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Tag: Abba Yusuf

  • Yusuf sets up panel to probe Ganduje over alleged sale of Kano abattoir

    Yusuf sets up panel to probe Ganduje over alleged sale of Kano abattoir

    Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has constituted an 11 member panel to investigate immediate past governor, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje over the sale of the Nigerian Meat and Allied Products (NIMAP) Abattoir in the state during his reign.

    The multi-billion naira facility, which occupies a vast land at Chalawa Industrial Area, was built by the administration of erstwile governor of Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, it was learnt.

    It was designed to render multiple services that could generate revenues, while creating job opportunities for Kano people, the governor said, accusing his predecessor of “auctioning” the facility illegally.

    Inaugurating the committee yesterady at the Cabinet Office, Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Umar Faruq Ibrahim, who stood in for the governor, said the “investigation is imperative to hold immediate past administration accountable.”

    Yusuf insisted his administration has the responsibility to protect critical infrastructure of the state illegally auctioned for selfish interest.

    The SSG pointed the investigative panel headed by former Chairman of the state Anti-Corruption Agency Muhuyi Magagi Rimin-Gado was directed to recover public assets and recommend punitive measures against individual found guilty of corruption.

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    The governor urged the panel to discharge the entrusted responsibility in the overall interest of justice, and equity, without fear or favour.

    He said: “The committee is mandated to probe the circumstances surrounding the sale of the land and equipment in the Nigerian Meat and Allied Products (NIMAP) Abattoir.

    “You are to review all documents, agreements and approval if any related to the transaction, and assess the level of compliance with relevant laws and due process.

    “The panel shall determine the roles and culpability of individuals, organizations, or government agencies involved in the despicable act, recover any public funds, assets, or equipment lost in the process.

    “Recommend possible legal, administrative, or disciplinary actions or measures against those found culpable, verify the legality or otherwise of the transactions, by assessing whether due process was followed in the valuation and price fixing.

    “Suggest any other measures which in the opinion of the committee could prevent future similar occurrence and as well propose steps to facilitate the establishment of a modern meat processing plant that meets international standards.”

  • Kano gov fires two aides over alleged misconduct

    Kano gov fires two aides over alleged misconduct

    Kano State governor, Abba Yusuf, yesterday approved the dismissal of two Senior Special Assistants, Abubakar Sharada and Tasiu Al’amin Roba, for  alleged misconduct.

    The dismissed aides were implicated in separate cases, including facilitating the bail of notorious drug baron, Sulaiman Danwawu, and diverting palliative grains meant for the public.

    This was contained in a statement issued by the Press Secretary to the State Government, Musa Tanko, on Saturday in Kano.

    Concerning Sharada, the Senior Special Assistant on Political Mobilisation, was accused of masterminding the bail of the drug baron.

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    He was directed to hand over all government properties in his care by August 11.

    Roba, the Senior Special Assistant, Cabinet Office, was arrested for allegedly re-bagging palliative grains at a warehouse in Sharada in 2024.

    He is currently facing charges of theft and criminal conspiracy and has been ordered to return all government properties, including his identity card, by August 11.

    Both aides have also been cautioned against parading themselves as public officials under the current administration.

  • Yusuf declares Monday public holiday in honour of Kano athletes

    Yusuf declares Monday public holiday in honour of Kano athletes

    • Abiodun lifts victims’ families with N1m each

    Kano State Governor  Abba Yusuf  has declared today as a public holiday to honour the memory of the 22 Kano athletes and officials who died in a road accident while returning from the National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

    A statement in Kano yesterday by the Governor’s spokesperson, Mr Sanusi Bature, said the victims, mostly youths, were part of the state’s contingent to the just-concluded National  Sports Festival.

    “On behalf of the government and the good people of Kano State, we extend our heartfelt condolences over the unfortunate incident that occurred along the Kano–Zaria expressway,” Bature said.

    He quoted Yusuf, who is currently in Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj operations, as describing the incident as a dark moment for the state.

    “It is with a deeply saddened heart that I received the tragic news of the unfortunate incident which claimed the lives of 22 innocent citizens and left several others injured,” he said.

    The Governor called on the people  to remain calm and united during this difficult period, adding that all necessary support would be extended to the families of the deceased and the injured.

    He also urged Imams and faithful across the state and beyond to offer prayers for the repose of the souls of the departed and for their families to find strength in this moment of grief.

    Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, yesterday sent a  delegation to Kano State to commiserate with the government and the people  over the loss.

     Abiodun also gave NI million  to each of   the families of the victims as initial support.

