Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has responded to the growing political backlash surrounding his recent cabinet reshuffle. The reshuffle saw significant changes, including the removal of the Chief of Staff, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), and five commissioners.
Speaking to the press at the Government House, Governor Yusuf dismissed the insinuations that the reshuffle was politically motivated. He firmly stated that the move was made with the best interests of the people of Kano at heart.
“This reshuffle was done in good faith,” Governor Yusuf emphasised. “It was not aimed at undermining anyone but to strengthen the administration for the benefit of the people.”
The reshuffle, which has sparked heated political debate, came as a surprise to many, especially since some well-known figures within the government lost their positions. The Governor, however, reassured the public that the changes were necessary to reinvigorate the government and fulfill the promises made to the people of Kano during the election campaign.
“It’s important to note that these changes are not personal. They are about ensuring that our policies are effectively implemented,” he added.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, the Governor further explained the rationale behind the reshuffle. He highlighted the urgency of delivering on the administration’s campaign promises and the need for fresh energy in the government.
Governor Yusuf also made it clear that those removed from the cabinet would not be left behind. Instead, they would be given other roles within the administration.
“We are not dismissing anyone permanently,” the Governor clarified. “Those affected by the reshuffle will be reassigned to other important positions. This is about ensuring that the system works more efficiently.”
The reshuffle saw the appointment of seven new commissioners, who have already been screened and approved by the state assembly. These new appointees are expected to bring fresh ideas and energy to the administration, helping drive the state’s social and infrastructural development.
Governor Yusuf stressed that with these changes, the cabinet would be better equipped to meet the demands of governance and to push forward the state’s development agenda. He also reassured the public that the new commissioners would be introduced in the next executive council meeting, with their portfolios to be revealed in due course.
“These changes are necessary to ensure that we are on track to deliver the dividends of democracy that we promised the people of Kano,” Yusuf said. “Time is of the essence, and we need to make quick, effective decisions.”
Although some critics have voiced concerns over the timing and the nature of the reshuffle, Governor Yusuf remained steadfast in his defence of the decision. He urged the public to focus on the long-term goals of the administration rather than the short-term political consequences.
“We are not here for personal interests,” he stated. “Our focus is on the future of Kano. The changes we have made are all aimed at speeding up progress and achieving the goals we set out to accomplish.”
Political analysts have suggested that the reshuffle could have been influenced by various internal factors, including the need to address growing public discontent over the pace of governance. However, Governor Yusuf remains confident that the changes will lead to a stronger, more effective government.
“This is about the people of Kano,” he reiterated. “We will continue to serve them with dedication and integrity.”
As the new commissioners settle into their roles, all eyes will be on the next executive council meeting, where their full portfolios will be announced. The reshuffle has certainly set the stage for a fresh chapter in the state’s political landscape, with Governor Yusuf promising that more changes will come if necessary to keep the government on track.
“We are committed to ensuring that Kano moves forward. That is what matters most,” Governor Yusuf concluded.
