Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has defended his controversial switch to the All Progressives Congress, APC, describing the move as a calculated political step taken in the supreme interest of Kano’s over 15 million citizens rather than a capitulation to the forces of federal might.
The governor made his position clear when he mounted the podium at the Sani Abacha Stadium before a sea of party faithful who had converged on the venue for the 2026 APC Grand Rally.
Yusuf argued that a state of Kano’s demographic weight and economic relevance had everything to lose by remaining estranged from the corridors of federal decision-making, maintaining that his defection from the New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP, was the most responsible choice available to him as a sitting governor committed to delivering tangible progress.
“It is about placing Kano in a position where it can fully participate in national development and secure a better future for its citizens. This is not about personal ambition. It is about responsibility to the people of this state,” he told the crowd.
His media aide, Sunusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, subsequently confirmed the governor’s remarks in a statement made available to journalists.
On the administration of President Bola Tinubu, Yusuf was unequivocal as he threw the full weight of his administration behind the Renewed Hope Agenda, contending that the ambitious economic programme being prosecuted from Abuja could only translate into grassroots impact if state governments actively championed its execution at home.
“With the support of our great party and the cooperation of the Federal Government, Kano State is better positioned to move forward with confidence and stability,” he assured.
Yusuf used the occasion to publicly acknowledge the attendance of Vice President Kashim Shettima alongside the governors of Jigawa, Sokoto, Kaduna, Katsina, Borno, Yobe, and Plateau states, expressing gratitude for what he characterised as a powerful show of northern solidarity.
He also paid tribute to former APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, and incumbent Kano APC Chairman, Abdullahi Abbas, whose presence he said affirmed the unity of purpose now binding the party’s leadership in the state.
Addressing the gathering, APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, held up the impressive crowd as proof of an energised and battle-ready party structure in Kano.
“The turnout today demonstrates that Kano APC members are united, enthusiastic, and committed to advancing the party’s agenda and supporting President Tinubu’s vision,” he remarked.