Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has been recognized with two highly esteemed international awards, first New Telegraph’s “Governor of the Year in Educational Development” and African Leadership Magazine’s “Governor of the Year 2024
This is in acknowledgement of his transformative leadership and unwavering commitment to education and infrastructural development.
A delegation led by Alhaji 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 profound gratitude to New Telegraph Newspaper and the African Leadership Award selection committee, chaired by former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete, for recognizing his administration’s strides in governance.
He also extended congratulations to other distinguished awardees, including Ugandan Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja and Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina, for their outstanding contributions in their respective fields.
Governor Yusuf emphasized that these honours reaffirm the significance of his administration’s reforms, particularly in the education sector, which remains a cornerstone for 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 the aforementioned honours, the Centre for Quranic 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 expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all the presenters of these awards 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.