Mustapha Rabiu Kwankwaso, son of former Kano State governor and 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has resigned his position as Kano State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development.
Kwankwaso announced his resignation on Monday through a statement posted on his official Facebook account. With the announcement, he also stepped down as a member of the Kano State Executive Council.
In the statement, Kwankwaso said the decision was taken with a “heavy heart,” as he expressed gratitude to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for giving him the opportunity to serve in the state government.
“It is with a heavy heart that I announce my resignation as Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Youth and Sports Development and member of the Kano State Executive Council,” he said.
He thanked the governor for the confidence reposed in him and noted that his time in office gave him valuable experience and lessons in public service.
“I want to express my deepest gratitude to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for the opportunity to serve the great people of Kano State,” Kwankwaso stated. “I have cherished the experiences and lessons gained while serving, and I appreciate the trust placed in me.”
Although he did not state the specific reasons for his resignation, the move comes at a time of major political changes within the Kano State Government. These developments followed Governor Yusuf’s recent resignation from the NNPP and his return to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Governor Yusuf, who was elected on the NNPP platform, had close political ties with Senator Kwankwaso. However, his recent exit from the party has altered the political balance in Kano and led to uncertainty among NNPP loyalists holding government positions.
Mustapha Kwankwaso was appointed Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development shortly after Governor Yusuf assumed office. As commissioner, he was responsible for overseeing youth programmes, sports development, and initiatives aimed at engaging young people across the state.
Kano State has one of the largest youth populations in Nigeria, with many young people involved in sports, small businesses, and skills acquisition. The Ministry of Youth and Sports Development plays a key role in providing opportunities, training, and platforms for youth empowerment.
During his tenure, Kwankwaso was involved in efforts to revive grassroots sports and support youth-focused programmes. While his statement did not highlight specific achievements, he expressed hope that the sectors he oversaw would continue to receive attention from the government.
“As I resign, I pray that the youth of Kano State will continue to receive the attention and support they deserve,” he said. “I hope for the best for our sports development programmes and initiatives, and I am confident that they will flourish in the years to come.”
He also stressed the importance of continued investment in youth empowerment and sports, describing them as critical to the future of the state.
Kwankwaso concluded his message by offering prayers for Kano State, its people, and its leadership.
“May Allah (SWT) continue to shower His blessings on our beloved Kano State,” he said. “I wish the government and people of Kano State all the best.”
The resignation has added another layer to the fast-changing political situation in Kano State. In recent weeks, the state has witnessed major defections, including Governor Yusuf’s return to the APC along with several lawmakers, members of the House of Representatives, and all local government chairmen.
These developments have weakened the NNPP’s influence in the state government and raised questions about the future of its remaining members in public office. Analysts say more resignations or defections could follow as political actors reposition themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Kano is one of Nigeria’s most politically significant states due to its large population and voting strength. Any major political shift in the state often has national implications, especially in presidential and governorship elections.
Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso remains a strong political figure in Kano and across the country. His Kwankwasiyya movement has a loyal following, particularly among young people and urban voters. However, the recent changes within the state government may test the movement’s influence.
So far, the Kano State Government has not issued an official statement on Mustapha Kwankwaso’s resignation or announced a replacement for the position of Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development.