In a sweeping political move, Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has announced a major reshuffling of his cabinet, which includes the removal of key officials and the reallocation of portfolios to streamline governance and boost administrative performance.
The changes, which took immediate effect on Thursday, mark the first significant reshuffle of the governor’s administration since he assumed office. According to a statement issued by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, the reshuffle aims to bring about a more effective and efficient state government.
Key Officials Removed from Their Positions
Among the most notable changes is the removal of two top officials: the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Abdullahi Baffa Bichi, and the Chief of Staff (COS), Alh. Shehu Wada Sagagi. Dr. Bichi’s removal was attributed to health grounds, while Alh. Sagagi’s office was scrapped altogether. These changes have sent ripples through the political landscape of Kano State.
Governor Yusuf’s spokesperson, Mr. Sanusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, emphasized that the decision was made to ensure optimum performance of the state executive council, which will ultimately help deliver better services to the people of Kano.
The reshuffle, according to the statement, is part of the governor’s ongoing efforts to realign the administration and ensure that key positions are filled by capable leaders who can drive the state’s socio-economic development.
Governor’s Commitment to Efficient Governance
Governor Yusuf explained that the reshuffle was necessary to enhance the overall administrative performance of the state government and to implement a more strategic political approach. “This move is aimed at strengthening the state’s machinery to deliver the dividends of democracy to the good people of Kano,” he said.
The governor’s remarks reflect his commitment to improving governance and addressing the challenges facing the state. Since taking office, Governor Yusuf has been focused on implementing policies that prioritize public welfare and development, and this reshuffle is seen as part of that broader agenda.
Key Figures Retained in the New Cabinet
While several officials have been removed or reassigned, some prominent members of the cabinet have retained their positions. Notable among them is the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Haruna Isa Dederi, who continues in his role, as well as the Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Danjuma Mahmoud, and the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abubakar Labaran.
Other officials who have kept their positions include the Commissioner for Land and Physical Planning, Hon. Abduljabbar Mohammed Umar, the Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Hon. Musa Suleiman Shannon, and the Commissioner for Works and Housing, Engr. Marwan Ahmad.
The retention of these key figures suggests that Governor Yusuf values continuity in critical sectors such as health, agriculture, and infrastructure, areas that are vital to the development of Kano State.
Cabinet Members Reassigned to New Roles
In addition to the removals, several cabinet members have been reassigned to new roles as part of the reshuffle. The Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdulssalam, has been moved from the Ministry of Local Government to the Ministry of Higher Education. This change is seen as an attempt to tap into the deputy governor’s potential in the area of educational development.
Similarly, Hon. Mohammad Tajo Usman, who was previously in charge of the Ministry of Science and Technology, has now been assigned to the Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. This move is likely aimed at strengthening local governance and ensuring that the state’s administrative structure operates more smoothly.
Dr. Yusuf Ibrahim Kofar Mata, who previously handled the Ministry of Higher Education, has been shifted to the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation. This reassignment is expected to enhance the state’s capacity in driving technological advancements and innovation.
