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Abuja, Kano, National, Politics

Even Out of Office, Ganduje Remains the Soul of APC — Party Loyalist

In Nigeria’s turbulent political landscape, where loyalty often fades with power, one name continues to echo with authority and resilience, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, former Governor of Kano State and immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Though no longer holding office, Ganduje’s political influence remains deeply woven into the fabric of Nigeria’s ruling party, shaping its internal structure, policies, and grassroots coordination. Political observers agree that Ganduje’s imprint on the APC is not one that time or transition can erase. His tenure as National Chairman was marked by unity-building, reconciliation, and the institutional strengthening of the party. Under his watch, the APC’s internal cohesion was restored after years of factional disputes that threatened its stability. Related: Tinubu, Ganduje Join Dignitaries at Uzodinma’s Book Launch in Imo He also initiated reforms that gave the party a policy direction including the creation of The Progressive Institute (TPI), a think tank designed to advance research, ideological development, and evidence-based policy formulation for the APC. Even as leadership has changed hands, Ganduje’s influence continues to resonate across party ranks. His ability to engage governors, legislators, and party executives with calm but firm diplomacy has earned him a reputation as one of the APC’s most pragmatic bridge-builders. When contacted for his perspective, Umar Idris Shuaibu, a Kano-based journalist and loyal APC member, described Dr. Ganduje as the “soul of the party,” emphasizing that his relevance goes beyond political office. Read Also: Ganduje Emerges as Rallying Point for Kano Appointees in Push for 2027 “Dr. Ganduje represents consistency in leadership, he is a man whose political strength lies not just in his position, but in his principles. Even after leaving office, his voice still carries weight across the APC because he built trust, nurtured loyalty, and delivered results. You can’t talk about the APC’s survival and stability today without mentioning Ganduje’s influence. His ability to unify divergent interests within the party and sustain dialogue between leaders across the states made him an indispensable figure in Nigeria’s ruling political structure.” He added: “What sets him apart is his calm but strategic leadership style, he listens, negotiates, and builds consensus without losing sight of the bigger picture. During his tenure as APC National Chairman, he demonstrated maturity by reconciling internal factions and prioritizing party unity over personal gain. He also engineered the formation of The Progressive Institute (TPI), the party’s policy think tank designed to guide ideological direction and policy formulation, a move that further institutionalized knowledge-driven governance within the APC. Even in Kano, where the APC is currently in opposition, the structure he built remains intact because he invested in people, not just politics.” Looking ahead to 2027, Shuaibu believes Ganduje’s strategic influence will continue to shape APC’s evolution. “As we look toward 2027, Ganduje’s imprint on the APC remains visible in the party’s internal coordination, communication strategy, and grassroots mobilization. Many of us who learned from his political school of thought have come to value patience, inclusion, and bridge-building. Personally, I’ve learned that leadership is not about titles but about legacy — and Ganduje’s legacy is one of endurance, loyalty, and political resilience. His name will continue to echo wherever the APC story is told.” Political analysts share a similar sentiment, noting that Ganduje’s style of leadership — rooted in discipline, strategic thinking, and conflict management — has continued to guide the APC through post-election challenges and governance realignments. His knack for political stability, particularly in bridging divides between federal and state party organs, remains one of his lasting legacies. In a political climate often dominated by fleeting loyalties and internal rivalries, Ganduje’s enduring relevance underscores a deeper truth about leadership — that true influence is not measured by the office one holds, but by the structures, ideas, and people one leaves behind. Even out of office, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje remains, to many within and outside the APC, the party’s moral compass, strategist, and unifying force, the man whose political architecture continues to sustain Nigeria’s ruling party in both storm and calm.

