Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has explained that his decision to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) was driven by the need to strategically position Kano within the federal political framework to accelerate development.
The governor made the remarks on Monday while addressing a massive crowd at the 2026 Grand Rally held at Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano, according to a statement by his spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa.
Yusuf said Kano, being a large and strategically significant state, cannot afford to remain politically disconnected from the centre.
“It is about placing Kano in a position to fully participate in national development and secure a better future for its people. This is not about personal ambition, but a responsibility to our citizens,” he stated.
The governor stressed the importance of Kano actively engaging with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that the reforms require committed governance to deliver tangible benefits.
“With the support of our great party and cooperation from the Federal Government, Kano State is better positioned to move forward with confidence and stability,” Yusuf added.
He also expressed appreciation to Vice President Kashim Shettima and governors from Jigawa, Sokoto, Kaduna, Katsina, Borno, Yobe, and Plateau states for attending the rally and showing support for his administration.
Yusuf further commended the former APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, Kano APC Chairman Abdullahi Abbas, and lawmakers at both state and national levels for their solidarity, describing their presence as a reflection of unity and shared commitment to political stability and sustainable development in Kano.
APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, urged party stakeholders to back the governor, praising the impressive turnout of leaders and supporters.
“The turnout today shows that Kano APC members are united, enthusiastic, and committed to advancing the party’s agenda while supporting President Tinubu’s vision,” he said.
In separate remarks, Ganduje, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Abbas, ALGON Chairperson Hajiya Sa’adatu Yushau Soja, Alasan Ado Doguwa, and other lawmakers pledged full support to the governor and the party in Kano.
The rally, which drew thousands of party members and well-wishers, marked a new chapter in Kano politics, with analysts describing it as a decisive step to integrate the state more effectively into national governance and development efforts.
Yusuf reiterated that the success of his administration depends on cohesive leadership, strategic alignment with the federal government, and collaboration among political leaders across party lines.
The event concluded with a reaffirmation of Kano APC members’ commitment to advancing the party’s agenda and ensuring the state fully benefits from federal programmes and investments.
Yusuf formally resigned from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in January, following a visit to President Tinubu at the State House, citing “deepening internal crises” and “prolonged leadership disputes” within the party as reasons for his defection.
His move reflects a broader trend in recent months, as several governors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), including Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Peter Mbah (Enugu), Douye Diri (Bayelsa), Agbu Kefas (Taraba), Siminalayi Fubara (Rivers), and Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), have also joined the APC.