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By Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano  As the Kano State House of Assembly prepares to screen Murtala Sule Garo for the position of Deputy Governor, attention has once again shifted to a political figure whose career has been shaped by grassroots engagement, administrative experience, and strategic relevance within Kano’s evolving power structure. Garo, a prominent name in Kano politics, is widely known for his role as former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, where he carved a niche as a bridge between government institutions and traditional authority. His emergence as a nominee under the administration of Abba Kabir Yusuf is being closely watched, not only for what it represents politically, but also for what it signals about the direction of governance in the state. Born and raised in Kano State, Garo’s early life was shaped by the socio-cultural realities of northern Nigeria, where tradition, religion, and community leadership play defining roles in everyday life. Growing up within this environment, he developed an appreciation for the delicate balance between modern governance and traditional institutions, an understanding that would later define much of his public service career. His upbringing, rooted in values of discipline, respect for elders, and civic responsibility, contributed to a political outlook that prioritises community engagement and inclusive leadership. Educated within Kano, Garo passed through the state’s primary and secondary school system before advancing to tertiary education, where he acquired the knowledge and training necessary for administrative and governance roles. While details of his academic institutions remain largely understated in the public domain, his professional trajectory reflects a solid grounding in public administration, policy coordination, and leadership. His education is widely regarded as instrumental in shaping his communication skills and his ability to navigate the complexities of governance in a politically vibrant state like Kano. Read Also: Kano Governor Nominates Murtala Garo as Deputy Governor KSP Partners JOSTUM to Offer PGD Courses in Management, Social Sciences Oluremi Tinubu’s Kano Visit Signals Support for Innovation, Youth Development – KASPA DG Garo’s political rise was neither abrupt nor accidental. It evolved through years of active participation in grassroots politics, where he built strong connections with ward leaders, community stakeholders, and party structures. His tenure as Chairman of Kabo Local Government Area marked a significant phase in his career, providing him with firsthand experience in local governance and public administration. It was during this period that he established a reputation for accessibility and responsiveness, qualities that resonated with constituents and strengthened his grassroots appeal. His subsequent appointment as Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs during the administration of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje elevated his profile and expanded his influence across Kano’s political landscape. In that capacity, he oversaw the coordination of local government activities while managing the often-sensitive relationship between the state government and traditional rulers. His responsibilities included strengthening traditional institutions, supervising local councils, promoting effective grassroots governance, and enhancing collaboration between state authorities and local structures. Report says that his tenure was characterised by consistent engagement with emirs, district heads, and local government officials, fostering improved communication and cooperation across governance levels. This experience not only deepened his institutional knowledge but also enabled him to build a network that cuts across political, cultural, and administrative divides, an asset that continues to define his relevance. Beyond his formal roles, Garo has remained an influential political actor, particularly within the All Progressives Congress (APC), where he is regarded as a loyal stakeholder and strategic mobiliser. His ability to maintain relevance despite shifting political alignments in Kano underscores a measured approach to politics, one that blends loyalty with adaptability. Known for his calm disposition and calculated decision-making, he is often described by observers as a politician who understands the pulse of local governance and the importance of sustained community engagement. His nomination as Deputy Governor is therefore being interpreted as more than a routine political appointment. For the administration of Abba Kabir Yusuf, it may represent a strategic effort to consolidate grassroots support, strengthen institutional linkages, and broaden political inclusivity in a state where power dynamics are both complex and deeply rooted. As the screening process by the Kano State House of Assembly unfolds, political observers are keenly watching how Garo’s experience, alliances, and leadership style will be assessed in relation to the demands of the office. His track record in local governance and his familiarity with traditional institutions are expected to feature prominently in considerations about his suitability for the role. Regardless of the eventual outcome, Garo’s journey offers insight into the workings of Kano’s political system, where grassroots connection, administrative competence, and strategic positioning often define the path to leadership. His re-emergence at this critical moment underscores a broader reality in the state’s politics: influence, once established, rarely fades; it simply repositions itself in anticipation of the next opportunity. As Kano watches and waits, the screening of Murtala Sule Garo may well mark the beginning of a new chapter, not only in his political career but in the evolving governance structure of the state.

