Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has pointed out that weak institutions, corruption, poor governance, and the quality of leadership at the national, state, and local government levels are significant challenges hindering Nigeria’s development.
In a speech delivered during a lecture to commemorate the country’s 64th independence anniversary, Governor Yusuf assessed the progress made in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
The governor praised the two speakers at the lecture, Prof. Kamilu Fagge and Sheikh Ibrahim Khalil, for their valuable contributions, noting that they “engaged us incisively on topics of great importance to both Kano State and our nation as a whole.”
Yusuf described the subjects discussed as relevant and reflective of the realities of national life, particularly concerning governance, leadership, and the ongoing quest for development.
In his assessment, Governor Yusuf raised questions on whether the democratic ideals of freedom, justice, and equality have been fulfilled.
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He said: “As it is everywhere globally, the success of Nigeria’s democracy is tied closely to the quality of leadership.
“As a developing nation with a complex political landscape, leadership challenges, such as corruption, weak institutions and lack of accountability, have hindered national progress.
“A lecture focusing on leadership challenges will certainly allow for a deeper analysis of the role leaders at both state and national levels play in the country’s successes and shortcomings.
“Although the topics address national issues, its specific focus on Kano State is highly relevant. States are the building blocks of Nigeria’s federal structure, and the progress of individual states contributes to the overall success of the nation.”
Shifting his focus to his own government and state, Governor Yusuf stated that by repositioning Kano State to tackle leadership and governance challenges, it serves as a model for other states on how to establish effective governance that can be replicated across the country.
He said, “Allow me to also remind you that the future of Nigeria is deeply linked to the development of its states. A brighter future for Kano State can serve as a small-scale version of the broader national aspiration for a prosperous Nigeria.
“By addressing state-level challenges in leadership, education, health, and infrastructure, these topics emphasise the importance of localized governance as a stepping stone to national success.
“We must recognise that democracy is a journey, and the success of that journey is largely dependent on the quality of leadership at every level — national, state, and local government.
“We in Kano State are fully committed to playing our part in strengthening the democratic process and building institutions that foster good governance.”
Governor Abba took the opportunity to showcase some of his administration’s achievements in areas such as education, health, security, agriculture, and public service reforms. He emphasized that as Kano State looks ahead, his government will continue to build on these successes.
He urged all citizens to actively participate and foster unity, embracing the spirit of patriotism, hard work, and the values that define Nigerians as a people.
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