Abuja, Kano, National

Ganduje: A Resilient Political Survivor Facing Image Wars

Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the immediate past governor of Kano State and former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), remains one of Nigeria’s most battle-tested politicians. From his early days as a grassroots mobilizer to his rise as governor and later national leader of the ruling party, Ganduje has weathered storms that could have ended the careers of many others. Today, as fresh allegations over the ownership of the Dala Inland Dry Port dominate headlines, Ganduje once again finds himself at the center of controversy. Yet for many who have followed his political journey, this is nothing new. Ganduje has always been tested, and time and again, he has emerged stronger. The Dry Port Allegations: Politics or Governance? Recent reports allege that Ganduje transferred Kano State’s 20 percent equity in the Dala Inland Dry Port to private interests, including his children. But his supporters dismiss the claims as politically motivated, pointing out that due process was followed and that the facility—long neglected by successive administrations—only became operational after Ganduje’s intervention. Read Also: ‘They Received More in Six Months Than I Did in Eight Years’ — Ganduje Blasts Yusuf “The truth is simple: without Ganduje, that port would still be abandoned land,” an ally remarked. “He provided the roads, water, electricity, and security that turned it into a reality. That is leadership, not politics.” NNPP’s Strategy: Tarnish Ganduje, Deflect Criticism Since taking office in 2023, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and the NNPP have made probes into Ganduje a central theme of their administration. To many in Kano, this reflects a deliberate effort to weaken Ganduje’s influence rather than deliver governance. Observers also point to the much-publicized ₦6 billion scandal involving Protocol Officer Abdullahi Rogo—an aide under the NNPP administration—as an example of selective accountability. “They are desperate to drag Ganduje’s name through the mud while scandals under their watch are quietly overlooked,” a political analyst said. Ganduje’s Record vs. Current Realities Ganduje’s eight years in office are remembered for major infrastructural and social investments. His administration constructed roads and flyovers, expanded schools and hospitals, invested in housing estates, and introduced modern settlements to address the herders-farmers crisis. By contrast, critics argue that the NNPP government has focused more on demolitions, probes, and political vendettas than tangible development. “Two years in, they cannot point to signature projects,” a loyalist argued. “The people were promised transformation, but what they see is endless excuses.” Strength in Adversity What sets Ganduje apart is not only his governance record but his ability to endure political storms. Despite repeated attempts to discredit him, he remains a formidable political figure in Kano and across Nigeria. His elevation to APC National Chairman after leaving office underscored the confidence his party placed in his political skills and stabilizing influence. “Ganduje is a master of survival,” said one APC stalwart. “Every attack seems to reinforce his relevance. He remains calm, strategic, and resilient. That is why he is still standing tall while many of his rivals fade away.” The Bigger Picture The clash between Ganduje and the NNPP administration goes beyond the dry port—it is ultimately a battle over legacy. For Ganduje, his record of roads, hospitals, schools, and functional projects speaks louder than allegations. For his critics, unproven accusations remain the preferred weapon. But if history is a guide, Ganduje has shown an uncanny ability to outlast political storms. His resilience, networks, and governance record continue to ensure his place in Kano’s political story. As one supporter put it: “They may try to bury him with allegations, but Ganduje has planted too many seeds of progress for his legacy to be erased.”

Abuja, Kano, National, Politics

Ganduje Rallies Kano APC Leaders, Declares Full Support for Tinubu Ahead of 2027

The immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Governor of Kano State, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, on Thursday led a delegation of party leaders from Kano in pledging solid support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027. At a high-level strategy meeting in Abuja, Ganduje, alongside Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin and other prominent Kano APC figures, also vowed to reclaim the governorship seat from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in the next general elections. The closed-door session drew notable stakeholders, including Minister of State for Housing, Abdullahi Ata; Senator Kawu Sumaila; House Appropriation Committee Chairman, Hon. Abubakar Kabir Bichi; former Governor Kabiru Gaya; and several serving and former legislators and commissioners. Related: Photos: Ganduje Hosts Deputy Governors’ Forum, Visits Ex-Minister Gwarzo in Abuja Speaking after the meeting, Ganduje described Kano APC as “united, intact, and stronger than ever,” stressing that the party is well-positioned to deliver victory for President Tinubu and reclaim Kano State in 2027. “Our party has grown from strength to strength. Many prominent politicians from other parties have joined our fold, from senators to former commissioners and assembly members. This shows APC remains the platform of choice in Kano State,” Ganduje said. He added that the party will intensify mobilization during the ongoing voter registration exercise to secure victory both at the state and national levels. Deputy Senate President Jibrin echoed Ganduje’s remarks, noting that Tinubu’s policies have benefited Kano and the wider North. He urged APC supporters to continue backing the president and projecting his achievements. House Appropriations Committee Chairman, Hon. Bichi, reinforced this view, stressing that Tinubu’s projects in Kano prove his commitment to the state. “Come 2027, Kano will stand solidly behind the president and elect an APC governor, Insha Allah,” he said. The Abuja meeting, observers note, signals a renewed push by Kano APC leaders to consolidate the party’s strength and align fully with the president ahead of the 2027 polls.

