Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has been recognized with two prestigious international awards—New Telegraph’s Governor of the Year in Educational Development and African Leadership Magazine’s Governor of the Year 2024.
This recognizes his transformative leadership and steadfast commitment to education and infrastructure development.
A delegation led by Usman Bala Muhammad, Special Adviser to the Governor on State Affairs and former Head of Service, travelled to Lagos and Morocco to receive the awards on behalf of the Governor on February 21st and 22nd, 2024, respectively.
The awards were later presented to the Governor at a special event held in the Ante Chamber of Government House, Kano.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, highlighted that the recognitions celebrate Governor Yusuf’s strategic investments in educational infrastructure and his visionary approach to urban development, positioning Kano as a rapidly growing megacity.
In his acceptance remarks, Governor Yusuf expressed deep gratitude to New Telegraph and the African Leadership Award selection committee, chaired by former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete, for recognizing his administration’s strides in governance.
He also congratulated fellow distinguished awardees, including Ugandan Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja and Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina, for their outstanding contributions in their respective fields.
Governor Yusuf stated that these honours validate his administration’s reforms, particularly in the education sector, which remains a cornerstone of Kano’s socioeconomic transformation. He noted that such recognition serves as a powerful motivation to sustain efforts toward good governance, transparency, and impactful leadership.
In addition to these honours, the Centre for Qur’anic Recitation of Nigeria awarded the Governor the title Garkuwan Mahaddan Alkurani (Shield of Qur’anic Memorizers) in recognition of his contributions to the development of Qur’anic recitation and memorization.
Further accolades include an Award of Recognition from the Proprietor of Shehu Uba Sharada Group of Schools and Jumu’at Mosque, as well as the honorary title Khadimul Ummah (Servant of the People), bestowed by the Qur’anic Memorizers and Learners Foundation for his compassion and inclusive approach to governance.
Governor Yusuf sincerely thanked all the award presenters and reaffirmed his dedication to improving the lives of the people of Kano. His administration remains committed to driving progress and ensuring a brighter future for the state and its citizens.
