Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has called on residents to protect the peace and stability of the state as Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 general elections.
Yusuf made the appeal on Thursday while addressing residents during celebrations marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary at the Sani Abacha Indoor Stadium.
The governor urged citizens to reject violence, intolerance, division and criminality, stressing that peace and mutual respect were essential to Kano’s continued economic and social development.
Governor Calls for Peaceful and Credible Elections
With political activity expected to intensify ahead of the 2027 elections, Yusuf urged Kano residents to avoid actions that could undermine the existing peace in the state.
He also called on Nigerians to pray for elections that are peaceful, free, fair and credible.
The governor encouraged citizens to embrace lawful economic activities and responsible citizenship rather than allowing political differences to create tension within communities.
Security Agencies Praised for Protecting Residents
Yusuf commended security agencies operating across Kano for their efforts to protect lives and property and maintain stability.
He reaffirmed his administration‘s commitment to strengthening cooperation with the military, Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and the Department of State Services.
According to the governor, the state government will continue providing additional logistical and operational support to security formations, particularly in vulnerable and frontline communities.
Focus Shifts to Communities Facing Security Challenges
The governor said the government had maintained grassroots security coordination while increasing attention to local government areas facing security difficulties.
Among the areas mentioned were Tsanyawa, Ghari, Gwarzo, Shanono, Bagwai, Rogo, Kiru/Bebeji, Karaye and Tudun Wada/Doguwa.
He said the objective was to protect residents, rebuild public confidence and create conditions that would allow people to return to their farms and resume normal economic activities.
Kano Steps Up Fight Against Drug Abuse
Yusuf also highlighted measures taken by his administration to address drug abuse, illicit trafficking, thuggery and related criminal activities.
He said the establishment of the Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, alongside an Executive Order strengthening the campaign against illicit substances, was producing positive results.
The governor presented the initiative as part of a broader security strategy aimed at tackling issues that can contribute to crime and instability within communities.
Government Highlights Development Priorities
Beyond security, Yusuf said his administration remained focused on consolidating progress across several key sectors.
These include education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, water supply, security and human capital development.
He said the state government would continue working with the Federal Government, local governments, traditional and religious institutions, the private sector and development partners to advance development across Kano.
Support for Vulnerable Families
The governor also pointed to measures designed to strengthen the livelihoods of vulnerable residents.
According to Yusuf, thousands of beneficiaries across the state have received support in the form of start-up capital, livestock, skills training and other forms of assistance.
The programmes are intended to help families become more economically independent while supporting broader efforts to reduce vulnerability and improve livelihoods.
Yusuf Thanks Federal Government for Support
The governor expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for its assistance with infrastructure, security and other development initiatives in Kano.
He said continued cooperation between different levels of government would remain important in addressing the state’s challenges and delivering services to residents.
Governor Calls for Renewed Commitment to Nigeria
As Kano joined the rest of the country in marking the Independence anniversary, Yusuf called on citizens to renew their commitment to peace, unity and national development.
He urged residents to play their part in building a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria, particularly as the country approaches another politically significant election cycle.
The governor’s message centred on maintaining stability while pursuing economic development and ensuring that Kano residents can continue their daily lives and businesses without fear.
