Kano State Government

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Kano State government has honored Dr. Aminu Magashi Garba for his exceptional contributions to the state’s development.

Dr. Magashi, who serves as the Technical Adviser to the Ministry of Women Affairs, Children and Disabled, as well as the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, is also the Chair of the AMG Foundation.

His efforts have been instrumental in advancing initiatives that support women and other vulnerable groups.

During the International Women’s Day celebration at the Kano State Government House on Monday, March 17, 2025, the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs, Children and Disabled, Hajiya Amina Abdullahi Sani, presented him with an Award of Excellence.

The recognition shows his dedication to improving the well-being of Kano State residents, particularly in the areas of health, humanitarian services, and poverty alleviation.

While presenting the award, Hajiya Amina Abdullahi Sani stated:

“Dr. Magashi has decades-long dedication to public service and commitment to improving the lives of Kano’s underserved communities. He led several reforms in the health sector leading to the establishment of so many agencies, notably PHIMA, KHETFUND KUSH, KNCDC to mention but few.”

She further acknowledged his role in shaping policies, saying:

“His strategic insights and leadership were also vital as Chairman of the health transition committee, where he collaborated closely with His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kano State, Engr Abba Kabir Yusuf to craft a transformative agenda for Kano State’s healthcare.”

Additionally, she presented his contributions to governance:

“He also led the technical committee which supported H.E. Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf to develop his campaign blueprint in 2022.”

Dr. Magashi’s recognition underscores his commitment to public service and his lasting impact on health and social welfare initiatives in Kano State.

By Uzair Adam 

Kano State Government has approved Friday, 28th February 2025, as the official date for the second-term vacation for all day and boarding public and private primary and post-primary schools in the state.  

This was disclosed in a statement issued by Balarabe Abdullahi Kiru, the Director of Public Enlightenment at the State Ministry of Education.  

According to the statement, “Parents and guardians of pupils and students in boarding schools are expected to convey their wards home by the early hours of Friday, 28th February 2025.”  

It further clarified that “boarding school pupils and students are to resume on Sunday, 6th April 2025, while day students are to resume on Monday, 7th April 2025.”  

The statement also quoted the Commissioner for Education, Dr Ali Haruna Abubakar Makoda, urging parents and guardians to comply with the resumption dates.  

“I urge all parents and guardians to adhere strictly to the resumption dates, as any student who fails to comply will face appropriate disciplinary action,” said Makoda.  

The commissioner appreciated the cooperation and support given to the ministry and wished the students and pupils a successful and hitch-free Ramadan holiday.

By Hussaini Ibrahim Sulaiman

Education is the bedrock of any progressive society, and in Kano State, a quiet revolution is unfolding under the leadership of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.

 Since assuming office, the governor has taken every step to rejuvenate the state’s education sector. 

His administration’s commitment to education is evident in its words and concrete actions, which continue to change lives. His administration has prioritised key reforms in infrastructure, teacher welfare, school enrollment, and vocational training. 

These initiatives have solidified his reputation as a leader who truly understands that Kano’s future rests on the shoulders of its young population.

Recognising the deep-rooted challenges facing Kano’s education system, Governor Yusuf declared a state of emergency in education. 

His administration swiftly addressed the dilapidated state of public schools, teacher shortages, and declining student enrollment. With a clear vision, the governor initiated reforms that have already begun yielding remarkable results.

Budgetary allocations reflect a leader’s priorities. In the 2024 budget, 29.9% of the total allocation was dedicated to education, far surpassing UNESCO’s recommended benchmark of 26%. 

Further demonstrating his unwavering commitment, the state has allocated 31% of its total 2025 budget to the education sector. 

With this substantial funding, the government has embarked on large-scale school renovations, procured essential learning materials, and paid outstanding teacher salaries. 

These initiatives restore public confidence in the education system and ensure that Kano’s children have the resources they need to succeed.

Public schools in Kano needed rehabilitation. The administration launched a massive school renovation project to upgradethousands of classrooms across the state. 

Over 80,000 three-seater desks have been provided, ensuring that 240,000 students no longer have to sit on bare floors. 

New classrooms have been built to tackle the issue of overcrowding. Schools that once faced challenges with insufficient facilities are now reaping the benefits of modern learning environments, enhancing the accessibility and effectiveness of education.

