharar Mafaka, by NDLEA Kano Strategic Command, where 52 suspects were captured in 2 days, April 2026. Also also from 2020-202, 8,983.5kg were seized, 286 arrested and 78 convicted. As verified by NDLEA Kano Commander Isah Likita Muhammed, as reported by Voice of Nigeria. It is equally disturbing to know that in 2025 Kano made 1,389 arrests with 7,773.06kg that were seized and 94 rehabilitated. 

Governor Yusuf knows clearly the

key trends and what data reveals. For example South-West and North-West are hotspots when it comes to drug abuse, business and distribution network. Lagos with 33%, Oyo with 24% and Kano with 16%. As highest state rates on record, the South-West overall is at 22.4%.

Worried by these disturbing scenarios, Kano Governor vows to fight the syndicate, network, usage and other related criminalities attached to drug abuse. 

Not only the political will, he shops for a very strongly minded, virile, no-nonsense, committed to the core and fearless citizen to crush the network and other related activities. Hence the appointment of Barrister Rimingado, a known and a fearless anti-graft Czar. 

The name of Rimingado alone sends shivers to many shameless people who benefit from the network of drug abuse and marketing. Yes, the Governor did his best in the past, it is more glaring now that people believe he is all out to crush the menace. 

Barrister Rimingado's uncompromising posture and his patriotic commitment to serve his people in cleansing the system, make his appointment to be seen as one of the best appointments in the life of this administration in Kano. 

It is without any doubt to believe that, the newly appointed Chairman of the Task Force, has toiled hard to build his reputation. The way I know and understand him, I'm rest assured that he will not dent the image and reputation. He will definitely work hard to further consolidate his hard earned reputation. No two ways about it. 

In a press release issued by the Governor's spokesman Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa recently, it is clear that, the Task Force is an all-encompassing effort aimed at fiercely fighting drug abuse and businesses. Part of the release says, "The state government established the task force to provide a coordinated multi-agency framework aimed at disrupting illicit drug networks, accelerating prosecution of offenders and reducing drug demand through sustained advocacy and public enlightenment campaigns."

The Task Force's terms of reference gives a good picture of what will be the talk of the town, as soon as they start implementation. I find this part interesting, as part of the terms of reference, that, "Under its terms of reference, the task force is expected to strengthen intelligence gathering and information sharing among security agencies, identify and dismantle drug trafficking networks, establish secure communication channels for intelligence operations, and encourage community participation through confidential reporting mechanisms."

When I read, from the release that, "... the task force will develop mechanisms to ensure speedy prosecution of suspects through improved evidence gathering, standardized forensic procedures and collaboration with the judiciary for the establishment of fast-track courts to handle drug-related cases," I laughed in joy and said, Barrister Tsayayye is bouncing back again! 

Without any fear of mincing words, I can assure all that, when Rimingado strikes positive outcomes will be the product. It is not an overstatement when I say, as we are inching towards 2027 general election, the visibility and enhanced capacity of this Task Force will, for sure, add good substance to the struggle for votes for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano. The issue of drug abuse and business, has for long been a clog in Kano’s wheel. 

Truly, Governor Yusuf’s political will in appointing Barrister Muhiyi Rimingado is a landmark of this administration. Should this fight succeed, In Sha Allah, the APC will keep its place as the darling of Kano people — beyond party lines. 

Rimingado alone cannot make it to the promised edge. Hence good team is a prerequisite for good result and stronger effort. The Governor therefore makes an interesting and good choice in the membership of the Task Force. When they work hand in hand, in synergy, with Barrister Rimingado, history will always remember them. 

Your Excellency Sir, Pharm Ahmad Gana, a renowned fighter against drug abuse in Kano and the North, can make a good member of this all-important Task Force. He headed similar Task Force in the past. His records are there. I'm pretty sure Barrister Rimingado will enjoy working with him. As a member of the Task Force or as an Adviser. He is an asset when it comes to fight against drug abuse. 

I enjoy this part of the terms of reference, which says, "The committee is also mandated to identify major drug distribution points across the state, facilitate targeted raids and arrests, and recommend measures for the seizure of assets linked to drug trafficking activities." 

I rest my case. 

Anwar writes from Kano 

Saturday, 27th June, 2026