Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano state has said his decision to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC) is aimed at ensuring Kano occupies a central place in national politics and benefits more directly from federal engagement.
Addressing supporters at the party’s 2026 grand rally held at the Sani Abacha Stadium on Monday, Yusuf told a large crowd that the state must not remain on the margins of national decision-making.
He described the move as a strategic step taken in the interest of the people rather than personal political ambition, saying it would allow Kano to align more closely with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and accelerate development through improved relations with 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.
“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.”
The governor had earlier exited the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in January following internal disputes and leadership crises within the party.
He expressed appreciation to Vice-President Kashim Shettima for formally welcoming him into the APC.
Among those in attendance were governors from Jigawa, Sokoto, Kaduna, Katsina, Borno, Yobe and Plateau states. Also present were former Kano governor and ex-APC national chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, and APC national chairman Nentawe Yilwatda, who described the turnout as a demonstration of unity and support for the party’s agenda and Tinubu’s vision.
