2027: Gwarzo Likely To Face Barau In Kano North Senatorial Contest

A former minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Abdullahi Tijjani Mohammed Gwarzo, has declared his intention to contest the Kano North senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections, setting up a potential showdown with the deputy president of the Senate, Barau Jibrin.

Gwarzo made his declaration while addressing hundreds of supporters in Kano, where he accepted the calls to join the race. He said his long years in public service had equipped him with the experience needed to represent the district effectively.

The former deputy governor stated that he had served as chairman of Gwarzo local government area for multiple terms and held various positions at both state and federal levels, which he said positioned him as the most experienced aspirant for the seat.

He highlighted some of his initiatives, including the establishment of a vocational training centre for youths, where beneficiaries receive monthly stipends. According to him, the programme would be expanded across the 18 local government areas in Kano North to tackle unemployment and reduce social vices.

Gwarzo also said that during his tenure in public office, he facilitated infrastructural development projects, including rural electrification and skills acquisition centres.

He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as “visionary leadership,” citing initiatives such as the Nigeria Education Loan Fund and ongoing infrastructure projects, including the Kano–Kaduna–Abuja highway and the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano gas pipeline.

Reflecting on his time as minister between 2023 and 2024, Gwarzo said he contributed to housing reforms, including the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates initiative, and interventions that benefited Kano State.

In another development, a former commissioner and local government chairman, Muntari Isha Yakasai, has urged Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to consider appointing Murtala Sule Garo as substantive deputy governor, saying the move would strengthen governance in the state.