    The delegation, led by the Ogun State Deputy Governor,  Noimot Salako-Oyedele, included the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Tokunbo Talabi;  Commissioner for Sports Development,  Wasiu Isiaka and  Executive Secretary, Local Organising Committee (LOC), Gateway Games Ogun 2024, Dr Kweku Tandoh.

    It also included the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Sports, Comrade Lanre Ogunyinka,  Coach of Team Ogun; Idris Oguntayo; a female athlete from Team Ogun, Ms Atinuke Onabiyi,  and a male athlete from the same Team, Ayomide Oyegbade.

    The delegation, which arrived in Kano around 9am, was received by officials of the government led by  Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdusalam Gwarzo.

    Expressing Governor Abiodun’s sense of  personal loss over the tragic incident,  Deputy Governor  Salako-Oyedele, commiserated with the Kano State Government.

    Read Also: NNPP chieftain mourns Kano athletes, sympathises with governor Yusuf

    She said: “We know that the Governor is out of the state on Hajj but we felt we had to be here to show our support to him, the Government and the people of Kano State in these trying times.

    “This is a devastating loss for Kano State, for the athletics community and especially for the families and friends of the individuals who were affected by this tragic incident. We also pray for the speedy recovery of the other people who are in hospital at this time, who rushed to the aid of the victims at the time.

    “I know we have several of the victims here, and I know that the police, FRSC, and so many organizations also rushed to their aid and I want to thank them all. Our prayer is that this kind of thing will never happen again and that Allah accepts the return of the deceased to Him, forgive their shortcomings and grant them Aljanat Firdaus and also grant their families and the loved ones that they left behind the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”

    Replying,  Deputy Governor Gwarzo expressed the  state government’s appreciation for the visit. He said   that the government was not  in doubt about Governor Abiodun’s concern. He said that Governor Abiodun had called to commiserate  with the government and people  over the incident on Saturday.

  • Yusuf swears in Kano security commissioner

    Yusuf swears in Kano security commissioner

    Gov. Abba Yusuf of Kano State on Monday swore in AVM Ibrahim Umaru (rtd) as Commissioner for Internal Security and Special Services.

    The ceremony was held at the start of the 28th Kano State Executive Council meeting, which took place at Kwankwasiyya City.

    This is contained in a statement issued by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mustapha Muhammad, on Monday.

    The governor noted that Umaru was appointed based on merit and his proven ability to coordinate security agencies’ operations effectively across the state.

    Read Also: Yusuf  reveals Nasarawa’s winning  secret against Lobi Stars

    “Umaru’s expertise in critical security roles and his distinguished military career make him ideal to lead our internal security efforts,” he stated.

    Yusuf urged the new commissioner to apply his experience in tackling security challenges currently facing Kano State.

    “I expect him to work tirelessly to keep Kano safe and prosperous for all citizens,” Yusuf added.

    Before this appointment, Umaru served as Director-General of the Special Services Directorate at the Kano State Government House.

    (NAN)

  • Yusuf: wherever Kwankwaso goes, we follow

    Yusuf: wherever Kwankwaso goes, we follow

    With a promise key into his predecessor’s political decisions, Kano State Abba Yusuf yesterday reaffirmed his commitment to Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso.

    “Wherever he goes politically, his supporters will follow,” the governor declared, pledging to follow Kwankwaso’s political lead.

    Yusuf made the declaration while addressing 484 local government councilors from the 44 Local government areas at the Government House in Kano yesterday.

    Yusuf also dismissed the allegations made by a former Secretary to the State Government (SSG), that Kwankwaso was collecting N2 billion from the state government.

    Describing the claim as “false and laughable”, the governor refuted claims that Kwankwaso was receiving N2 billion monthly from the government.

    Read Also: Kano APC asks Kwankwaso to apologise to President, Shettima before joining party

    According to him, the allegation “is the height of political desperation and dishonesty.”

    Yusuf praised Kwankwaso as “one of the purest and most selfless individuals in Kano,” stating that he has never demanded any funds from the administration or interfered with government’s finances.

    The governor questioned the former SSG’s timing and motive, stating that he served in the government for over a year without raising concerns, adding, “he is only speaking out after his dismissal due to poor performance.

    “He should have spoken out while still in office if he had genuine concerns. You were in this government for more than a year, if you had any integrity, you would have spoken out while still in office.

    “But you chose silence until you were sent parking. That exposes your real motive.”

    The governor reaffirmed his commitment to transparency and good governance.

