Politics

Tinubu Hails Kano Governor at 63 as Defection to APC Nears

Published by admin on January 5th, 2026.

Tinubu Hails Kano Governor at 63 as Defection to APC Nears

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended birthday greetings to Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, praising his leadership qualities and record in public service as the governor marks his 63rd birthday.

The message, released on Sunday through the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, came amid heightened political anticipation over Governor Yusuf’s expected switch from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Originally scheduled to coincide with his birthday on Monday, January 5, 2026, the planned defection has now been shifted to January 12 to allow for broader consultations.

In his congratulatory note, President Tinubu commended Governor Yusuf for what he described as his integrity, humility, and dedication to serving the people. He highlighted the governor’s administrative experience in Kano State, noting that his years overseeing key ministries had equipped him for the infrastructural reforms currently unfolding across the state.

According to the President, Yusuf’s administration has prioritised urban renewal, bridge construction, and road expansion, including the development of five-kilometre road networks in each of Kano’s local government areas. Tinubu also acknowledged progress in the education sector, pointing to improved student performance in NECO examinations following the governor’s declaration of a state of emergency in education.

Describing Kano as a historic hub of progressive politics in northern Nigeria, Tinubu said the Yusuf-led government reflects the legacy of grassroots empowerment and social justice championed by the late Mallam Aminu Kano, particularly in addressing the welfare of the Talakawa.

Meanwhile, political developments in Kano indicate strong internal support for Yusuf’s planned move to the APC. Reports suggest that at least 25 of the 27 NNPP lawmakers in the Kano State House of Assembly, including Speaker Yusuf Falgore, have endorsed the defection, alongside several local government chairmen.

A source familiar with the matter disclosed that the governor recently sought additional time during a meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima in Abuja to consult further with remaining stakeholders who are yet to align with the decision.

The impending defection has, however, deepened tensions between Governor Yusuf and his political mentor, NNPP national leader Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, who has publicly expressed dissatisfaction with the move. Kwankwaso warned that losing the Kano governorship would weaken the Kwankwasiyya movement’s last executive foothold, suggesting that Yusuf should relinquish the office if he chooses to defect.

Echoing similar concerns, NNPP state chairman Hashimu Dungurawa urged the governor to remain with the party, arguing that switching allegiance would undermine the mandate given to him by voters.

On the other hand, Kano APC chairman Abdullahi Abbas has formally welcomed Yusuf, assuring that the ruling party is prepared to embrace him in the interest of unity, development, and political stability in the state.

Governor Yusuf remains the NNPP’s only sitting governor nationwide. His eventual defection to the APC could significantly reshape Kano’s political landscape and potentially affect the 2027 governorship ambitions of Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, who is widely believed to be eyeing the APC ticket.