Kano State and the Imperative of Leadership and Sustainable Development Under His Excellency, Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf
By: Dr Sagir S Buhari, FCIA
A nation or state can only achieve meaningful growth and sustainable development when the best minds within its population are identified, empowered, and effectively utilized. This principle remains one of the key reasons why countries such as the United States of America and many other developed nations have attained remarkable levels of progress. Similarly, within Nigeria, states such as Lagos, Rivers, Delta, and Ogun have achieved notable industrial and economic advancement by deliberately harnessing the expertise of competent technocrats, professionals, and experienced administrators.
Despite its enormous human and economic potential, Kano State still lacks a functional state-owned electricity supply capable of sustaining large-scale industries and manufacturing activities. If properly addressed, such a development would serve as a catalyst for industrialization, job creation, and sustainable employment opportunities for the teeming youth population of the state. Unfortunately, this critical sector has remained a major developmental gap since the return of democratic governance in 1999.
Kano State remains richly endowed with intellectuals, technocrats, experienced public servants, and seasoned administrators. However, what has often limited its progress is the absence of consistent dedication, inclusiveness, strategic long-term planning, and collective synergy among leaders. There is an urgent need for leadership that prioritizes unity of purpose, institutional strength, and merit-based governance over political rivalry and personal interest.
I therefore call on the present leadership of Kano State, under the able leadership of His Excellency, Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, to seize the opportunity entrusted to him by the people to build a strong and inclusive governance system. This can be achieved by bringing together the best and most experienced public servants, technocrats, professionals, and administrators, irrespective of political affiliation, in order to move the state forward.
The concept of “Kano First” should not remain a slogan but must be reflected in practical governance outcomes. It should be evident in the quality of appointments, the competence of public officials, and the effectiveness of institutions within Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). These institutions form the engine room of governance and are central to achieving sustainable development, economic transformation, and social progress.
Kano State is blessed with abundant resources and human capital capable of driving meaningful development, economic prosperity, and industrial advancement. However, what the state truly requires is sincere, visionary, loyal, and dedicated leadership that prioritizes the collective interest of the people above personal or political considerations. With strong leadership, strategic planning, accountability, and effective utilization of competent professionals, Kano has the capacity to emerge as a leading industrial and economic hub not only in Nigeria but across Africa.
Furthermore, functional independent power generation remains one of the most critical factors for unlocking Kano’s industrial potential. Without a reliable electricity supply, sustained industrial growth will remain difficult. Therefore, urgent investment in energy infrastructure, including renewable energy solutions and public-private partnerships, is essential for long-term development.
In addition, youth empowerment must be placed at the centre of development policy. The large youth population in Kano should be viewed as a strategic asset rather than a burden. Through skills acquisition, entrepreneurship development, innovation support, and job creation initiatives, the youth can become the backbone of economic transformation and productivity in the state.
Sustainable development also requires continuity of policies beyond political cycles. Development programmes must be protected from unnecessary disruption so that long-term projects in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and industrialization can yield meaningful results. When governance is consistent and strategic, progress becomes more stable and impactful.
Transparency, accountability, and institutional integrity must also be strengthened at all levels of government. Public resources must be managed responsibly, and governance outcomes should be visible in the improved living standards of citizens. Trust between government and the people is a critical foundation for sustainable development.
Education remains the foundation of all meaningful transformation. Kano State must continue to invest in quality education at all levels, ensuring that its institutions produce skilled, innovative, and capable graduates. Technical and vocational education must also be prioritized to equip young people with practical skills that align with modern industrial needs.
Furthermore, collaboration with the private sector, development partners, and investors is essential. No state can achieve industrial growth in isolation. A conducive environment for investment will attract capital, technology, and expertise necessary to accelerate Kano’s economic transformation.
Infrastructure development beyond power supply is also essential. Good road networks, modern transportation systems, functional healthcare facilities, and digital connectivity are all critical pillars of a competitive economy. Kano State must continue to pursue integrated infrastructure planning that strengthens commerce, improves market access, and enhances the quality of life of its citizens.
Agricultural transformation should also remain a central pillar of economic development. Through mechanisation, irrigation systems, agro-processing industries, and improved access to finance, Kano can significantly boost productivity, strengthen food security, and create value chains that benefit both rural and urban communities.
This reminds me of the Kano State Anthem, “Taken Kano,” which was initiated by the previous administration in collaboration with professionals from Bayero University Kano and the Directorate of Research and Documentation, Office of the Executive Governor. It was later passed into law by the Kano State House of Assembly.
The anthem serves to unite the people of Kano State in purpose, promoting love for the state and encouraging commitment to its development. It inspires the youth to dedicate themselves to the progress of their beloved state, “Kano Tumbin Giwa.”
I therefore urge the current administration, which also shares the mission of advancing Kano State, to revisit the Kano State Anthem and ensure its full implementation in schools and at public events. This will help inculcate in the minds of the youth and future generations a strong sense of identity, unity, patriotism, and commitment to the development of Kano State.
With unity of purpose, visionary leadership, disciplined institutions, and an empowered population, Kano State can unlock its full potential and rise as a model of sustainable development, industrial strength, and economic prosperity for Nigeria and beyond.
It is also important that the youth of Kano State take full responsibility for shaping their future by actively participating in the democratic process and making informed choices during the forthcoming 2027 General Election. Their votes must reflect awareness, responsibility, and a desire for leaders who are competent, visionary, and committed to the progress of the state.
As the 2027 General Election approaches, the youth, women, scholars, and all citizens of Kano State are called upon to vote wisely and responsibly. They must carefully choose leaders who possess vision, competence, integrity, and the capacity to deliver meaningful development and improve the future of coming generations. Elections remain a decisive moment in shaping the destiny of society, and therefore every vote must be guided by awareness, sincerity, and a genuine desire for progress.
May Allah (SWT) guide the people of Kano State and grant them righteous, just, and capable leaders who will govern with sincerity, wisdom, and fear of Allah (SWT). Ameen.
Dr Sagir S Buhari, FCIA
Former Director General, Research and Documentation Directorate, Government House, Kano State.
Member, Governing Council, Federal University of Science and Technology, Kabo, Kano State
buharisageer@gmail.com
29th May, 2026