    Yusuf also urged the people of the state to disregard what he described as “the noise of bitter politicians who have lost relevance.”

  • Kano Gov, Chinese ambassador push for stronger economic ties

    Kano Gov, Chinese ambassador push for stronger economic ties

    The governor of Kano State, Abba Yusuf, on Thursday hosted a Chinese delegation led by the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Dunhai Yu, where the two sought stronger economic and diplomatic ties.

    Yusuf announced plans to unveil a five-year multi-sectoral investment strategy, from 2025 to 2029, to attract more Chinese investors’ incentives that will not only attract but also retain investments in Kano State,” he said.

    Yusuf said Kano was a strategic commercial hub with immense investment opportunities and with incentives that will attract and retain foreign investments.

    He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to strengthening economic and infrastructural collaboration with China while inviting Chinese investors to take advantage of the state’s conducive business environment.

    “Kano is a historical commercial centre in sub-Saharan Africa and an industrial hub with a conducive business environment for Chinese investors. The state offers significant economic advantages, including access to raw materials, a strategic location, and large markets,” he said.

    Yusuf acknowledged China’s global economic leadership and its remarkable strides in infrastructure, banking, insurance, and industrialisation.

    He also recognised China’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s economy, citing trade, investment, infrastructure, and financial assistance as key areas of collaboration.

    “The bilateral trade between China and Nigeria reached over $22.6 billion in 2023, and Kano has benefited greatly from this relationship. Chinese companies have played a major role in infrastructural development within the state,” he said.

    The governor highlighted that about 55 percent of ongoing infrastructural projects in Kano are being handled by Chinese firms, referencing the construction of five major flyovers, four of which were built by Chinese companies. He expressed gratitude for their contributions and assured continued cooperation.

    He commended China for its support in sponsoring Kano students for studies in Chinese universities, urging the Chinese government to expand the scholarship program to enhance human capital development and foster better communication between the business communities in both regions.

    In his response, Ambassador Dunhai Yu appreciated the warm reception accorded him. He described Kano as a key economic and cultural hub in West Africa with over 1,000 years of rich history.

    Read Also: Kano Gov. Yusuf bags ‘African governor of the year award for good governance’

    “Kano is home to many Chinese investors and entrepreneurs, and they all feel welcome here,” he said.

    “The relationship between China and Kano is built on mutual respect and beneficial cooperation in infrastructure, agriculture, manufacturing and education.”

    The ambassador highlighted China’s commitment to expanding partnership with Kano, particularly in agriculture, infrastructure development, trade and education.

    He revealed plans to facilitate investment from Shandong Province -one of China’s largest economies- into Kano’s agricultural sector, irrigation system, and manufacturing industry.

    Yu also reaffirmed China’s willingness to support Nigeria’s push for economic diversification, particularly through investments in renewable energy and electric vehicle manufacturing.

    Yu said, “China leads the world in electric vehicles and renewable energy, and we are ready to collaborate with Kano to advance its industrialisation efforts.”

  • Kano constitutes consumer protection council

    Kano constitutes consumer protection council

    Gov. Abba Yusuf of Kano State has approved the composition of the Kano State Consumer Protection Council (KSCPC) aimed at safeguarding the rights and interests of consumers across the state.

    A statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Dawakin-Tofa, on Saturday, said the council comprised seasoned professionals, government officials and business representatives.

    Dawakin-Tofa said this was to ensure fair trade practices and protect consumers from exploitation.

    He listed members of the council to include, Dr. Umar Garba Haruna as chairman and Alhaji Zangina Jafaru as Executive Secretary.

    Other members are: Ibrahim Gama representing Kano Central; Hajiya Sadiya Bichi representing Kano North; Alhaji Hussaini Gidado, representing Kano South; Alhaji Munzali Abubakar, representing Business Community I (Kantin Kwari Market); and Ali Adakawa representative Business Community II (Kwanar Singa).

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    The membership also include: Alhaji Ahmed Chedi, representative of Business Community III (Dawanau Market); Sani Gambo, representative of Business Community IV (Abubakar Rimi Market); Halima Ahmad, representative of Ministry of Justice; and Prof. Salisu Ahmad, representative of Ministry of Health.

    Other members are: Aminu Yushe’u, representative of Ministry of Environment; Bashir Gezawa, representative of Ministry of Local Government; Maryam Haruna (Director Special Duties), representative of Ministry of Women Affairs; Bashir Uba (Director Investment), representative of Ministry of Investment/Commerce.

