Kano Gov. Yusuf emerges African Governor of the Year 2025 for Good Governance

• …President of Madagasca, Ugandan PM also nominated

By Jude Opara, Abuja

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has been honored as the African Governor of the Year for Good Governance at the 14th African Leadership Magazine (ALM) Persons of the Year 2025 ceremony in Casablanca, Morocco.

This was contained in a joined statement issued by governor’s spokesperson Sunusi Bature Dawakin on behalf of media aides of other African leaders at the event which held at the Marriot Hotel, Casablanca.

Bature said the recognition highlights Governor Yusuf’s exceptional leadership in promoting transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance.

“His administration’s reforms in education, infrastructure, healthcare, and economic development have positioned Kano State as a model of good governance in Africa”.

Gov. Yusuf who was represented by his Special Adviser on State Affairs, Alhaji Usman Bala, dedicated the award to the people of Kano state, emphasizing their pivotal role in driving progress by the current administration.

According to the African Leadership Magazine, under his leadership, Kano has achieved significant milestones, including allocating over 31% of the state budget to education, sponsoring postgraduate students abroad, and implementing technology-driven governance solutions.

“Governor Yusuf’s commitment to good governance has also earned him national and international accolades, which include the Governor of the year on education by the New Telegraph Newspapers, Most Pensioners Friendly Governor the year by the Nigeria Union of Pensioners and Teachers Friendly Governor of the year by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) among many other recognitions”

The statement added that the ALM editorial board commended his efforts, stating, “Governor Yusuf exemplifies the transformative power of leadership in Africa.”

Speaking further, the statement added; “During the event, Governor Yusuf’s representatives participated in the Countries & State Governments Investment Opportunities Showcase, highlighting Kano’s potential for investment in key sectors like renewable energy, technology, and agribusiness”.