Kano: President Bola Tinubu has underscored Kano State’s pivotal place in Nigeria’s political and economic future, describing the state as indispensable to national development.
Tinubu spoke at a grand reception for Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf in Kano on Monday, marking the governor’s formal entry into the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu described the occasion as a defining moment in Kano State’s evolving political landscape.
“Kano State is too significant to be sidelined. It is a cornerstone of our nation’s growth, and we cannot afford to see it left behind,” he said.
He hailed Yusuf’s decision to join the All Progressives Congress, saying it strengthened the state’s alignment with national development priorities.
“We are proud to welcome you into the APC. Together, we will work toward a more inclusive and prosperous Nigeria.
“The President has made it clear that your role within this party is crucial. You are joining us to offer unwavering support for our shared goals,” he said.
Governor Yusuf thanked the president and party leaders for the reception, pledging that his defection would not derail his commitment to fairness and justice.
“While our decision to align with the APC will not compromise my aspirations for a just society, it will attract opportunities and deliver benefits for Kano State,” he said.
He commended Tinubu for approving N5 billion in federal support, alongside N3 billion from the APC Governors’ Forum.
“This assistance will address the aftermath of the recent fire disaster. The collective N8 billion symbolises the strong bond between Kano State and the Federal Government,” Yusuf said.
The APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, said Kano State would gain fresh impetus for development through the partnership.
“This alignment will provide Governor Yusuf with the progressive mindset to further drive development in Kano State,” Yilwatda stated.
Governor Hope Uzodinma, Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, described Yusuf’s return as a homecoming.
“He is back home after a brief time away, returning to his original political home,” Uzodinma said.
He expressed confidence that Kano State’s alignment would bolster political stability and strengthen the party ahead of 2027.
“Kano State is the brain of Nigerian politics. When Kano gets it right, Nigeria gets it right,” he added.
Former APC National Chairman, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, said the party in Kano State was now stronger and more united.
“We are no longer a scattered group. We are now a united body under the APC,” Ganduje said.
It can be recalled that the Governor officially defected to the APC on Jan. 26.
