Politics

By Saminu Umar, Ph.D In the entire history of Kano State, few moments have carried the weight of symbolic and substantive significance that April 23, 2026 promises to deliver. On that day, Her Excellency Senator Oluremi Tinubu will stand in Nigeria’s most commercially historic city—not as a visitor passing through, but as the personal representative of a presidency that has made a deliberate and far-reaching commitment to Kano’s industrial future. For a state that hosts one of West Africa’s busiest commercial ecosystems—spanning leather, textiles, agriculture, and trade—the timing of this commitment could not be more critical. It is important to establish from the outset that Senator Tinubu is not a conventional First Lady. Unlike the largely ceremonial roles historically associated with the office, she brings a wealth of legislative experience, having served as Senator representing Lagos Central. Her background in governance, policy, and social development positions her as an active participant rather than a passive observer in national programmes. This distinction became evident when the Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, formally engaged her to champion the Energise Commercialisation Now (ECoN) initiative. Her acceptance was not symbolic—it was strategic. She is not merely attending the Kano event; she is leading it. To understand the significance of this visit, one must first understand Kano itself. Read Also: Kano’s Strategic Turn: Federal Partnership Begins to Yield Tangible Gains CITAD Distributes School Materials to Nomadic Pupils in Kano, Urges Increased Govt Intervention APC Stakeholders Back Engr. Bichi for Kano Deputy Governor Slot With a population exceeding 20 million, Kano remains Nigeria’s most populous state and a historic commercial hub. Kurmi Market, one of West Africa’s oldest trading centres, once served as a terminal for trans-Saharan trade routes. The ancient Kofar Mata Dye Pits continue to symbolize the city’s enduring leather industry, while its agricultural base stretches across 44 local government areas. Yet despite these advantages, Kano has long underperformed relative to its potential—largely due to political isolation from the federal centre. That trajectory is now changing. Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s decision to align with the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has repositioned Kano as a strategic partner in national development. The launch of the ECoN initiative in Kano is one of the clearest indicators of this shift. The programme, structured over three days, moves from policy engagement to innovation discovery and finally to investment mobilisation. For Kano, the implications are profound. Innovators from institutions such as Bayero University Kano and other academic and entrepreneurial hubs will gain unprecedented access to investors, development finance institutions, and global partners. For many, it represents their first real opportunity to transition ideas into scalable enterprises. Beyond innovation, the initiative holds promise for revitalising Kano’s industrial clusters, including Sharada, Bompai, and Challawa—areas long constrained by infrastructure and financing challenges. Crucially, Kano is not approaching this opportunity unprepared. The state’s ₦1.477 trillion 2026 budget—the largest in its history—allocates significant resources to education, infrastructure, and healthcare. Investments in security, agriculture, and climate initiatives further demonstrate a deliberate effort to build a conducive environment for economic growth. These are not abstract policies; they are measurable commitments that position Kano to fully leverage federal partnerships. The First Lady’s visit, therefore, is more than ceremonial. It is a signal—clear and unmistakable—that Kano is now firmly within Abuja’s development priorities. It also sends a broader message across Nigeria: that constructive engagement with the federal centre yields tangible dividends. For stakeholders across the North West and beyond, the lesson is evident—alignment, preparedness, and strategic governance are key to unlocking federal opportunities. History does not always announce itself loudly. Sometimes, it arrives quietly—through a three-day programme in a city long poised for resurgence. When Senator Oluremi Tinubu steps into Kano on April 23, she will not merely be launching an initiative. She will be opening a new chapter in the state’s industrial journey—one defined by renewed hope, strategic partnership, and the promise of shared prosperity.

By Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya When Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf made the bold decision to align Kano State with the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, reactions were swift and divided. Critics questioned the political implications, while others framed it as a departure from past loyalties. Yet, beneath the noise lay a central objective: prioritising the welfare and economic advancement of the people of Kano State. In less than a year, Kano has transitioned from a politically constrained position to one of strategic relevance within Nigeria’s federal structure. The state is now witnessing increased federal presence, investments, and institutional goodwill—developments that were previously limited under a less cooperative framework. A major indicator of this shift is the forthcoming launch of the Energise Commercialisation Now (ECoN) initiative, a federal programme spearheaded by the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology. Scheduled to hold in Kano from April 23 to 25, 2026, the choice of Kano as the host city underscores its renewed status as a commercial and industrial hub in Northern Nigeria. The initiative aims to identify viable innovations, connect them with investors, and scale them into productive enterprises capable of creating jobs and stimulating economic growth. For a state with a rich entrepreneurial culture and a large youth population, the programme presents significant opportunities for transformation. Read Also: Beyond Politics: How the Kano State Government is Turning Federal Partnership into Tangible Economic Gains for Ordinary Citizens APC Stakeholders Back Engr. Bichi for Kano Deputy Governor Slot APC Stakeholders Back Rurum for Kano Deputy Governor Slot The expected presence of the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, further highlights the importance attached to Kano in the current national development agenda. Her participation signals strong federal endorsement and reinforces Kano’s emerging role in Nigeria’s economic repositioning. For ordinary citizens, the implications are practical and far-reaching. Entrepreneurs, artisans, and young innovators across communities—from Fagge to Tarauni, Nasarawa to Ungogo—now have access to platforms that can translate ideas into viable businesses. Academic institutions, long limited to theoretical output, are also being integrated into a system that promotes commercial application of research. This approach aligns with the governor’s Kano First Agenda, which places citizens’ welfare at the core of governance. The administration has consistently maintained that decisions are guided by public interest rather than political considerations, positioning governance as a tool for development rather than control. The outcomes of this strategy are increasingly measurable. The state’s 2026 budget, valued at ₦1.477 trillion, allocates 68 percent to capital projects, reflecting a strong infrastructure focus. Social investment programmes have seen over ₦334 million disbursed to women across all 44 local government areas, while youth empowerment initiatives have attracted over ₦800 million in funding. In the education sector, Kano’s performance in the 2025 NECO examinations marked a significant milestone, while the health sector has benefited from an allocation of ₦212.2 billion, supporting expanded healthcare access and new initiatives such as the Abba Care Scheme. Infrastructure development, with over ₦346.2 billion allocated, spans roads, housing, solar lighting, and market upgrades statewide. These developments reflect a governance model that emphasises measurable impact, transparency, and long-term planning. They also demonstrate how strategic political decisions can translate into tangible economic and social benefits when aligned with clear developmental goals. As Kano prepares to host national attention with the ECoN initiative, the broader narrative is becoming evident: the state’s engagement with the Federal Government is not merely political—it is economic, strategic, and people-focused. At its core, the administration’s approach underscores a simple but defining principle: governance must deliver real value to the people. For Kano, that value is beginning to take shape in the form of opportunities, investments, and renewed economic vitality.

By Saminu Umar, Ph.D, Senior Lecturer, Department of Information and Media Studies, Bayero University, Kano When Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf made the bold decision to align Kano State with the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, reactions were swift and deeply divided. Critics described it as political betrayal, while others framed it as opportunism. Yet, beneath the noise lay a singular motivation: advancing the welfare of ordinary Kano citizens—from market traders in Kurmi to small business owners in Farm Centre, widowed mothers in Dawakin Tofa, and unemployed graduates in Gwale. In less than a year, Kano has transitioned from perceived political isolation to a state strategically positioned within Nigeria’s development framework. Federal presence and investment have increased significantly, reflecting a shift from politically constrained governance to a more collaborative approach driven by public interest. For a state of Kano’s historical, commercial, and demographic importance, this repositioning signals a return to relevance at the national level. A defining example of this renewed partnership is the forthcoming Energise Commercialisation Now (ECoN) initiative, spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology under the leadership of Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh. Scheduled for April 23–25, 2026, the programme will be launched in Kano, underscoring the state’s significance as Northern Nigeria’s commercial hub. The initiative aims to transform viable innovations into scalable enterprises by linking innovators with investors and manufacturers. For Kano—home to a thriving informal economy, a dense network of SMEs, and a youthful population—this represents a rare opportunity to convert ideas into jobs and sustainable wealth. Read Also: APC Stakeholders Back Engr. Bichi for Kano Deputy Governor Slot KASSOSA, DMCSA Distribute N1.5m Drugs to Science Schools in Kano, Jigawa CITAD Distributes School Materials to Nomadic Pupils in Kano, Urges Increased Govt Intervention Adding further weight to the event is the expected presence of Oluremi Tinubu, whose attendance signals strong presidential backing. In Nigeria’s political context, such high-level engagement reflects deliberate federal recognition of Kano’s strategic importance. Beyond symbolism, the initiative offers practical benefits. Entrepreneurs, artisans, and graduates across Kano’s local governments stand to gain access to funding, mentorship, and markets. Institutions of higher learning can commercialise research outputs, while local industries—from textiles in Kofar Mata to leatherworks in Yan Kaba—can integrate into broader industrial value chains. This development aligns with Governor Yusuf’s Kano First Agenda, which prioritises people-centred governance over political considerations. The administration maintains that every policy decision is guided by accountability to the citizens rather than allegiance to political structures. The outcomes of this approach are increasingly measurable. The 2026 budget, valued at ₦1.477 trillion with 68 percent allocated to capital projects, reflects a strong development focus. Social interventions have seen over ₦334 million disbursed to 6,680 women across all 44 local government areas, while youth empowerment programmes exceeding ₦800 million have supported more than 5,300 beneficiaries. In education, Kano’s top ranking in the 2025 NECO results signals progress in human capital development. The health sector has received ₦212.2 billion, alongside expanded healthcare initiatives, while ₦346.2 billion has been allocated to infrastructure, including roads, housing, and market upgrades. As Kano prepares to host the First Lady and national stakeholders, the implications are clear. The state’s alignment with the Federal Government is beginning to translate into visible socio-economic gains. For many residents, the shift is less about politics and more about opportunity—access to jobs, improved services, and a pathway toward sustainable development. Ultimately, the evolving partnership underscores a central message: governance, when driven by strategic collaboration and focused on citizens’ welfare, can move beyond political rhetoric to deliver tangible results.

