Kano governor abolishes Chief of Staff position, Sacks SSG, commissioners

By Amaechi Okoro

Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has announced a major cabinet reshuffle, which includes the abolition of the Chief of Staff position and the dismissal of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Abdullahi Baffa Bichi, along with several commissioners.

This information, exclusively obtained by Diaspora Digital Media through a reliable source within the Kano State Government, has sparked widespread discussions about the governor’s governance style and commitment to administrative efficiency.

The decision, according to Governor Yusuf, aims to realign his administration for better performance and deliver more impactful dividends of democracy to Kano residents.

The governor made these changes public during a press briefing, explaining that the restructuring aligns with his administration’s overarching goal of optimizing governance to meet the evolving needs of the people.

Governor Yusuf’s Background and Governance Philosophy

Governor Abba Yusuf, who assumed office in May 2023, has consistently prioritized accountability and results-driven leadership.

Before his election, Yusuf had established a reputation as a pragmatic politician committed to social justice and grassroots development.

His administration’s focus has been on critical areas like education, healthcare, agriculture, and infrastructure.

From the onset, Yusuf has emphasized transparency, inclusivity, and public service.

His decision to reshuffle the cabinet is seen as a continuation of this approach, signaling his readiness to take bold steps to ensure his team meets the expectations of Kano residents.

Details of the Reshuffle

According to the Diaspora Digital Media source, the governor’s decision to abolish the Chief of Staff position is part of a broader effort to streamline the administrative structure. Abdullahi Baffa Bichi, who previously held the role, was reportedly relieved of his duties due to health concerns.

The reshuffle also saw five commissioners dismissed from their posts:

Ibrahim Jibril Fagge (Ministry of Finance)

Ladidi Ibrahim Garko (Ministry of Culture and Tourism)

Baba Halilu Dantiye (Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs)

Shehu Aliyu Yammedi (Ministry of Special Duties)

Abbas Sani Abbas (Ministry of Rural and Community Development)

Several commissioners retained their positions, including:

Barrister Haruna Isa Dederi (Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice)

Dr. Danjuma Mahmoud (Commissioner for Agriculture)

Dr. Abubakar Labaran (Commissioner for Health)

Engineer Marwan Ahmad (Commissioner for Works and Housing)

Additionally, some officials were reassigned to new portfolios.

Deputy Governor Comrade Aminu Abdulssalam transitioned from overseeing Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to the Ministry of Higher Education.

Hon. Mohammad Tajo Usman was appointed as the new Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.

Dr. Yusuf Ibrahim Kofar Mata moved from Higher Education to Science, Technology, and Innovation.

Hon. Amina Abdullahi now leads the Ministry for Women, Children, and Persons with Disabilities, while Hon. Aisha Lawal Saji shifts from Humanitarian and Poverty Alleviation to the Ministry of Tourism and Culture.

Diaspora Digital Media, known for its in-depth reporting on governance and political developments, received exclusive access to the details of this reshuffle.

Their insider source revealed that Governor Yusuf’s decision was influenced by internal assessments of the administration’s performance over the past months.

The source disclosed that the governor had been closely monitoring the activities of his cabinet members and decided to implement changes based on their contributions to his administration’s goals.

This approach aligns with Yusuf’s commitment to accountability and results-driven leadership.

Diaspora Digital Media also reported that the dismissed commissioners and the former Chief of Staff have been instructed to report to the governor’s office for potential reassignment, indicating that their services might still be utilized in other capacities.

Governor Yusuf described the reshuffle as a “strategic move” aimed at fostering administrative efficiency and a pragmatic realignment of the government’s priorities.

He emphasized that the changes were necessary to ensure that his administration remains focused on delivering the promises made to Kano residents.

Sanusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, the governor’s spokesperson, reiterated this sentiment during a media interaction with Diaspora Digital Media.

He stated, “This reshuffle reflects His Excellency’s determination to ensure his team is prepared to meet the aspirations of the people of Kano. Some members have been reassigned to areas where their expertise is most needed.”

Governor Yusuf’s leadership has been marked by a focus on transparency and inclusivity.

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