President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed Kano’s central role in Nigeria’s political and economic future, declaring the state indispensable to national progress.

Mr Tinubu spoke at a grand reception for Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf in Kano on Monday, marking the governor’s formal defection to the All Progressives Congress.

Represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, Mr Tinubu described the occasion as a defining moment in Kano State’s evolving political landscape.

“Kano State is too significant to be sidelined. It is a cornerstone of our nation’s growth, and we cannot afford to see it left behind,” the president said.

He hailed Mr Yusuf’s decision to defect to the APC, saying it strengthened Kano’s alignment with national development priorities.

“We are proud to welcome you into the APC. Together, we will work toward a more inclusive and prosperous Nigeria,” stated Mr Shettima. “The president has made it clear that your role within this party is crucial. You are joining us to offer unwavering support for our shared goals.”

The Kano governor thanked the president and party leaders for the reception, pledging that his defection would not derail his commitment to fairness and justice.

“While our decision to align with the APC will not compromise my aspirations for a just society, it will attract opportunities and deliver benefits for Kano state,” said Mr Yusuf.

He commended Mr Tinubu for approving N5 billion in federal support, alongside N3 billion from the APC Governors’ Forum.

“This assistance will address the aftermath of the recent fire disaster. The collective N8 billion symbolises the strong bond between Kano State and the Federal Government,” Mr Yusuf added.

The APC national chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, said Kano State would gain fresh impetus for development through the partnership.

“This alignment will provide Governor Yusuf with the progressive mindset to further drive development in Kano State,” Mr Yilwatda stated.

Governor Hope Uzodimma, chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, described Mr Yusuf’s defection as a homecoming.

“He is back home after a brief time away, returning to his original political home,” Mr Uzodimma said. “Kano state is the brain of Nigerian politics. When Kano gets it right, Nigeria gets it right.”

Former APC national chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, said, “We are no longer a scattered group. We are now a united body under the APC.” 

The Kano governor officially defected from NNPP to the APC on January 26. 

(NAN)