Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has defended his recent defection from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the move as a strategic step to align the state with the federal government and accelerate development.
Speaking at a 2026 APC rally at Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano, Yusuf told thousands of supporters that Kano can no longer afford to be sidelined from national progress. He emphasized that the decision was driven by responsibility rather than personal ambition, enabling the state to actively engage with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and benefit from stronger federal collaboration.
“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 expressed gratitude to Vice President Kashim Shettima, neighboring state governors, former APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, Kano APC Chairman Abdullahi Abbas, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, ALGON Chairperson Hajiya Sa’adatu Yushau Soja, and other lawmakers for their support.
APC National Chairman Professor Nentawe Yilwatda lauded the massive turnout, highlighting the unity and commitment of Kano APC members to the party’s agenda and President Tinubu’s vision. Party leaders including Ganduje, Barau Jibrin, and Abdullahi Abbas pledged full loyalty to Governor Yusuf and the APC in Kano.
The rally, attended by thousands, was seen as a demonstration of strength and solidarity, signalling a new political chapter for Kano State.
Governor Yusuf had formally resigned from the NNPP in January 2026, citing “deepening internal crises” and prolonged leadership disputes within the party. His defection mirrors a recent trend of several governors from the Peoples Democratic Party joining the APC, including leaders from Akwa Ibom, Delta, Enugu, Bayelsa, Taraba, Rivers, and Plateau states.
