The National Forum of Kano Indigene Lawyers has called for more national and international recognition for Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, citing what they described as his “resilient leadership” and “emotional intelligence” in the face of political tension and ongoing governance challenges.
The group, through a press statement issued by its National Coordinator, Usman Imam Tudun Wizirchi, lauded Governor Yusuf for what they termed a transformative style of governance, which has recently earned him a string of prestigious awards both locally and internationally.
“In just one week, Governor Yusuf has been honored by Leadership Newspapers in Abuja, Vanguard Newspapers in Lagos, and African Heritage Concept in Morocco. These awards are not only well-deserved, they are a validation of his people-centered approach to governance,” Tudun Wizirchi said.
According to the group, the Governor’s handling of the recent Sallah Durbar controversy—stemming from the ongoing Emirship tussle—showcased extraordinary restraint and maturity. The lawyers allege that there was a calculated attempt to use the situation to incite unrest and potentially trigger a state of emergency in the state.
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“Even in the face of provocation, Governor Yusuf remained calm and focused,” Tudun Wizirchi stated. “That level of emotional resilience deserves another gold medal. He never gave in to pressure or retaliated—he simply led.”
The Forum particularly highlighted the Governor’s allocation of 31% of Kano’s annual budget to the education sector, surpassing the UNESCO benchmark and reversing years of what they termed “gross neglect” under the previous administration.
“The Leadership Governor of the Year 2024 award specifically commended Yusuf’s reforms in the education sector,” the statement noted. “He is repositioning Kano for sustainable development through strong investments in human capital.”
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The Vanguard Newspapers also honored Governor Yusuf in Lagos with its Governor of the Year 2024 award in the Good Governance category, acknowledging strides in healthcare and education.
The recognition streak continued in Marrakech, Morocco, where Yusuf received the African Good Governance Award 2025, placing him alongside other distinguished African leaders.
“Governor Yusuf is not only restoring dignity to Kano governance, he is now a continental figure for good leadership. That’s something we all should be proud of,” the group emphasized.
However, the Forum reiterated its call for further recognition, particularly from legal and civic institutions, of the Governor’s role in preserving peace and stability during what they described as “a politically charged and sensitive period” in the state’s history.