Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has provided a detailed account of his crucial closed-door discussion with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The meeting, which took place on Monday, January 19, 2026, has been described as a strategic engagement aimed at bolstering the state's security and development framework.
Security and Infrastructure Top the Agenda
According to a statement issued on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, by the governor's spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, the talks centered on pressing issues affecting Kano. Governor Yusuf highlighted the dire security situation, citing the recent "deeply disturbing" killing of a housewife and her children as a catalyst for his appeal. He called for immediate federal action to safeguard lives and property within the state.
The governor emphasized the need for enhanced cooperation between state and federal security agencies. He pushed for deeper collaboration with federal security institutions to improve intelligence sharing, operational coordination, and overall effectiveness in combating crime.
On infrastructure, Governor Yusuf expressed gratitude for the Federal Government's intervention on the Wujuwuju Road project. He described this initiative as a critical venture that will stimulate commercial activities and enhance connectivity across Kano, directly impacting economic growth.
Tinubu's Assurance and the Political Undercurrent
In response, President Tinubu reassured Governor Yusuf of his administration's full commitment to supporting Kano. The President pledged to work closely with the state government to address insecurity and promote sustainable development. He also reaffirmed his dedication to fostering national cohesion and inclusive growth across Nigeria.
This high-level consultation occurs amidst ongoing speculation about Governor Yusuf's potential defection from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Reports indicate that the planned move has stalled due to the governor's demand for an automatic governorship ticket for the 2027 elections. This request is said to conflict with the ambitions of other powerful APC figures in Kano, including Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin.
Ripples in Kano's Political Landscape
The governor's meeting and continued consultations in Abuja have intensified political maneuvers within the state. Notably, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, a key NNPP figure, has accused the Kano state government of coercing officials to defect to the APC. However, the State Commissioner for Information, Ibrahim Waiya, has denied these allegations, stating that any participation in defection activities is voluntary.
Meanwhile, Deputy Governor Aminu Gwarzo and other senior NNPP leaders have publicly reaffirmed their loyalty to Senator Kwankwaso and the Kwankwasiyya political movement, signaling a deepening rift as the 2027 electoral cycle approaches.
