By Usman Usman Garba
The Kano State Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs has highlighted numerous achievements recorded under the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, describing the last three years as a period of unprecedented development across the state.
Speaking on the occasion of Governor Yusuf’s third anniversary in office, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Mohammed Tajo Othman, congratulated the governor and commended his commitment to improving education, healthcare, infrastructure, environmental sanitation, and local government administration.
According to him, the present administration has strengthened local government autonomy and enabled councils to function more effectively in delivering development projects to communities.
“These years of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf are truly golden years. In our ministry, we have never witnessed local governments enjoying such a level of autonomy and contributing significantly to the development of the state,” he said.
The commissioner explained that the ministry adopts a participatory approach to development by conducting town hall meetings across the 44 local government areas, where stakeholders are consulted on their priority needs.
“We engage directly with communities, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders to identify projects that will have the greatest impact on the people,” he stated.
On education, Hon. Tajo noted that the state government, in collaboration with local governments, has renovated numerous schools that were previously in dilapidated conditions.
He added that classrooms have been furnished with chairs and desks, while additional teachers have been recruited to improve learning outcomes.
He further revealed that school uniforms and learning materials were distributed to pupils and students across the state.
“These interventions have contributed immensely to educational development.
Last year, Kano emerged as one of the leading states in the NECO examinations, reflecting the quality of education being provided,” he said.
The commissioner also highlighted achievements in the health sector, noting that the state and local governments jointly fund and support Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs).
According to him, several PHCs have been renovated and equipped, while staff salaries are paid regularly to ensure effective service delivery.
“Our ministry ensures that workers receive their salaries promptly every month. We have also renovated many primary healthcare facilities and provided essential equipment to improve healthcare services,” he explained.
Hon. Tajo said the ministry has played a key role in the renovation of local government secretariats and the construction and maintenance of roads and bridges under local government jurisdiction.
He disclosed that many of the five-kilometre road projects initiated by the administration have reached advanced stages of completion and are equipped with solar-powered streetlights to enhance security and improve transportation.
He added that the ministry has also addressed challenges associated with damaged solar streetlights by carrying out repairs and maintenance across affected areas.
On pension matters, the commissioner praised Governor Yusuf for fulfilling his promise to settle pension liabilities inherited from previous administrations.
“When Governor Yusuf assumed office, he pledged to address the challenges facing pensioners, and today over 90 percent of the outstanding obligations have been settled,” he stated.
He further noted that councillors across the state have continued to receive their allowances irrespective of political affiliation.
The commissioner also listed the provision of boreholes, public toilets in markets and public places, and sanitation facilities as part of the ministry’s efforts to improve public health and prevent diseases such as cholera.
He revealed that several cemeteries have been renovated, secured, and expanded to meet growing community needs.
In the area of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Hon. Tajo said the administration has established ICT centres in local government areas to enable residents access computer-based examinations and digital services without travelling to Kano metropolis.
He explained that the centres are equipped with solar power systems, generators, internet connectivity, and other modern facilities.
The commissioner also commended the state government’s security initiatives, particularly the establishment of neighbourhood security structures to complement the efforts of conventional security agencies.
According to him, the initiative has contributed significantly to maintaining peace and security across the state.
Expressing confidence in the governor’s popularity, Hon. Tajo described Governor Yusuf as a compassionate and people-oriented leader who enjoys widespread support among Kano residents.
He called on eligible voters to register with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and support the governor’s administration to enable him continue with ongoing development programmes.
“Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has demonstrated commitment to the welfare of the people and the development of Kano State.
We urge residents to continue supporting him so that the progress being recorded can be sustained,” he said.