Kano State has long faced the challenge of out-of-school children. To tackle this, the government is constructing 130 new boys’ and girls’ schools to boost enrollment in the next academic session. 

Governor Yusuf’s administration has also launched an initiative to distribute 789,000 school uniforms to pupils in 7,092 public schools. 

At the flag-off of the distribution of over two million education materials—including textbooks, mats, and uniforms—the governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring that every child in Kano has access to quality education.

The state government is providing a monthly stipend of N20,000 to 40,000 needy girls to promote school enrolment, retention, and completion. 

This initiative specifically aims to ensure that more girls receive formal education, lower the dropout rate, and promote gender inclusivity in education.

A well-trained and motivated teacher is at the heart of any successful education system. Governor Yusuf has approved the permanent employment of 5,500 volunteer teachers under the Better Education Services Delivery for All (BESDA) initiative. 

He has also approved the promotion of over 20,500 primary and junior secondary school teachers.

This move boosts morale and is a strategic step toward retaining and attracting quality educators. By improving teacher welfare and providing capacity-building opportunities, the governor ensures that Kano’s students receive education from highly skilled and dedicated professionals. 

The administration has also cleared backlogs of unpaid teacher salaries and allowances, significantly boosting teacher motivation and improving classroom engagement and student performance.

To further support education, the government has spent N1.3 billion on paying National Examination Council (NECO) and National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) registration fees for 57,000 indigent students. 

This intervention has lifted a huge financial burden off struggling families and ensured that no student is denied access to secondary and technical education due to economic hardship.

Education extends beyond the classroom. The administration has revived 26 vocational and skills acquisition schools across the state. Institutions such as the Kano School of Informatics, Kano State Driving School, and Aliko Dangote Skills Acquisition Centre have been revamped to equip young people with practical skills.

The government plans to create over 63,000 jobs annually through the garment industry. By reopening garment manufacturing clusters in Kano’s 44 local government areas, thousands of young people will be empowered with tailoring and fashion design skills. This approach will provide an alternative pathway for youths who may not pursue conventional higher education.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s remarkable efforts in education have not gone unnoticed. During the 2024 World Teachers’ Day celebrations, the Nigeria Union of Teachers honored him with the Golden Award for Outstanding Performance in Education Reform. 

This accolade recognises his dedication to improving Kano’s education sector.

Under his leadership, Kano State is experiencing an educational renaissance. His administration’s policies, strategic investments, and people-centered approach have laid a strong foundation for a brighter future. 

The real impact of his reforms can be seen in the smiles of students who now have desks to sit on, the joy of teachers whose hard work is being rewarded, and the hope of parents who can now dream of a better future for their children.

Aiki Sai Me Shi—only the committed can achieve the task. Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has not only shown commitment but has also demonstrated visionary leadership, courage, and an unrelenting passion for education. Kano’s education sector is on an unstoppable trajectory of growth, and if the momentum is sustained, the state will soon be a shining example of educational excellence in Nigeria.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

A delegation led by Hon. Ibrahim Namadi, the state’s Commissioner of Transportation, recently embarked on a fact-finding mission to Lagos State. This initiative, endorsed by His Excellency Gov. Abba K. Yusuf, aims to learn from Lagos’s notable achievements in transportation.

The delegation comprised several key officials, including Hon. Aliyu Isa (Permanent Secretary), Bashir Ado Gaya (Director of Admin and General Services, Ministry of Transportation), Dr. Nura Ibrahim Hassan (Technical Advisor for Transport Policy and Planning), and Najeeb Mahmoud Abdussalam (Transport Specialist Consultant).

The team toured prominent facilities, including the Ikeja Bus Terminal, the Red Line Ikeja Station, and the Blue Line, to gain insights into their operations and management.

During the visit, Hon. Namadi praised Lagos State for its exemplary transportation system and expressed a strong desire to replicate similar successes in Kano, particularly through the establishment of a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system.

Hon. Namadi emphasised the importance of collaboration and pledged to work closely with the Lagos State government and the Lagos State Transport Management Authority (LAMATA) to achieve this ambitious goal.

By Muhammad Sulaiman

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has appointed Umar Farouk Ibrahim as the new Secretary to the State Government (SSG). The appointment was announced in a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Saturday.

