KANO RETURNS TO APC: ‘Kano Too Strategic to Stay on the Sidelines’- Shettima

By Onwe Wisdom , Pan Afric Reporters

A dramatic political realignment unfolded in Kano on Monday as Vice President Kashim Shettima declared the state “too pivotal to remain on the sidelines” during the official reception of Governor Abba Yusuf into the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The high-profile event, held at the Sani Abacha Stadium, marked a significant shift in Kano’s political landscape, with 22 members of the State House of Assembly, eight members of the House of Representatives, and 44 local government chairmen defecting alongside the governor to the ruling party.

The development signals a major boost for the APC’s consolidation efforts in Kano ahead of future electoral contests. Especially as the strategic political bridge building ahead of 2027 begins.

Addressing a mammoth crowd of party faithful, Shettima described Kano as a strategic political stronghold whose alignment with the APC is critical to both state and national calculations; underscoring the fact that Kano state can not be on the peripheral circumference politicking.

“Kano is so important that we cannot afford for it to be on the sidelines,” the Vice President declared, congratulating the governor and other defectors for what he termed a courageous and timely decision.

He emphasized that Kano’s demographic strength, political influence, and economic relevance make it indispensable in shaping Nigeria’s political direction, adding that the APC is committed to fostering inclusivity, development, and stability in the state.

The Vice President’s remarks bring to o fore the party’s renewed focus on Kano, especially after losing the state to the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in the 2023 presidential and governorship elections. Political observers see the governor’s defection as a strategic realignment aimed at strengthening President Bola Tinubu’s political base ahead of the next electoral cycle.

In his remarks, Governor Yusuf said his decision to leave the NNPP was driven by a commitment to accelerate development in Kano and align more closely with the Federal Government’s agenda.

“Our people are not interested in endless political struggles; they want roads, hospitals, schools, and policies that improve their socio-economic conditions,” he said.

The governor expressed gratitude to the Vice President and APC leadership for their support, reaffirming his administration’s readiness to work in harmony with party stakeholders to ensure Kano’s prosperity.

Yusuf also pledged alignment with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, stating that cooperation between Kano and Abuja would fast-track infrastructure development and economic growth.

Earlier in the day, during a courtesy visit to the governor, APC National Chairman Prof. Yilwatda reaffirmed the party’s 60/40 leadership-sharing arrangement between new entrants and existing members, describing it as a framework designed to promote fairness, inclusivity, and unity.

“The 60/40 formula ensures that both longstanding members and new entrants have a sense of belonging and responsibility in moving the party forward,” Yilwatda stated.

He praised the large turnout of party supporters as evidence of renewed momentum within the Kano APC fold and expressed confidence that the development would strengthen support for President Tinubu in future elections.

The chairman also commended key party stakeholders, including Alhaji Yusuf Gawuna and Senator Barau, for prioritizing unity over personal ambition, while acknowledging Dr. Ganduje’s contributions to strengthening the party structure in the state.

Governor Yusuf’s defection—formalized on January 26, 2026 follows months of political maneuvering. Previous attempts to lure NNPP national leader, Rabiu Kwankwaso, back to the APC reportedly failed, making Yusuf’s move a decisive breakthrough for the ruling party.

Political analysts view the mass defection as a watershed moment that could reshape Kano’s political configuration and alter the balance of power in northern Nigeria.

With Kano now firmly back in its fold, the APC appears poised to consolidate its dominance in one of Nigeria’s most influential states, setting the stage for intensified political realignments ahead of the next general elections.

Earlier, the Kano state honorable commissioner for health and chairmen of Gov. Abba Yusuf Reception Rally health committee said the committee is prepared for the safety and welfare of all participants as it relates to health.

He noted that the committee has made adequate strategic arrangements at all entrance points to the venue.

He also notes that the defection is necessary to align the state with the center wholly to the benefit of the state.

The reception drew top-ranking party leaders and political figures from across the country, including APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda; former National Chairman, Umar Ganduje; Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau; and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas.

Also in attendance were governors from Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, Kaduna, Jigawa, and Imo States, underscoring the national significance attached to the event.