Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has undertaken a major cabinet reshuffle, scraping the Chief of Staff (CoS) position and relieving Secretary to the State Government (SSG) Abdullahi Bichi of his duties.
Announcing the decision during a press briefing on Thursday, the Governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, revealed that the changes aim to realign the administration for “optimum performance” and to deliver “more dividends of democracy” to Kano residents.
“This is the first major reshuffle of my cabinet, and it takes immediate effect,” Governor Yusuf declared.
“The decision was made to enhance administrative performance and ensure a pragmatic political realignment that prioritizes the needs of Kano residents.”
Key Changes and Reassignments
The reshuffle affected various ministries, with some commissioners retaining their positions while others were reassigned:
Retained Commissioners:
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
Major Reassignments:
Deputy Governor Comrade Aminu Abdulssalam moved from the Ministry of Local Government to Higher Education.
Hon. Mohammad Tajo Usman took over Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.
Dr. Yusuf Ibrahim Kofar Mata transitioned from Higher Education to Science, Technology, and Innovation.
Hon. Amina Abdullahi now leads the Ministry for Women, Children, and Persons with Disabilities.
Hon. Aisha Lawal Saji shifted to the Ministry of Tourism and Culture.
Dropped Officials
Five commissioners were relieved of their positions, including:
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
The former Chief of Staff, Shehu Sagagi, was also removed as his position was abolished.
Reasons for Changes
While Abdullahi Baffa Bichi was reportedly dropped for health reasons, Governor Yusuf directed all affected officials to report to his office for possible reassignment.
Speaking on the reshuffle, Sanusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa reiterated the governor’s commitment to improved governance: “This reshuffle reflects His Excellency’s resolve to ensure that 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 Reactions
Political analysts have lauded the move as strategic. Musa Bello, a public affairs commentator, called it “a bold step to weed out inefficiency and inject fresh energy into the cabinet.”
The reshuffle underscores Governor Yusuf’s determination to recalibrate his administration to tackle challenges effectively and deliver on his promises to the people of Kano State.