Excitement has spread across Kano State following the latest Nigerian Governor scholarship initiative, as Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf officially sponsored 350 indigenes to pursue their postgraduate studies abroad. The governor personally oversaw their departure, marking a major investment in education and human capital development. According to officials, the Nigerian Governor scholarship programme is part of ongoing efforts to empower youths through global academic exposure and advanced training.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf saw the students off at the airport as they prepared to travel to three countries where they will begin postgraduate programmes. These beneficiaries are part of the administration’s larger 1,001 foreign and local postgraduate scholarship scheme, which targets bright students in need of support. This batch is heading to India, Uganda, and Malaysia to commence studies fully funded by the state. The governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, confirmed the development in an official statement released on Thursday, November 13.
During the farewell ceremony at the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA), Governor Yusuf encouraged the beneficiaries to stay focused and committed throughout their academic journey. He reminded them that the opportunity offered through the Nigerian Governor scholarship is both a distinction and a duty. According to him, the government expects the students to excel and bring back knowledge that will contribute meaningfully to Kano’s progress.
In his address, the governor emphasized that the initiative is not merely financial support but a strategic investment in the future of the state. He expressed confidence that the education and skills the students will acquire overseas would influence development across various sectors when they return. He urged the beneficiaries to conduct themselves responsibly, maintain good character, and represent Kano and Nigeria positively during their stay abroad.
Governor Yusuf also highlighted the cultural aspect of their mission, advising the students to proudly share Kano’s heritage wherever they go. He prayed for their safety, success, and smooth return upon completing their programmes. The governor reassured them that his administration will continue to provide guidance and follow-up support, stressing that his government is determined to strengthen the intellectual foundation of the state’s youth. Through the Nigerian Governor scholarship, the administration hopes to equip young people with global knowledge that will reposition Kano for future competitiveness.
The governor reaffirmed this commitment to education at a time political conversations in the state remain vibrant. His remarks came just weeks after he clarified his relationship with the national leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. Yusuf had earlier stated that no individual could create a rift between him and his mentor.
During a celebration marking Kwankwaso’s 69th birthday at his residence on Miller Road, the governor reiterated that his bond with the former governor remains firm. He emphasized that their association continues to grow stronger despite speculations from political opponents. At the event, Governor Yusuf repeated that no one could stand between him and Kwankwaso.
He described the former governor as “our leader,” a figure highly respected by the NNPP administration, government officials, and members of the Kwankwasiyya movement. He said supporters of Kwankwaso remain “united and strong, despite the evil machinations of people who want to see us disunited.”