Ibrahim, a seasoned administrator with over three decades of public service experience, will officially assume office on Monday, February 10, 2025. His selection is expected to strengthen the administrative framework of the current government and enhance policy implementation.

Throughout his career, Ibrahim has held key leadership positions, including serving as Permanent Secretary for Research, Evaluation, and Political Affairs from 2001 to 2015. He also briefly acted as SSG in 2013 and 2014, reflecting the trust placed in him by past administrations.

Ibrahim holds a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Political Science from Ahmadu Bello University, earned in 1985. He has also obtained several professional certificates that have further enriched his expertise in governance and administration.

Governor Yusuf expressed confidence in Ibrahim’s ability to contribute to the state’s development agenda, emphasizing the importance of experienced leadership in achieving sustainable progress.

By Muhammad Sulaiman

The Kano State Government has expressed interest in partnering with Al-Qalam University, Katsina, to sponsor students for postgraduate studies at the institution.

A government delegation, led by Professor Auwalu Halliru Arzai, visited the university on Monday, February 3, 2025, where they were received by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Armaya’u Umar Zango.

Speaking during the visit, Prof. Arzai highlighted the state government’s commitment under Governor Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf to advancing education by providing opportunities for indigenes to pursue higher degrees.

Prof. Arzai noted that Al-Qalam University’s reputation for academic excellence and holistic education made it a suitable choice for the partnership.

Discussions between both parties are ongoing, with plans to formalize the collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

By El-Yassar Ahmad

Kano State’s recent ₦2.5 billion expenditure on a mass wedding initiative has sparked widespread criticism for being a poor use of public funds. At a time when the state faces significant challenges in sectors such as power supply, education, healthcare, and transportation, many believe this substantial sum could have been better invested in addressing these critical needs.

While states like Lagos prioritise infrastructure and sustainable growth—evidenced by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s ₦3.5 billion investment in power generation—Kano’s leadership is drawing attention to what is seen as frivolous taxpayer spending. 

Many people, especially on social media, argue that such spending represents a missed opportunity to improve the lives of Kano’s citizens through long-term, impactful development.

This underscores a concerning trend of mismanagement and a lack of transparency that hinders progress in the state. Public resources ought to be invested in projects that meet the fundamental needs of the populace—healthcare, education, and essential services—rather than wasted on short-term initiatives that provide minimal enduring benefit.

It is high time for Kano’s leadership to reassess its priorities and ensure that public funds are used responsibly for the betterment of its citizens. Only through strategic investment in infrastructure and services can the state attain meaningful progress and enhance the quality of life for its people.

By Hussaini Ibrahim Sulaiman

In the bustling city-state of Kano, a silent revolution is taking place – one that may not capture the headlines every day, but which is certainly transforming the lives of countless residents.

At the heart of this change is the state governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, whose tireless focus on the health and welfare of Kano’s most vulnerable population has started to yield tangible, life-saving results.

When Governor Yusuf assumed office in May 2023, one of the first areas he addressed was the health sector, which had been severely neglected in the previous administration. Topmost among his priorities was the reinstatement of routine immunization services that had been abandoned for 18 months under the previous leadership.

This was not just a bureaucratic fix, but a critical step towards safeguarding the lives of newborns, pregnant women and other vulnerable groups who had been left exposed to preventable diseases.

The restoration of immunization services was, therefore, an immediate response to a looming crisis and a clear signal of the governor’s commitment to maternal and child health.

In addition to reviving routine healthcare services, Governor Yusuf also recognized the need for more infrastructure to support the state’s health system.

For instance, during the re-commissioning of the 86-bed Hasiya Bayero Paediatric Hospital, he declared free maternal healthcare services across the state.

The Hasiya Bayero Hospital, named after the mother of the late Emir of Kano, had been allegedly sold under the previous administration, despite consistent denials from the former government. Governor Yusuf lamented the hardship caused by the hospital’s closure, noting that it had forced Kano residents to seek paediatric care elsewhere at unaffordable costs.

Moreover, Governor Yusuf made it clear that his administration was committed to restoring the hospital’s services. “Our administration is dedicated to providing all the necessary support for a quality healthcare system in the state, including free maternal healthcare services,” he declared while commissioning the hospital.

Additionally, he emphasized that the hospital would offer nutritional services, immunization, research and training, and two-way referral services.

