Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has made significant changes to his cabinet, including the abolition of the Chief of Staff (CoS) position and the removal of Abdullahi Bichi, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG).
The reshuffle was announced on Thursday during a press briefing by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa.
According to the statement, the reshuffle is part of Governor Yusuf’s plan to realign his administration for “optimum performance” and to deliver “more dividends of democracy” to the people of Kano State.
“This is the first major reshuffle of my cabinet, and it takes immediate effect,” Governor Yusuf said. “The decision was made to enhance administrative performance and ensure a pragmatic political realignment that focuses on the needs of Kano residents.”
The changes include the removal of the Chief of Staff, Shehu Sagagi, whose position has been abolished. Abdullahi Baffa Bichi, the SSG, was also removed, reportedly due to health reasons.
Several key ministries were affected by the reshuffle, with some commissioners retaining their roles while others were reassigned. Among those retained are:
- Barr. Haruna Isa Dederi, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice
- Dr. Danjuma Mahmoud, Commissioner for Agriculture
- Dr. Abubakar Labaran, Commissioner for Health
- Engr. Marwan Ahmad, Commissioner for Works and Housing
Significant reassignments include Deputy Governor Comrade Aminu Abdulssalam, who has moved from the Ministry of Local Government to the Ministry of Higher Education. Hon. Mohammad Tajo Usman has taken over Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, while Dr. Yusuf Ibrahim Kofar Mata has shifted from Higher Education to Science, Technology, and Innovation.
Hon. Amina Abdullahi, formerly in charge of Humanitarian and Poverty Alleviation, will now head the Ministry for Women, Children, and Persons with Disabilities. Hon. Aisha Lawal Saji has transitioned from this ministry to Tourism and Culture.
The reshuffle also resulted in the removal of five commissioners:
- 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
Governor Yusuf has directed these former officials, along with the ex-Chief of Staff, to report to his office for potential reassignment.
Sanusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa emphasized the Governor’s commitment to improving governance, stating, “This reshuffle reflects His Excellency’s resolve to ensure his team is equipped to meet the aspirations of Kano people. Some members have been reassigned to areas where their expertise is needed most.”
Political analysts view the reshuffle as a strategic effort to address inefficiency and inject new energy into the administration. Public affairs commentator Musa Bello described it as “a bold step to retool the cabinet for the challenges ahead.”