Strong indications have emerged that Usman Bala Muhammad may be positioning himself for the Kano Central Senatorial seat ahead of the next electoral cycle, a move that could bring his decades-long administrative experience into the political arena. Observers note that his potential entry into the race is likely to reshape the contest, given his extensive background in the civil service and close working relationship with top government officials and political actors over the years. Many believe that if elected, Kano Central stands to benefit from his deep understanding of governance, policy implementation, and public sector management. Beyond his administrative roles, his contributions to the development of Kano State are widely acknowledged. Over the years, he played a significant role in facilitating the recruitment of numerous youths into the state civil service, many of whom have risen to middle-level positions. This effort not only strengthened the workforce but also translated into economic empowerment for families and improved social stability across the state. Usman Bala Muhammad, a former Head of Civil Service, has built a reputation for discipline, administrative competence, and strategic coordination. His experience cuts across critical sectors of governance, positioning him as one of the few figures with both institutional knowledge and practical exposure to leadership at the highest levels. Read Also: Mustapha Bala Dawaki and the Prospect of a 2027 Political Comeback Mu’azu Magaji Suggests Bichi, Rurum as Strong Deputy Governor Options for Kano Governor Yusuf Confirms Bilkisu Maimota as Kano Head of Service Before his appointment as Head of Service in April 2022 by Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, he served in several key capacities, including as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Ministry of Health, and the Office of the Deputy Governor. Notably, he also served as Principal Private Secretary to the governor, a role that placed him at the heart of executive decision-making. His tenure as Head of Service, which extended into the administration of Abba Kabir Yusuf, further reinforced his standing as a central figure in the state’s governance structure before his voluntary resignation in November 2023. Currently serving as Special Adviser on State Affairs, he continues to play a strategic role in government. In April 2026, he chaired a committee that submitted recommendations on a new wage structure for civil servants, underscoring his continued relevance in policy formulation. A member of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (mni), Usman Bala belongs to a select cadre of policymakers trained in strategic leadership and national development. As political activities gradually gather momentum, analysts say his blend of experience, composure, and long-standing service may position him as a formidable contender for the Kano Central Senatorial seat, should he formally declare his ambition.

Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano In the ever-evolving theatre of Kano politics, where alliances are constantly tested and recalibrated, the re-emergence of Murtala Sule Garo in strategic conversations is stirring fresh debate across the state’s political landscape. Though not currently occupying a frontline executive role, his enduring influence within grassroots structures and institutional networks continues to position him as a figure of consequence, whose name is now being quietly projected in some quarters as a possible Deputy Governor under the administration of Abba Kabir Yusuf. Garo’s political journey reflects a steady climb built not on sudden prominence but on sustained engagement at the grassroots level. His tenure as Chairman of Kabo Local Government Area marked a defining period in his public service career, where he cultivated a reputation for accessibility and responsiveness. In a political environment where many leaders struggle to maintain direct connection with their constituencies, Garo’s approach resonated strongly among rural communities, laying a foundation that continues to underpin his relevance. His subsequent appointment as Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs during the administration of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje further expanded his political reach and administrative experience. Operating at the delicate intersection of governance and traditional authority, he was tasked with overseeing local councils while maintaining cohesion with Kano’s deeply rooted traditional institutions. The role demanded tact and political intelligence, qualities that observers say enabled him to navigate complex relationships and consolidate a network that cuts across districts and political tendencies. In Kano’s political environment, relevance is rarely accidental; it is sustained through a careful balance of loyalty, visibility, and strategic restraint. Garo appears to have mastered this equilibrium. Despite shifts in political alignments and the often intense rivalry that defines the state’s politics, he has maintained a measured presence, avoiding unnecessary controversies while preserving his influence among key stakeholders. This has made him a figure that different interests may find acceptable, a valuable attribute in any consideration of executive partnership. Read Also: Kano Political Shift: Ganduje Hails Reps’ Defection to APC The growing speculation surrounding his possible elevation is not without strategic logic. For Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, any move to recalibrate the structure of governance would carry implications beyond administrative convenience. It would signal intent whether towards consolidating political support, broadening inclusivity, or stabilizing relationships across divides. In that context, Garo’s grassroots penetration, administrative background, and familiarity with both political and traditional institutions present a compelling profile. Yet, such a potential move would also attract scrutiny. Kano’s political space is layered with competing interests, and any decision of this magnitude would inevitably raise questions around alignment, loyalty, and the broader balance of power. It could reshape existing dynamics, revive dormant political networks, and alter calculations ahead of future contests, particularly in a state where political structures remain highly influential at both urban and rural levels. For now, the conversation remains speculative, but in Kano, speculation often serves as a precursor to reality. The recurring mention of Murtala Sule Garo in discussions of the deputy governorship reflects more than passing rumour; it underscores a sustained political presence built over time through grassroots connection and administrative experience. As the administration of Abba Kabir Yusuf continues to navigate the complexities of governance and political expectation, decisions around leadership structure will remain closely watched.