This commitment forms part of his broader plan to reduce high neonatal and infant morbidity and mortality rates, an issue that has plagued the state for years.

Furthermore, he underscored the importance of redeploying skilled medical personnel to run the hospital efficiently, reinforcing his government’s focus on health worker dedication and professional ethics.

In terms of healthcare infrastructure, Governor Yusuf’s focus is not limited to hospitals alone. As part of his digitalization agenda, he recently distributed 484 computers to the Apex Primary Healthcare Centres across all 44 local government areas.

This move is part of a larger initiative to ensure the efficient operation of healthcare facilities through technological upgrades, as well as a commitment to renovating several major hospitals, including Sir Muhammadu Sanusi, Hasiya Bayero, and Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital. Additionally, solar facilities were provided to key offices to ensure uninterrupted services.

This comprehensive upgrade of the healthcare infrastructure aims to ensure that every resident, regardless of their socio-economic status, has access to affordable and quality healthcare.

As a result, Governor Yusuf’s administration has allocated substantial funds in the 2025 budget to continue this renovation work, targeting hundreds of secondary and primary healthcare facilities across the state.

Furthermore, Governor Yusuf’s health-focused vision also tackles another major issue facing Kano State: malnutrition. As part of his efforts to improve maternal and child health, the Governor committed N500 million in counterpart funding to UNICEF for nutrition initiatives. Furthermore, during the flag-off of the second Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH) Week, he announced an additional N170 million to renovate and upgrade malnutrition treatment and referral centres.

These funds, alongside other initiatives such as the provision of essential healthcare services during MNCH Week, are part of the Governor’s broader strategy to combat child killer diseases and improve access to life-saving healthcare services.

In addition, Governor Yusuf’s commitment to improving the health of Kano’s children is also reflected in his efforts to reduce maternal and child mortality, foster sustainable development, and ensure equitable access to healthcare for all residents.

This continued investment in the health sector highlights the state government’s dedication to addressing critical health challenges and enhancing the quality of life for its citizens.

Beyond infrastructure and immediate healthcare services, Governor Yusuf’s administration has launched the Abba Care Initiative, a free health insurance program aimed at over 300,000 vulnerable residents, including pregnant women, the elderly, and people living with sickle cell anaemia.

This bold program is a key component of his effort to achieve universal healthcare coverage and make quality health services available to all citizens, regardless of their socio-economic status. In this regard, the Abba Care Initiative, backed by the Kano State Contributory Health Management Agency, represents a transformative step towards creating a more equitable and accessible healthcare system for the people of Kano.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s quiet yet powerful leadership is remaking the health landscape of Kano.

His administration’s unwavering commitment to improving healthcare access for the state’s most vulnerable populations underscores a deep understanding of what it means to govern with compassion, vision and urgency.

Notably, the Governor’s efforts in addressing health issues such as immunization, sickle cell anaemia, malnutrition, and maternal and child health not only respond to immediate challenges but also lay the foundation for a healthier and more prosperous future for all residents of Kano State. His legacy of service to the people, with a focus on healthcare, will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact for generations to come.

Governor Yusuf’s work represents more than just reforms – it marks a true revolution in the healthcare sector that will resonate across the state, benefiting not just the current generation, but future generations as well. Ultimately, his leadership offers a model of governance that prioritizes the well-being of the people and is poised to transform Kano into a healthier, more equitable society.

#AbbaIsWorking

Ibrahim is with the Triumph and can be reached at Hussainiibrahim470@gmail.com

By Uzair Adam 

“I have not been paid for over six months now. I have two wives and ten children. I had to feed them with sicklepod (Tafasa in Hausa) for breakfast before I left home this morning,” said Malam Muntari Yakub (not his real name), an employee of the Refuse Management and Sanitation Board (REMASAB), in a shaky and traumatised tone.

Malam Yakubu’s experience is similar to that of many REMASAB staff who have not received their salaries for over six months due to outstanding debts owed by the Kano State government. 

The situation has made life even more difficult for them amid the soaring economic crisis in the country.

The workers, whose duties include sweeping streets and evacuating refuse, told our reporter that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s current administration has paid them only four times since he took office more than a year ago.

They lamented that their situation had worsened due to the nine months of unpaid salaries they were still owed from the previous administration of Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who left office in 2023.