A coalition of stakeholders within the All Progressives Congress in Kano State has expressed strong support for the nomination of Rabiu Suleiman Bichi as Deputy Governor, saying his emergence would strengthen party unity ahead of the 2027 general elections. The position of the group was contained in a letter addressed to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf over the weekend and signed by the immediate past APC Chairman in the state, Abdullahi Abbas, alongside other party leaders. In the letter, the stakeholders described Bichi as a committed party member with a track record of service, citing his “wealth of experience” and what they termed an “untainted record” within the party. They noted that his nomination would help foster internal cohesion within the APC and position the party strongly for future electoral contests as preparations intensify toward 2027. Read Also: Kano APC Group Backs Dr. Asiya Ganduje for Deputy Governor “In view of the foregoing, we urge Your Excellency to give favourable consideration to his nomination in the overall interest of the party and the people of Kano State,” the letter stated. The endorsement, according to the group, enjoys broad backing from various APC blocs, including serving and former members of the House of Representatives, members of the Kano State House of Assembly, and former local government council chairmen across the state’s three senatorial districts. The stakeholders reiterated their commitment to the success of both the federal and Kano State governments, expressing optimism that Bichi’s nomination would further consolidate the party’s strength ahead of the 2027 elections.

A political group under the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State, known as Haɗin Kan Jam’iyyar APC ‘Yan Dangole, has declared its support for Dr. Asiya Abdullahi Umar Ganduje as Deputy Governor of the state. The group described Dr. Asiya Ganduje as a community-oriented leader who has consistently contributed to the development of society, particularly through initiatives targeted at empowering young people. According to the group, she has demonstrated competence and dedication in the political space, while also creating opportunities for youths and women in areas such as education, entrepreneurship, and self-reliance. Read Also: Kano Political Shift: Ganduje Hails Reps’ Defection to APC They further noted that her compassion and visionary approach to leadership have positioned her as a strong advocate for improving the welfare of the people, especially in encouraging greater participation of women in politics and economic activities. The group also commended her for her loyalty to party ideals and her ability to foster unity, describing her as a role model for women and youths. It added that her emergence as Deputy Governor would promote development, unity, and prosperity across Kano State.

