Former Governor of Kano State and National Leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has congratulated the Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, on his 63rd birthday, describing him as a trusted ally and committed public servant.
The felicitations come amidst widespread speculation of a political rift between the two leaders over Governor Yusuf’s rumoured plans to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a message released on Tuesday to mark the occasion, Kwankwaso looked past the political tension to reflect on his decades-long journey with Governor Yusuf.
He noted that the governor had served in various strategic capacities under his mentorship, preparing him for his current leadership role.
Kwankwaso recalled that Governor Yusuf first served as his Personal Assistant during his first tenure and his time as Minister of Defence. Yusuf later served as Principal Private Secretary and subsequently as Commissioner during Kwankwaso’s second tenure as governor, roles the NNPP leader said contributed significantly to the development of Kano State.
“I reflect on the many years of our shared political journey through which he contributed to the vision and programmes we pursued for the development of Kano State,” Kwankwaso stated.
He prayed that the new year would grant Governor Yusuf wisdom, good health, and clarity of purpose as he continues to steer the affairs of the state.
Similarly, the Deputy Governor of Kano State, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, joined other well-wishers in celebrating his principal.
He described Governor Yusuf as a focused leader with a strong commitment to the welfare of the people.
The Deputy Governor noted that Yusuf’s leadership style reflects dedication, humility, and a deep understanding of the challenges facing the state, adding that the administration remains people-oriented and development-driven.
In a related development, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Governor of Kano State, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, also extended his congratulations to Governor Yusuf.
Ganduje, in his goodwill message, wished the governor good health and wisdom to continue serving the people.
He described the 63rd birthday as an opportunity for sober reflection on leadership and public service, expressing hope that the governor’s new year would be marked by peace, stability, and development for the state.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, who marked his 63rd birthday on Monday, January 5, has received widespread goodwill messages from political leaders, associates, and residents, even as the state’s political landscape remains the subject of intense national interest.