Abuja, News, Politics

Photos: Ganduje Hosts Deputy Governors’ Forum, Visits Ex-Minister Gwarzo in Abuja

The immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Governor of Kano State, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has continued a series of high-level political engagements in Abuja. Earlier, Ganduje received members of the Forum of Deputy Governors at his Asokoro residence. The delegation, led by Forum Chairman Charis Akomas, paid a courtesy call to the former governor in what was described as part of their ongoing consultations with national leaders. Read Also: Ganduje Hosts Former Kano LG Chairmen Ahead of 2027 Elections In a separate engagement, Ganduje also visited former Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Alhaji Abdullahi Tijjani Gwarzo, a seasoned politician who previously served as Deputy Governor of Kano State from 2007 to 2011 under Malam Ibrahim Shekarau. Gwarzo also held the position of Gwarzo Local Government Chairman before his ministerial appointment. Notably, the visit coincided with Gwarzo’s 65th birthday, which he marked on September 23, further adding warmth and significance to the occasion. Although details of the discussions at both meetings were not disclosed, the engagements underscore Ganduje’s continued influence and active role in fostering relationships with key political stakeholders at both state and national levels. The meetings come at a time when political consultations are intensifying ahead of the 2027 general elections, with Kano and Abuja once again serving as focal points of strategic alignments.

Abuja, Kano, News

Ex-Hisbah Commanders Accuse Kano Govt of Politically Motivated Dismissal

A group of former Hisbah commanders from all 44 local government areas in Kano State have alleged that they were sacked by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration because they refused to join the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and the Kwankwasiyya Movement. Speaking when they paid a solidarity visit to the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, in Abuja, their leader, Alhaji Ahmad Kadawa, said their removal in 2023 was nothing short of politics. Read Also: Dan Agundi Inaugurates Committee to Screen 1,000 Dismissed Hisbah Personnel “They removed us simply because we would not join the NNPP or wear the red cap that represents the Kwankwasiyya Movement,” Kadawa told the lawmaker. “We are here to reaffirm our loyalty to you and the All Progressives Congress (APC). Your programmes have already won the hearts of many in Kano.” Senator Barau, in his response, sympathised with the commanders, describing their dismissal as unfair. He urged them to remain calm and take it as a trial from Allah (SWT), assuring them that justice would come in due time. “By Allah’s grace, the time will come when you will be reinstated and your entitlements paid,” he said, encouraging them to remain patient and law-abiding. As of the time of this report, the Kano State Government had not responded to the allegations.

National, Politics

Tinubu’s Record Driving Defections to APC, Says Yilwatda

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, has expressed confidence that more state governors will defect to the ruling party before the 2027 general elections, strengthening President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid. Yilwatda made the remarks on Tuesday at the 12th Expanded Stakeholders’ Meeting of the APC in Bayelsa State, where party leaders unanimously endorsed Tinubu as their sole presidential candidate for the next election cycle. Represented by the Deputy National Chairman (South), Chief Emma Eneukwu, the APC chairman said Tinubu’s performance in office was attracting prominent political figures, including governors and senators, from opposition parties. Read Also: Engr. Ganduje’s Mega Empowerment Transforms Lives of Kano Youths Wike Appoints Acting Head of Service for FCT Administration APC Chair Yilwatda Hails Ganduje as ‘Co-Chairman’ of Party “More governors and lawmakers are still on their way to our party because of the calibre, integrity, and achievements of the president. Our doors are wide open to accommodate those willing to join hands with us to move Nigeria forward,” he stated. Yilwatda cited the recent defections of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno as evidence of Tinubu’s growing political influence across the country. He urged party members in Bayelsa to embrace unity, noting that collective effort was crucial to securing victory in 2027. “Other parties may make noise, but when you have a lion, it does not bother about barking dogs—it focuses on its mission. That is what President Tinubu is doing: taking the bull by the horns where others lacked the political will,” Yilwatda said. The APC chairman also commended political leaders in the South-South and South-East for what he described as “realistic decisions” to leave opposition parties and rally behind the president. “From the South-South to the South-East, leaders are aligning with the APC because they have seen the president’s determination to take Nigeria to greater heights,” he added.