Yakubu recounted his distressing experience amidst the salary stoppage and the threat of hunger, “I am not a rabbit, and none of my family members are, but we eat sicklepod (Tafasa) to stave off hunger and avoid death. I had to gather some this morning for breakfast before leaving home.”

“Our salary is just ten thousand naira. You can imagine what we can buy with this meagre amount, especially with the rising cost of food. Despite struggling with this small amount, the government has left us stranded without pay for over six months,” Malam Yakubu said.

Another worker, who requested anonymity, revealed how his wife left him due to the enormous debt he had accumulated and his inability to provide for his family since his salary was stopped, exacerbated by the current economic situation in the country.

He said, “It is painful to say that my wife left me because of this situation I am in today. No matter how small the salary, it’s better to cover some of your family’s needs than none at all. After she left, the landlord also evicted me because I couldn’t pay the rent.”

The man added that despite the demanding nature of their job, most of them have to walk to their assigned streets to work, and no equipment is provided for them.

Buy your own equipment or quit the job

The workers who spoke to our reporter alleged that, despite several months of unpaid salaries, no equipment is provided for them. When they complained, their supervisors threatened them, saying they should either buy the equipment themselves or quit if they couldn’t afford it.

Another worker, who preferred to remain unnamed, said, “I had to borrow money to buy this broom you see in my hand. When I complained, my supervisor told me to buy it myself or stay home until REMASAB provides one.”

A woman with small children at home under her care said the situation at REMASAB is shocking, especially considering that one has to buy a broom. “This worsens our debt because we have to borrow money to eat and buy brooms,” she added.

Confusion over new workers receiving salaries

However, there is confusion among the workers following reports that new employees hired by Governor Yusuf after he assumed office in 2023 have been receiving their salaries.

The workers complained that despite the outstanding salary debt owed to them by the Kano State government, the new workers are paid every month, making them wonder if they are still considered employees.

“The new workers are also working with us. We call them ‘Askarawan Kwankwasiya,’ and you will see them wearing red caps or hijabs. We were shocked when we learned they are being paid monthly because we thought we might all have been sacked,” they said.

Workers remind Governor Yusuf of his promises

The workers passionately pleaded with Governor Yusuf to come to their aid, as they also had families who depended on them. 

They reminded the governor of his promises: “When he first came into power, there were rumours that we were all sacked. 

But the governor called us to a meeting at the Coronation Hall of the Government House. He told us that he had not sacked us. 

He promised to resolve our issues and said we would soon be paid. He told us that if the accountant had not travelled out of the country, we would have received our salaries that month.

“However, months later, we have yet to receive any payment. We don’t know if the accountant is still out of town. 

“We want to call on the governor to remember his promises, including doubling our salaries, and come to our rescue.”

When contacted about the situation, Ahmadu Haruna Danzago, the Managing Director of REMASAB, declined to comment, stating he was not the appropriate person to address the inquiries. 

“You should contact the Director of Operations, as he is responsible for answering these questions,” Danzago said.

Workers undergoing biometric 

Addressing the questions, Ibrahim Nasir, the Director of Operations at REMASAB, responded to some concerns.

He clarified that the organisation is currently working to resolve issues that have led to delays in worker payments. 

Nasir explained that a new biometric system had been introduced to centralise monthly salaries, but some workers had difficulties completing the biometric process. 

Regarding the alleged outstanding debt of seven months, Nasir disputed this claim, stating, “They owe us only three months, not seven. 

Some workers were previously disengaged but were later reinstated by the Kano State Government.”

Nasir indicated he was unaware of the allegations that workers were compelled to buy their own materials. 

He explained, “We typically purchase materials in bulk, and we have recently exhausted our stock. We are in the process of providing a new supply of materials.”

By Uzair Adam

Kano State Government has announced a relaxation of the curfew, which will now be in effect from 6 AM to 6 PM.

This decision was revealed by Kano Police Commissioner Dogo Salman following a joint security meeting with Governor Abba Yusuf at the Government House.

Commissioner Salman highlighted the government’s ongoing commitment to maintaining peace and order while gradually lifting restrictions to allow residents to resume normal activities.

The adjustment in curfew hours reflects the improved security situation and the efforts of security agencies in restoring normalcy to the state.

Governor Yusuf urged citizens to cooperate with law enforcement and adhere to the revised curfew regulations to ensure continued safety and stability in Kano.