As Kano State marks the second anniversary of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration on May 29, 2025, it is with great pride and satisfaction that we reflect on a tenure characterised by unprecedented transformation, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of Kano’s people. In just two years, Governor Yusuf has not only fulfilled his campaign promises but has exceeded expectations, setting new standards for governance in Nigeria’s most populous state.
A Revolutionary Approach to Education
Perhaps no sector has witnessed more dramatic transformation than education under Governor Yusuf’s leadership. Recognising education as the foundation of societal progress, the governor declared a state of emergency in the sector and backed this declaration with concrete action. His administration’s allocation of 31% of the state’s annual budget to education, surpassing even UNESCO‘s recommendations, demonstrates an unparalleled commitment to human capital development.
The implementation of free education from primary to secondary levels has removed financial barriers that previously denied thousands of children access to quality learning. This bold policy has been complemented by a massive teacher recruitment effort, with over 6,000 new educators deployed across the state. Additionally, 2,000 volunteers under the federal BESDA program have been converted to permanent, pensionable staff, addressing the critical teacher-student ratio while ensuring job security for educators.
The physical transformation of schools has been equally impressive. Comprehensive infrastructural upgrades, including new classroom blocks, renovations, and the provision of essential learning materials such as benches, chairs, textbooks, uniforms, and computers, have created conducive learning environments that inspire both students and teachers.
Championing Girls’ Education and Gender Equality
Governor Yusuf’s commitment to inclusive education is exemplified by his special focus on girls’ education. The reopening of previously closed all-girls boarding schools and the provision of dedicated transportation buses for female students have resulted in increased enrollment and significantly reduced dropout rates among girls. This initiative not only promotes gender equality but also recognises the critical role educated women play in societal development.
Global Excellence Through International Scholarships
The resumption of the foreign scholarship scheme represents a strategic investment in Kano’s future. By sponsoring 1,001 postgraduate students abroad in specialised fields, the administration has created a pipeline of highly skilled professionals who will drive development not only in Kano but across the northern region. The outstanding performance of the first batch of returnees validates this investment and demonstrates the quality of Kano’s human resources when given appropriate opportunities.
Recognition and Validation
The numerous accolades received by Governor Yusuf, including Leadership Newspaper’s “Governor of the Year 2024” award and the NUT Golden Award, are testaments to his exceptional performance. These recognitions from respected institutions validate the transformative impact of his policies and their positive reception both within and outside Kano State.
Human Capital Development and Economic Empowerment
Beyond education, Governor Yusuf has implemented comprehensive human capital development programs focusing on skills acquisition, youth and women empowerment, and high-level manpower advancement. Monthly empowerment initiatives have provided platforms for entrepreneurship development, creating pathways to economic independence and reducing unemployment among the state’s most vulnerable populations.
Celebrating Excellence and Building Pride
The institution of annual ceremonies to honour distinguished Kano indigenes who have excelled nationally and internationally represents a masterstroke in leadership psychology. By celebrating achievements in the military, academia, engineering, and public service, the governor has fostered a culture of excellence while building state pride and providing mentorship opportunities for younger generations.
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Transparency and Accountability in Governance
In an era where public trust in leadership is often questioned, Governor Yusuf has maintained exemplary standards of transparency and accountability. His open approach to addressing allegations and his commitment to judicious management of state resources have fostered unprecedented trust between the government and the people.
The Case for Continuity: Why Re-Election is Essential
As we celebrate these remarkable achievements, it becomes clear that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf deserves re-election to consolidate and expand upon his transformative work. Several compelling reasons support this position:
Proven Track Record: In just two years, Governor Yusuf has demonstrated that he possesses the vision, competence, and political will necessary to drive meaningful change. His achievements in education alone justify continued confidence in his leadership.
Momentum for Development: The foundations laid in education, human capital development, and governance require sustained effort to reach their full potential. Re-electing Governor Yusuf ensures continuity of policies and prevents the disruption that often comes with change in leadership.
Long-term Vision: Many of the governor’s initiatives, particularly in education and human capital development, require time to mature and yield maximum benefits. The foreign scholarship recipients, improved educational infrastructure, and newly recruited teachers represent investments that will pay dividends over the long term.
Established Systems: The transparent and accountable governance systems established under Governor Yusuf’s leadership need time to become fully institutionalized. Continuity in leadership will ensure these positive changes become permanent features of Kano’s governance landscape.
Unfinished Business: While the achievements of the past two years are impressive, they represent just the beginning of Kano’s transformation journey. Issues such as healthcare improvement, infrastructure development, and economic diversification require sustained attention and the kind of focused leadership Governor Yusuf has demonstrated.
A Bright Future Beckons
The happiness and satisfaction of Kano State indigenes with Governor Yusuf’s performance are evident in the tangible improvements in their daily lives. From children attending better-equipped schools to women and youth accessing empowerment programs, from families no longer paying school fees to communities witnessing the return of their scholars with advanced degrees—the impact is visible and meaningful.
As we look toward the future, it is clear that Kano State stands at a pivotal moment. The choice before the people is not merely between candidates but between continuity and disruption, between proven performance and uncertain promises, between a leader who has delivered and those who are yet to be tested.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has earned the trust and confidence of Kano’s people through his remarkable achievements over the past two years. His re-election will not only consolidate these gains but will also provide the stability and continuity necessary to complete the transformation of Kano State into a model for good governance, educational excellence, and human capital development in Nigeria.
The journey of transformation that began two years ago must continue. The people of Kano State deserve nothing less than the consolidation and expansion of the remarkable progress achieved under Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s visionary leadership.
By His Excellency, Archbishop Designate Isaac Idahosa, Vice Presidential Candidate of New Nigeria People’s Party, 2023 General Elections
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