A forum of former commissioners who served in Kano State between 2015 and 2023 has expressed strong support for the appointment of Murtala Sule Garo as Deputy Governor of the state. In a letter addressed to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, the group declared its “profound support and unalloyed solidarity,” describing Garo as a competent and experienced leader capable of strengthening the administration. The forum noted that having worked closely with Garo during their time in government, they could attest to his leadership qualities, administrative capacity, and commitment to grassroots development and political stability. Read Also: Why Garo is the Right Man to Deputize Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf Power play in Kano: is Murtala Garo the missing link In Yusuf’s political equation? Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf and Hon. Murtala Sule Garo: A Well‑Matched Pair of Walking Shoes According to the signatories, Garo’s track record reflects dedication to public service and positions him as a strategic asset whose experience and loyalty would complement the governor’s vision for the state. They further assured the governor of their collective support toward ensuring the success of the administration, while expressing confidence that the nomination would contribute positively to governance and development in the state. The letter was jointly signed by several former commissioners, including Muhammad Sanusi S. Kiru, Muhammad Garba, Mukhtari Ishaq Yakasai, Ibrahim Ahmed Karaye, Lamin Sani, Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure, Baffa Muhammad Takai, Barrister M. A. Lawan, Saleh Kausani, Idris Wada, Zahra’u Muhammad, Aminu Ibrahim Tsanyawa, Ya’u Abdullahi ‘Yanshana, Garba Yusuf Abubakar, Mahmud Muhammad Santsi, Kabiru Ibrahim Getso and Ibrahim Dan’Azumi Gwarzo, among others. Copies of the letter were also sent to the Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly and the Kano State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

By Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano  As Kano steadily moves toward the 2027 general elections, political alignments, quiet negotiations and strategic consultations are already shaping the state’s power dynamics. Beyond the slogans and elite endorsements, one reality remains constant: Kano politics has its winning card at the grassroots. It is within this context that I argue that Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo is the right man to deputize Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf in 2027. This interplay between Governor Abba’s temperament and Garo’s grassroots credibility becomes both relevant and compelling. Kano is not a state where elections are decided in boardrooms alone. Wards, polling units, community leaders and informal networks still determine electoral outcomes. Garo has over the years built a reputation as one of the most effective grassroots mobilizers in the state. His political strength is not rooted in noise or visibility on social media, but in deep connections with ordinary people, traders, youths, elders and local influencers who ultimately decide or influence votes. As political competition intensifies, particularly with Senator Barau Jibrin’s growing ambition to consolidate control of the APC in Kano, grassroots strength becomes even more critical. Barau’s strategy appears increasingly elite-driven, focused on institutional control and party structure. Historically, in Kano, elite consolidation without popular backing often collapses at the ballot box. Read Also: Waya Hails Governor Yusuf’s Reforms, Calls for End to Political Thuggery in Kano Governor Yusuf Defends APC Move, Insists He Leads Party in Kano APC Stakeholders Endorse Yusuf Buhari for House of Reps Seat in Katsina Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo represents the opposite: his style is people-driven. His relevance is amplified precisely at a time when mass mobilization, not party supremacy, will determine who governs Kano in 2027. Most importantly and interestingly Garo remains one of the very few political figures who can safely traverse the Kwankwasiyya political camp without hostility or rejection. This is simply because he is a natural giver and a bridge builder. Across political divides, Garo is widely regarded as someone who empowers rather than exploits, who builds people rather than merely harvests votes. Closely related to this is his deliberate avoidance of toxic politics. In an era marked by insults, misinformation, factional hatred and character assassination, Garo has consistently chosen restraint over provocation. He does not trade in abuse, ethnic baiting or political demonization. This mature political conduct has earned him respect even among opponents and explains his unusual acceptability across rival camps. Equally important is Garo’s long-standing relationship with Former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. Ganduje’s political machinery has always relied on trusted grassroots operators who understand the political terrain beyond official statistics. Garo has remained central to his network, not just as a loyal ally but as a dependable mobilizer who can translate political decisions into popular acceptability. However, Garo’s closeness to Ganduje has not distanced him from the people. On the contrary, he remains accessible and grounded, an increasingly rare quality in contemporary politics. His ability to position himself astride political elites and grassroots communities makes him a stabilizing force rather than a polarizing figure. The deputy governorship in Kano cannot be treated as a ceremonial position in the coming political cycle. The next administration will face opposition pressure and heightened public expectations. It will require a deputy governor who can defend the administration politically, mobilize support at critical moments and neutralize opposition narratives at the community level. Garo fits into this role not as an alternative power centre, but as a political shock absorber, someone capable of reinforcing Governor Abba’s leadership rather than competing with it. Ultimately, the argument for Garo is not about sentiment, personal loyalty or factional advantage. Rather it is about political realism; a view of how politics plays out in the state. Kano’s political history rewards leaders who understand the streets as much as the system. If Governor Abba’s 2027 ambition is about consolidation, stability and electoral strength, choosing a deputy with a proven grassroots credibility, cross-camp acceptance and a record of non-toxic politics will surely prove decisive.