Abuja, Kano, National, Politics

The Strategist-in-Chief: How Ganduje Stays Relevant After Power

When Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje stepped down as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), many political observers speculated that his influence on Nigeria’s turbulent political scene might wane. But the former Kano State governor, known for his resilience and deep political networks, continues to assert his presence in both northern and southern political circles. In Kano, Ganduje remains a towering figure despite the setbacks his loyalists have faced since the opposition New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf took power. He is still regarded as a political godfather by several lawmakers, party loyalists, and grassroots supporters, with many describing him as the “strategist-in-chief” of Kano politics. Nationally, Ganduje’s brief but eventful tenure as APC Chairman left an imprint on the party. He assumed office at a time of turbulence, tasked with balancing power blocs after the 2023 elections and managing the early days of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. While his leadership style drew mixed reactions, his ability to hold the party together amid defections and regional agitations is still being studied. Related: APC Chair Yilwatda Hails Ganduje as ‘Co-Chairman’ of Party Beyond the North, Ganduje has been active in fostering political collaborations across the South, particularly as debates on restructuring, power-sharing, and economic reforms intensify. His recent engagements with leaders outside Kano highlight a deliberate effort to maintain visibility and relevance on the national stage. Analysts suggest that Ganduje is positioning himself as a kingmaker ahead of the 2027 elections, leveraging his networks within the APC and across opposition lines. While age and controversies around his tenure in Kano may cast shadows, his political longevity is undeniable. For a man who has weathered storms in Kano politics and at the national level, Ganduje’s story underscores a familiar truth in Nigerian politics: influence does not always come from holding office, but from the ability to shape conversations and broker alliances. As the countdown to 2027 gathers momentum, all eyes will be on whether Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje will reinvent himself as a quiet strategist, a political dealmaker, or a resurgent frontline player in Nigeria’s ever-shifting political chessboard.

Abuja, Kano, News, Politics

APC Chieftain Urges Kano Govt to Allow Court Decide N6.5bn Diversion Case

The Director of Training and Programmes at the Progressive Institute, Sanusi Sa’id Kiru, has advised Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State to refrain from making public comments on the alleged N6.5 billion diversion involving the Protocol Directorate of Government House. This was contained in a statement made available to journalists in Kano, where Kiru, a former Commissioner of Education in the state, stressed that ongoing litigation should be allowed to run its course without interference. He noted that rather than dismissing the allegations as false, the governor should encourage patience and trust in the judicial process, thereby demonstrating his administration’s commitment to transparency and anti-corruption. Read Also: Kano Govt Denies N6.5bn Diversion Allegation, But Activist Abba Hikma Demands Probe “By allowing the courts to determine the matter, the Governor would uphold the rule of law and show respect for the institutions that govern our society,” he said. Kiru described the government’s public reaction as a “desperate attempt to save face,” warning that such responses only raise further questions about those possibly involved. “How can you dismiss it by saying it is a lie, despite the available evidence?” he queried, urging the state government to let the legal process speak for itself. He further stressed that as a beneficiary of judicial processes in past political battles, it was inappropriate for the governor to publicly dismiss a case that is already before a competent court of law.

