IN a momentous celebration of excellence, Kano State Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf was on Tuesday,8th, April 2025 conferred with the award of Outstanding Leadership Governor of the Year 2024 for education.
This prestigious award, presented by Leadership Newspaper, no doubt, is a recognition of the governor’s strong commitment to education and human capital development in Kano State.
The ceremony which was conducted under the chairmanship of the Vice President , Senator Kashim Shetima took place at the banquet hall in the State House, Abuja, amidst a tumultuous crowd was indeed a vindication of Governor Yusuf’s dedication to transforming the education sector.
Moreover, this honour has been truly remarkable and has truly turned him into a real visionary leader. It is on record that within a span of barely two years, his administration has made significant strides in revitalizing the education sector, which had suffered years of neglect.
As a way of showing concern for the sector, the Governor, firstly declare a state-of-emergency on education a policy that prompted all and sundry to wake up from the hitherto slumber.
This pronouncement was matched with action which could be attested to, by allocating 31% of the state’s annual budget to education, surpassing even the UNESCO benchmark. With this development he became the only governor who allocated this much to the education sector. This spectacular action has shown his deep commitment to this critical sector.
For the avoidance of doubt, here are some of the notable achievements of Governor Yusuf’s administration.
– *Massive School Renovations*: Bringing new life to educational institutions across the state
– *Provision of Learning Materials*: Equipping students with the necessary tools for success
– *Recruitment of Teachers*: Strengthening the education system with qualified professionals
– *Comprehensive Education Recovery Plan*: A roadmap for sustainable growth and development
Upon receiving the award, Governor Yusuf expressed his gratitude, describing the honor as “a great recognition of our efforts”
He dedicated the award to vulnerable children across the state, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to deepening reforms in education.
Reacting to the award, Katsina State Governor and Chairman of the Northwest Governors Forum, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has extolled the virtues of Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf following the recognition at the prestigious 17th Leadership Newspaper Awards held in Abuja.
Governor Radda in a statement signed by Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, the Chief Press Secretary, particularly hailed Kano State Governor, , who was named Leadership Governor of the Year 2024 for Education which said was a recognition of his bold reforms that have significantly repositioned the education sector in the state.
“These prestigious accolades bestowed upon my distinguished colleagues symbolize the exceptional quality of leadership, governance, and unwavering commitment to service that characterize the Northwest region,” Governor Radda remarked.
The Chairman Northwest Governors’ Forum, stated that the recognition brings honour not only to the people of Kano state but to the entire region.
Governor Radda urged the award recipient to maintain the momentum of excellence and continue implementing initiatives that will yield lasting impact and sustainable development for their people.
“These feats should serve as further motivation to never lower your gaze in the pursuit of transformative governance. The people of Northwest Nigeria deserve nothing less than your continued dedication to programs and policies with long-term developmental impacts,” Governor Radda added.
On behalf of the government, the people of Katsina State and Northwest region, Governor Radda extended best wishes to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
Perhaps this recognition highlights Governor Yusuf’s effective leadership and his tireless efforts to improve the lives of Kano State’s citizens. As he continues to push for excellence, his focus on education and human capital development will undoubtedly shape a brighter future for generations to come.
- Azare, a veteran journalist and former Chairman of the Kano State NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel, writes from Kano.