A Leader Ahead Of His Time: Abba Kabir Yusuf’s Impact On Kano – Arch Ali Hassan

As a proud son of Kano and a globally trained architect, what is your general view of the state of Kano today under the current administration?

Thank you. It’s a pleasure to speak on something very close to my heart—Kano. I was born and raised here in Kano, but I studied architecture in Italy, where I gained a broader view of urban planning, innovation, and modern development strategies. Coming back home and seeing what is currently happening under the leadership of His Excellency Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf is nothing short of a renaissance. In just two years, the governor has managed to change the entire narrative of Kano. From infrastructure to human capital development, from economic revival to social harmony—Kano is once again on the map as a mega city not just in name, but in real impact.

That’s a strong statement. Could you elaborate on what you mean by “Kano is on the map again”?

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Absolutely. As someone who has lived and studied abroad, I’ve had the privilege of seeing how great cities evolve—and I see that happening in Kano now. There is massive road construction, modernized public transportation, urban renewal projects, and an overall upgrade in city aesthetics. Markets are being reorganized and given a new life, industries are being revived, and job creation is no longer a campaign promise—it’s a reality. In terms of social development, there’s improved healthcare access, better public schooling, and a strong sense of inclusion across communities. These are the ingredients of a mega city, and Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf is cooking something great for the people of Kano.

You mentioned you studied architecture in Italy. How does what you’re seeing in Kano compare with some of the modern cities you’ve experienced abroad?

That’s an insightful question. While cities like Milan, Florence, or even Turin have a long history of urban development, what sets Kano apart right now is the pace and vision of transformation. You can tell that this administration has a blueprint. As an architect, I can spot good planning when I see it, and what’s happening in Kano is strategic. We’re seeing smart city elements being introduced—green spaces, street lighting, drainage infrastructure, and proper zoning. These are hallmarks of a serious, intentional urban development program.

Some people say that two years is too short to assess a government’s performance. Would you agree?

Not in this case. Two years under Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf has delivered results that many leaders struggle to achieve in eight. When the foundation is solid and the vision is clear, you don’t need eternity to make impact—you just need leadership. That’s what we have now. His performance in two years already deserves historical documentation.

There have been calls from some quarters suggesting that leaders like Governor Yusuf should be allowed to lead beyond the constitutionally mandated two terms. What’s your view?

That’s a debate worth having. We have to start thinking about governance differently. When you have a leader who is visionary, result-driven, and truly people-centered like Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, why limit that impact to just 4+4 years? It’s almost like punishing success. Leaders like him set an example not just for Nigeria, not just for Africa, but globally. If constitutional reforms are needed to allow extraordinary leaders to continue steering progress, then let’s have that conversation—because development should not be interrupted for the sake of tradition.

Some critics might argue that talk of “lifetime leadership” sounds undemocratic. What would you say to that?

I understand the sentiment, but what I’m saying—and what many people in Kano are saying—is not about autocracy, it’s about performance. It’s about allowing excellence to flourish. We want structures in place where, if the people overwhelmingly support a leader and that leader continues to deliver, then rigid term limits shouldn’t cut progress short. It’s not about staying in power—it’s about staying with the people. Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf has redefined leadership, and his kind shouldn’t be constrained by a calendar.

Finally, what message would you give to the people of Kano and to other young entrepreneurs like yourself?

To the people of Kano: this is our time. Let’s support this visionary leadership and take ownership of the development around us. And to young entrepreneurs—look at Kano now. There are opportunities emerging everywhere: in construction, IT, manufacturing, fashion, even tourism. It’s time to think big, act bold, and contribute to building the new Kano. We are witnessing history, and we must be part of it.

The governor is marking his two-year anniversary, what is final note?

On a final note, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to His Excellency, Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, on his remarkable two-year anniversary in office. You have shown us what purposeful, people-centered governance looks like. We salute you.