Yusuf Explains Defection To APC, Says Move Will Accelerate Kano’s Development

The Governor of Kano State, Abba Yusuf, on Monday said his decision to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) was informed by the need to strategically align the state with the centre of national governance to fast-track development.

Yusuf spoke at the 2026 Grand Rally held at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano, where thousands of party faithful and supporters gathered to welcome him into the ruling party.

The governor’s position was contained in a statement issued by his spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa.

Addressing the mammoth crowd, Yusuf said Kano was too important politically and economically to remain disconnected from the Federal Government.

“It is about placing Kano in a position where it can fully participate in national development and secure a better future for its citizens,” Yusuf said.

He stressed that his defection was not driven by personal ambition but by a sense of responsibility to the people of the state.

According to him, Kano must key into President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to benefit from ongoing federal reforms.

“With the support of our great party and the cooperation of the Federal Government, Kano State is better positioned to move forward with confidence and stability,” he added.

The governor expressed appreciation to Vice President Kashim Shettima and the governors of Jigawa, Sokoto, Kaduna, Katsina, Borno, Yobe and Plateau states for attending the rally.

He also commended former APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, Kano State APC Chairman Abdullahi Abbas, and members of the National and State Assemblies for their solidarity.

According to Yusuf, their presence reflected unity and a shared resolve to ensure political stability and sustainable development in Kano.

Speaking at the rally, APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, urged party stakeholders to rally behind the governor.

“The turnout today demonstrates that Kano APC members are united, enthusiastic, and committed to advancing the party’s agenda and supporting President Tinubu’s vision,” he said.

In their separate remarks, Ganduje, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Abbas, ALGON Chairperson Hajiya Sa’adatu Yushau Soja, Alasan Ado Doguwa and other lawmakers assured the governor of their full backing.

“We pledge 100 percent loyalty and cooperation to the governor and the APC in Kano,” they said.

Yusuf maintained that the success of his administration depended on cohesive leadership, strategic alignment with the centre and cross-party cooperation.

The event ended with party members reaffirming their commitment to work collectively to advance the APC’s agenda and ensure Kano benefits fully from federal programmes and investments.

Yusuf had formally resigned from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in January following a visit to President Bola Tinubu at the State House, Abuja.

He cited “deepening internal crises” and “prolonged leadership disputes” within the party as reasons for his exit.