President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent condolence visit to the Dantata family in Kano stirred a mix of emotions among residents not just for its solemn purpose, but also due to the absence of a familiar political figure, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Governor of Kano State.
Although his absence was officially attributed to a pre-scheduled engagement in London, Ganduje’s nonappearance rekindled deep reflections on his leadership era, particularly among Kano residents who now draw comparisons between his administration and the current New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP)-led government.
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Across the neighborhoods of Kano metropolis and the ten local government areas that constitute the state capital zone, many residents expressed a growing sense of concern for Ganduje’s time in office. Some described it as a period of visible development, responsive governance, and hands-on leadership. Even his former critics now appear to acknowledge his contributions this time, with tones of reconsideration and, in some cases, in a significant nod to his enduring legacy.
The NNPP government, on its part, claims to have fulfilled 85 percent of its campaign promises, a figure many Kano citizens believe does not align with their daily realities. Despite publicized achievements, numerous development sectors remain stagnant or underperforming compared to Ganduje’s administration.
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Basic infrastructure projects initiated or completed under Ganduje such as road expansions, healthcare upgrades, agricultural schemes, and educational reforms have either slowed down or been neglected. Notably, the Dansoshiya Livestock and Milk Production initiative, envisioned to transform Kano’s pastoral economy, has not enjoyed the same continuity or prioritization under the current leadership.
The flagship free education policy of the NNPP government, though widely promoted, faces significant implementation challenges. Parents still report paying unofficial fees, while many schools struggle with overcrowding and insufficient facilities.
Malam Shamsuddeen Musa, a resident of Kano Municipal, noted that while Ganduje’s tenure had its flaws, it delivered tangible development. “Whether you liked his politics or not, you could not deny that things were moving forward,” he remarked.
From 2015 to 2023, Ganduje prioritized infrastructure, human capital development, and the modernization of Kano as a megacity. His tenure saw improvements in markets that impacted business and boosted the state’s economic outlook. Initiatives like the Kantin Kwari Market modernization, GSM Market development, and low-cost housing schemes in places like Gurjiya stood out as people-focused projects.
His support for federal infrastructure such as the Kano–Kaduna rail project, rehabilitation of key hospitals, establishment of the Kano Cancer Treatment Centre, Zoo Road Pediatric Hospital, and major investments in education are frequently cited as lasting legacies. His restructuring of the traditional emirate system though politically controversial, was widely recognized as a bold administrative move that extended development to newly elevated emirates like Rano, Gaya, Karaye, and Bichi.
Many citizens now voice frustration that the momentum built under Ganduje has not been sustained. Projects such as the Kano Economic City and dam modernization efforts are either dormant or advancing at a sluggish pace.
Sani Bala, a retired civil servant, summed up the growing sentiment and said “Ganduje may have had his critics, but at least you could see his footprints across Kano. What we have today is more talk than work.”
Despite stepping down as APC National Chairman, Dr. Ganduje continues to command political respect. His long-standing alliance with President Tinubu, rooted in trust and shared political goals, remains intact. During the President’s recent Kano visit, the absence of such a close political ally did not go unnoticed and quickly became a talking point across the state.
As the NNPP-led government continues to chart its course, many in Kano look back on the Ganduje years with fresh appreciation. Whether this is driven by unmet expectations or sincere recognition of his developmental achievements, one thing is certain, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje remains a powerful reference point in discussions around Kano’s political and governance trajectory.
For many, his absence in moments like these only deepens the realization that his leadership may have been undervalued in real time.
Beyond his 8-year tenure as Governor of Kano, Ganduje’s nearly two-year term as APC National Chairman also stands out. It was marked by strategic political consolidation, party stability, and widespread defections into the APC. He is credited with winning the loyalty of numerous seasoned politicians across party lines including governors, senators, and lawmakers. This influence stems not only from his academic credentials and civil service experience but also from over two decades of active political leadership.
In a significant nod to that legacy, encomiums continue to pour in across Kano and beyond. Ganduje’s absence from governance may now be physical, but his presence is still very much felt, a testament to the enduring impact of his leadership.
Umar Idris Shuaibu writes from Kano.