By Adamu Ahmad Khaleepa It’s not common in our society to see a woman aspiring for a political office, because of the deep-rooted societal attitudes which often relegate women to the home, viewing leadership as a male domain. Born in Brigade Tudun Wada Bus stop, area of Nassarawa Local Government, Kano state Nigeria, coming from a vast family background, she believes in inclusive and participatory leadership with a practical vision, measurable and people centered blueprint, designed not just to win an election, but to build a constituency that works for everyone. She understands the decline in general welfare and community progress as some of the draw back for the people of Nassarawa Local Government. Women in Nigerian politics face significant underrepresentation, with participation rates hovering around 6.7% in elective and appointive positions, far below the global average. Despite holding nearly half the population and notable strides in corporate leadership, women constitute only about 4% of the National Assembly. Looking at this challenges Hon. Samira Dilli holds on to her internal motive which drive her to aspire for a political office, working day and night to achieve a desired goal through passion and discipline. Read Also: Salihu Sagir Takai and the Politics of Succession in Kano As a woman at early fourtees, she believes in shared responsibility with young people, she believes that young people have the ability and capacity to decide what’s best for them, which is why Hon. Samira Dilli pledged to appoint aides from each of the eleven wards areas who will identify critical community needs, provide adequate and direct feedback to her, to ensure even distribution of development and promote accountability and fairness. Her leadership will not be based on empty speeches but on verifiable results anchored on three pillars, as described in her blueprint. Honorable Samira Dilli already conducted a basic need assessment withing the 11 wards of Nassarawa Local Government, to determine areas of urgent attention. The data compiled during the assessment, was analyzed and measures to be taken were written down as part of her planned activities in her 2027 campaign blueprint, these include construction of roads to boost trade, agriculture and the movement of goods and services, electricity as the backbone of business expansion, industrialization and digital advancement and provision of potable, affordable health care as the foundation of public health, agriculture, and productivity in community development. Hon. Samira Garba Dilli, is a Strategic professional with Bsc. International Relations and Diplomacy, MSc in peace studies and conflict resolution. She is a member Chartered Institute of Management & Leadership, member Association of Financial Analyst of Nigeria, Member Nigerian Institute of Management (Chartered) as well as professional public speaker from Institute of Public Speaking. Honorable Samira Garba Dilli is a seasoned politician, an ambitious advocate with a strong political foundation and a passion for public service. Experienced in local, state and national campaigns, committed to community improvement and utilizing research to drive progressive policy-making. She served as member Trade and Economic Committee, Presidential campaign council for Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu/Shettima Renewed Hope 2023 election campaign, where she contributed in shaping more dynamic economy, melding the best of the extant sectors with what is new on the economic horizon. As she truly represents competence, capacity, sincerity and compassion for the good people of Nasarawa constituency and Nigeria at large. As discussed with her, she explained that “besides all the experience, she has a clear focus of what she wants to bring to the table for people of Nassarawa constituency, in her own words ‘I Samira Dilli, have identified rising poverty and hardship, lack of economic opportunities, youth unemployment & underemployment, as some of the challenges facing Nassarawa Local Government constituency, and I’m ready to put feasible measures in place to mitigate such challenges’. With the support of Nassarawa Local Government constituents, we believe that Hon. Samira Garba Dilli will bring a sustainable solution to our social challenges. Adamu Ahmad Ibrahim, Executive Director, Arewa Health Promotion Initiative. 08089403454 ibrahimadamu5991@gmail.com