GOVERNOR Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has revealed that he personally funded parts of the construction at Northwest University during his time as Commissioner of Works under the administration of Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso.
Speaking during the Second Combined Convocation Ceremony of the university, Governor Yusuf described the event as a deeply personal moment and a powerful symbol of sacrifice and commitment to educational development in Kano.
“Because of my zeal to make sure Northwest University comes into existence, I used my personal money to build some parts of the university,” he said.
“I didn’t want construction to stop. But sadly, when we left office, the administration that followed abandoned the project.”
Governor Yusuf lamented the state of neglect the university suffered after his tenure ended, citing halted academic activity, unpaid salaries, and declining student performance.
But since assuming office in 2023, Yusuf says his administration has resumed construction, paid off salary arrears, and revived abandoned projects.
“We now pay ₦423 million monthly in salaries over ₦4.4 billion annually,” he disclosed.
“Contractors are back on site. Every abandoned project is being reactivated.”
He also fulfilled a major campaign promise by restoring the original name of the institution.
“We formed the committee that created this university during the Kwankwaso era, and we named it Northwest University.
The name was changed, but we have now corrected that. From today, graduates will proudly bear the name of Northwest University alumni.”
Highlighting his commitment to revitalising education, Yusuf noted that the 2025 Kano State budget allocates 31.1% to education, surpassing UNESCO’s 25% recommendation.
Additionally, he announced the resumption of local and foreign scholarship schemes, alongside the clearing of ₦700 million in outstanding foreign tuition debts for Kano students.
“This convocation is not just about certificates,” he said.
“It’s about the revival of a legacy. It’s about vision, sacrifice, and the future of our youth.”
The convocation also featured the conferment of an honorary Doctor of Education (Honoris Causa) on Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, recognising his foundational role in establishing the university.
“I am proud to be part of this journey first as a builder, later as a servant, and now as governor,” Yusuf added.