Kano, News, Politics

Appointment of Mustapha Bala Dawaki as APC Chief of Staff Sparks Jubilation in Kano

The good people of Dawakin Kudu and Warawa Local Government Areas of Kano State on Sunday trooped out in large numbers to warmly receive their son and political mentor, Hon. Mustapha Bala Dawaki, following his appointment as Chief of Staff to the National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda. The colourful homecoming, which took place across several communities in the two local governments, was marked by jubilation, encomiums, and cultural displays, as youths, women, party stalwarts, and traditional leaders celebrated the elevation of one of their own to a national leadership position in the APC. Mustapha Bala Dawaki was accompanied by former Commissioner of Education, Honourable Sanusi Sa’id Kiru, who currently serves as the Director of Training and Programmes at the Progressive Institute (TPI), Abuja, alongside other close political allies. Their presence further underscored the significance of the occasion and the broad network of support around Dawaki. Read Also: APC Plateau Mourns Passing of National Chairman Yilwatda’s Mother Addressing the crowd, Hon. Dawaki expressed gratitude to the people of Dawakin Kudu and Warawa for their unflinching support throughout his political journey, assuring them that his new role would open greater opportunities not only for the two local governments but for Kano State as a whole. He pledged to use his office to strengthen the ruling party and support the leadership of Prof. Nentawe in repositioning the APC for greater success ahead of future elections. Community leaders and APC stakeholders who spoke at the event described Dawaki’s appointment as well-deserved, citing his years of service, loyalty to the party, and grassroots connection. They prayed for his success and reiterated their commitment to rallying behind him in his new assignment. The celebratory reception was also seen as a demonstration of Dawaki’s growing influence within Kano politics and his strong bond with his people, who turned out en masse to honor him. Photos:

National, News

TPI Trains Imo LG Officials on Public Sector Governance

The Progressive Institute (TPI), the official think tank of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has concluded a three-day training on Public Sector Governance for principal officers of the 27 Local Governments in Imo State. This was conveyed in a statement signed by Wale Abideen, Head of Media and Strategic Communication of the Institute. The retreat, themed “Enhancing Local Government Governance for Sustainable Development,” was declared open by the Executive Governor of Imo State and Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, Hope Uzodimma, on Wednesday, 13th August, at the Sam Mbakwe Hall in Owerri. It ended on Friday, 15th August, 2025, with the presentation of certificates to participants. Related: Why Kano APC Backs Ganduje, Declares Him ‘Undisputed Leader’ of the Party Declaring the program open, Governor Uzodimma charged the participants to be good ambassadors of the APC in their respective local governments and wards. He warned officials against indiscipline and corruption, urging compliance with law and order as well as dedication to service. He emphasized that his administration would not condone “diaspora local government officials” and directed council chairmen and councillors to reside within their communities. “As local government officials, you’re expected to live within your communities. You must be able to relate well with your community leaders, traditional rulers, youths, and ordinary citizens in your community to determine what their needs are and act on them accordingly. All chairmen must live within their local government and the councillors must reside within their wards. This is a must; hence I have tasked security agencies to monitor you,” Governor Uzodimma stated as he hailed The Progressive Institute for the quality of the training. The Director General of The Progressive Institute, Lanre Adebayo, Ph.D, thanked Governor Uzodimma for fulfilling a promise he made at the inauguration of TPI in September 2024. Read Also: Tinubu Hails Ganduje’s Leadership, Commends Role in Establishing APC Progressive Institute “I would like to express my profound gratitude and admiration to Your Excellency, the Governor of Imo State, for your visionary leadership and commitment to the development of Imo State,” Dr. Adebayo said. According to him, “The retreat is a collaborative effort between The Progressive Institute and the Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in Imo State, and we are honored to have such a distinguished group of guests to grace this occasion. Today, we have a total of 575 participants, comprising key officials from 27 local government areas of Imo State, including Chairmen, Vice Chairmen, LG Secretaries, Treasurers, Directors of Personnel Management, Councillors, and Supervisory Councillors.” The participants were trained in eight critical areas: Public Procurement, Public Financial Management, Public Service Rules, Public Policy Process and Communication, Public Sector Ethics and Anti-Corruption Legislation, Law Making Process at the Local Government Level, Revenue Generation Strategies, and Monitoring and Evaluation of Projects. The three-day continuous training featured thought-provoking discussions, insightful presentations, and interactive sessions aimed at enhancing the officials’ understanding of Public Sector Governance in line with progressive ideology.

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