By Peter Omopo
Nigeria’s political landscape witnessed a significant shift on Monday as Vice President formally welcomed into the (APC) at a grand ceremony in .
Addressing a jubilant crowd, Shettima described the governor’s move from the (NNPP) as more than a political defection, characterising it as a return to national relevance for one of Nigeria’s most influential states.
“Whenever Kano talks, the nation walks with him,” the Vice President declared, portraying the development as a moment of national importance rather than routine partisan realignment.
Shettima praised Kano’s historic contributions to scholarship, commerce, politics and faith, describing the state as “an elegant expression of Nigeria’s cosmopolitan soul.” He added that Kano “welcomes every Nigerian, absorbs every accent, accommodates every ambition, and turns diversity into destiny,” insisting that the state is “too big to play in the periphery.”
Also speaking at the event, APC National Chairman described Yusuf’s return as a homecoming, calling the ruling party his “natural political home.”
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Yilwatda urged party leaders in Kano to close ranks and avoid internal divisions. He reaffirmed the party’s 60/40 leadership-sharing arrangement between new entrants and existing members, a formula aimed at easing tensions within the state chapter.
The chairman commended key party figures, including , and former governor , for supporting what he described as a unifying political project.
For Governor Yusuf, the decision to leave the NNPP was presented as pragmatic rather than ideological. He said the former platform had become burdened by “distractions and uncertainty,” limiting the state’s focus on development.
“We’re not interested in endless political battles. Our people want better roads, infrastructure, jobs, security, and a government focused on delivery,” Yusuf said.
He explained that aligning with the APC would enable Kano State to work more closely with the Federal Government under President , particularly as the country undergoes reforms requiring strong collaboration between federal and state authorities.
“The country is undergoing reforms that require states that are serious about governance, implementation and results to be part and parcel of the agenda of the president,” Yusuf stated, adding that Kano must be “not on the margins but on the table.”
Reaffirming his “Kano First Government” philosophy, the governor assured residents that the party switch would not diminish his commitment to fairness, service delivery and inclusive governance.
With federal backing and party consolidation now in place, Yusuf expressed confidence that Kano is positioned to move forward decisively, framing the political realignment as strategic and development-driven rather than purely partisan.
