Celebrating a life of purpose: Governor Yusuf at 63 and the promise of people-centred governance
By Mustapha Muhammad
January 5, 2026, marks the 63rd birthday of His Excellency, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, Executive Governor of Kano State, a milestone that invites not just celebration, but sober reflection on a life defined by service, resilience and an unwavering commitment to the people.
It is a moment to pause and take stock of a leadership journey that continues to shape the social, economic and moral fabric of Kano State through deliberate, people-centred governance.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s story is one of steady growth and quiet determination. From his childhood through his formative years, he exhibited traits that would later define his public life: discipline, empathy and a strong sense of responsibility. These qualities found expression during his years as a dedicated civil servant, where he learned firsthand the mechanics of governance, public accountability and the importance of institutions in driving development.
Those early experiences laid a solid foundation for his eventual foray into politics, not as an end in itself but as a platform to serve on a broader scale.
His journey into partisan politics and eventual emergence as Governor of Kano State was neither accidental nor effortless. It was the culmination of years of preparation, engagement with the grassroots and a clear vision for a more inclusive and prosperous Kano. Upon assuming office, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf made it clear that governance under his watch would be anchored on the needs of the people, especially the vulnerable, the underserved and those long excluded from the dividends of democracy.
Across Kano State today, well-meaning citizens continue to witness and appreciate his giant strides in key sectors. In agriculture, his administration has pursued policies aimed at boosting productivity, empowering farmers, and strengthening food security, recognising agriculture as both a livelihood and an economic backbone for the state. In healthcare, renewed attention to service delivery, infrastructure and access reflects a leadership that understands health as a fundamental human right, not a privilege.
Education, a pillar of sustainable development, has also received purposeful focus. Through prioritising learning environments, teacher welfare and access to education, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf is investing in the future of Kano and its children and youth. Similarly, his commitment to good governance and security underscores an understanding that development cannot thrive without transparency, trust and a safe environment for citizens to live and work.
One of the most visible hallmarks of his administration is the provision of infrastructure through an ambitious urban renewal initiative. Across urban centres, renewed roads, public facilities and capital projects stand as testaments to his vision for human and capital development.
These efforts are not merely cosmetic; they are strategic interventions designed to stimulate economic activity, improve quality of life and restore Kano’s historic status as a centre of commerce and culture.
Perhaps most emblematic of Governor Yusuf’s inclusive leadership is his bold decision to clear decade-long backlogs of gratuities owed to pensioners and ex-councillors. This act, carried out with evident passion and urgency, transcends political boundaries. It sends a powerful message: that service to Kano is honoured, dignity in retirement matters, and governance must be humane. By prioritising the welfare of Kano people across the board, he has reaffirmed that leadership is, above all, a moral obligation.
As he clocks 63, the people of Kano State celebrate not just the passing of another year, but a life devoted to service and a leadership defined by empathy, courage, and results. Kano rejoices with His Excellency, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, and prays for many more prosperous years of good health, renewed strength and steadfast dedication to the service of humanity and the continued progress of Kano State.
Mustapha Muhammad is the Chief Press Secretary to Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, writes from Ancient City of Kano.
