Kano Governor Abba Yusuf Opens Up on Strategic APC Move for State Progress
Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has publicly explained his significant political decision to join the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing it as a strategic move designed to accelerate development in Nigeria's most populous state. The governor made these revelations during the 2026 Grand Rally held at Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano on Monday, February 16, addressing party leaders and supporters in a major political gathering.
Strategic Alignment with Federal Government
Governor Yusuf emphasized that Kano's immense size and national importance make it imperative for the state to work closely with the federal government. "Kano is too significant to remain politically isolated from federal initiatives," he stated, adding that the state must position itself strategically to benefit from national programs and investments. According to the governor, this decision was not driven by personal ambition but by his responsibility to the people of Kano.
"It is about placing Kano in a position where it can fully participate in national development and secure a better future for its citizens," Governor Yusuf explained during his address. His comments were officially documented in a statement released by his spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, confirming the governor's commitment to this new political direction.
Integration with Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda
The governor further elaborated that Kano must actively participate in President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, stressing that federal-level reforms require proper implementation and commitment to deliver tangible results. He expressed confidence that with APC backing and cooperation from the federal government, Kano would be better positioned to advance with stability and progress.
During the rally, Governor Yusuf expressed appreciation for key APC leaders who attended the event, including Vice President Kashim Shettima and several state governors, describing their presence as a strong signal of unity and support. He also praised former APC national chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, Kano APC chairman Abdullahi Abbas, and lawmakers from both national and state assemblies for standing with his administration.
Party Leadership and Support
In his remarks at the event, APC national chairman Professor Nentawe Yilwatda called on party members to rally behind Governor Yusuf, noting that the large turnout demonstrated Kano APC members' unity and readiness to advance the party's agenda in the state. Several APC leaders, including Ganduje, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, and other party stakeholders, pledged full cooperation and loyalty to Yusuf, assuring him of their support to maintain stability and ensure Kano benefits from federal opportunities.
Background and Political Context
Governor Yusuf formally resigned from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in January after visiting President Tinubu at the State House in Abuja. He attributed his departure to what he described as deepening internal crises and prolonged leadership disputes within the NNPP. This move follows a broader trend where several governors elected under opposition parties have defected to the APC, reshaping Nigeria's political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
However, not all reactions have been supportive. Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso expressed disappointment and pain over Governor Yusuf's defection from the NNPP to the APC, rejecting claims that internal crisis forced the governor's exit and insisting the NNPP remains stable and united. Kwankwaso warned that Abba Yusuf and his allies might face political consequences and could regret their decision in the future.
The governor's strategic realignment represents a significant development in Nigerian politics, highlighting the ongoing negotiations between state and federal interests as the country approaches another election cycle.