    Others are: Faisal Mahmud, representative of Ministry of Transportation (Agency); Umar Zubairu, representative of Special Service Directorate; and Shamsu Jibrin, who will serve as Secretary/Legal Adviser of the Council.

    Yusuf said that the council’s primary mandate was to protect consumers’ rights and ensure that businesses operate under fair, transparent and lawful conditions.

  • JUST IN: Kano governor’s aide dies a day after appointment 

    JUST IN: Kano governor’s aide dies a day after appointment 

    Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has mourned the demise of his newly appointed Special Adviser on Works, Ahmad Ishaq Bunkure. 

    Bunkure died in Egypt on Tuesday, 7 January, following his appointment on Monday, 6 January. 

    Governor Yusuf described the death as a tragic and irreplaceable loss to Kano State, his family, and the wider political community. 

    Yusuf prayed for Allah’s mercy on the deceased and for strength for his family to bear the painful loss. 

    This was disclosed in a statement the Governor signed on Wednesday, 8 January. 

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    The statement reads: “I received with deep sorrow the passing of Engr. Ahmad Ishaq Bunkure, the newly appointed Special Adviser to the Kano State Governor on Works, in Egypt. 

    “The death of Engr. Bunkure on Tuesday is a tragic and irreplaceable loss to Kano State, his family, and the wider political community. 

    “Engr. Bunkure was a dedicated professional whose expertise and contributions were expected to drive our administration’s vision for development. His loss is deeply felt. May the Almighty Allah grant him Jannatul Firdaus. Ameen.”

  • Kano Gov appeals for reduction of 2025 Hajj fare

    Kano Gov appeals for reduction of 2025 Hajj fare

    Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has appealed to the federal government to reduce this year’s Hajj fare considering the economic challenges faced by the citizens.

    Yusuf made the appeal during an event organised by the state Pilgrims Welfare Board to refund money sent by the Saudi Arabian Government due to the power outage during the 2023 Hajj operations.

    The governor, in a statement by his spokesman, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, commended the effort of the Saudi Arabian government for the  gesture and concern for humanity.

    The governor promised to send an official appreciation letter to the Saudi government, through their consulate in the Kano state.

    He also expressed appreciation to National Hajj Commission for its prudence and timely payment.

    Read Also: Kano Gov welcomes 150 foreign scholarship beneficiaries with ‘automatic employment’

    Yusuf expressed delight over the effort of Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board for the conduct of successful Hajj operations which was recognised as the best in the country.

    He urged them to maintain the good work in the future operations.

    Board Director General, Alhaji Laminu Rabiu Danbaffa said the total amount refunded to the state through the National Hajj Commission for disbursement to Pilgrims that performed 2023 Hajj was N375 million.

  • Yusuf swears in seven new commissioners, 13 advisers 

    Yusuf swears in seven new commissioners, 13 advisers 

    Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, on Monday, swore in seven new commissioners, twelve special advisers, and six permanent secretaries. 

    The swearing-in ceremony took place in the Ante Chamber of Government House, Kano. 

    The governor assigned portfolios to the new commissioners. 

    The former Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Shehu Wada Sagagi, was sworn in as the Commissioner for Investment, Commerce, and Industry. 

    Dr. Ismail Aliyu Danmaraya is the new Commissioner for Finance; Dr. Shehu Sani is the Commissioner for Power and Sustainable Energy; and Dr. Dahiru Hashim represents the Ministry of Environment. 

    Also sworn in were Abdulkadir Abdulsalam (Commissioner for Rural Development), Abdullahi Waiya (Information), and Wada Ma’aji (Public Procurement). 

    Governor Yusuf stated that the decision was aimed at strengthening his administration and enhancing good governance. 

    He charged the new commissioners to be dedicated and committed to their duties, emphasising that their appointments were made carefully to ensure the selection of capable individuals who would contribute to achieving good governance. 

    He reiterated his administration’s commitment to addressing numerous challenges, including improving infrastructure, education, and health, as well as enhancing women and youth empowerment, improving water supply, and boosting agriculture. 

    Read Also: 2025: Gov. Yusuf outlines development agenda

    The governor commended the Kano State House of Assembly for its cooperation and dedication to the development of the state. 

    He urged the appointees to live up to the expectations of the people by being committed and dedicated to achieving the set objectives. 

    He reassured the public of his administration’s commitment to fulfilling all campaign promises, calling on the new appointees to collaborate with their colleagues for optimal performance. 

    Governor Yusuf urged the new appointees to be guided by the fear of God, adding that making Kano great is their call to duty.