The Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has appealed to the leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, to put aside personal interests and support what he described as ongoing efforts to build a “new Kano.”
Speaking during the annual Hawan Nassarawa celebration on Friday, Governor Yusuf said Kwankwaso should join the administration’s peace and development agenda aimed at ensuring stability and progress in the state.
“I call on him to look at Kano beyond personal interests and join the train of peace and the new Kano that will guarantee a stable and developed state,” the governor said.
Yusuf noted that during a recent public programme, many political figures attended, including governors who had previously experienced disagreements with their deputies, but observed that Kwankwaso was absent.
The governor said his administration’s main goal is to build a united Kano where citizens can live in peace and harmony. He also praised the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, for his continuous advice and support.
However, Yusuf stressed that his calm approach to governance should not be mistaken for weakness.
“I have never feared anybody in my life. My humility is not cowardice, but respect and closeness to the people,” he stated.
According to the governor, his administration inherited a state suffering from infrastructural decay and declining social values. He said several reforms had been introduced peacefully to correct the situation without creating tension.
Yusuf explained that his government deliberately avoided actions that could lead to violence, including suspending the Hawan Daushe festivities, in order to prevent a repeat of the bloodshed witnessed two years ago.
He assured the Emir that he would remain on the throne and hinted that a major durbar celebration would soon take place in Kano.
The governor also urged residents to remain patient, saying the reconciliation strategy adopted by his administration had helped restore peace in the state.
Yusuf further revealed that while most of his advisers were performing well, a small number were allegedly creating problems within the government.
“We are watching them, and they will face the consequences of their negative actions,” he warned.
On infrastructure, the governor disclosed that the state government is spending ₦9.9 billion on the rehabilitation of the Tamburawa waterworks project and investing additional funds in the Challawa water scheme to improve access to clean drinking water across Kano.
