Nigeria @64: Future linked to inclusive devt., Says Yusuf

Gov. Abba Yusuf of Kano State says the nation’s future is largely dependent on development across all states of the federation.

Yusuf said this on Sunday in Kano at an independence anniversary lecture organised by the State Government.

The lecture has as its theme: “Nigeria’s Independence and Leadership Challenges: Repositioning Kano for Greater Future.”

Nigeria is scheduled to celebrate its 64th independence from Great Britain on Tuesday.

According to Yusuf, a brighter future for Kano State can therefore serve as a small-scale version of broader aspiration for a prosperous Nigeria.

He was represented at the event by the state Commissioner for Information, Mr Baba Dantiye.

“By addressing state-level challenges in leadership, education, health, and infrastructure, this topic emphasises the importance of localised governance as a stepping stone to national success.

“Repositioning Kano State for a brighter future links into the idea that Independence Day is not just about reflecting on the past, but also about looking ahead.

“It underscores the importance of creating a sustainable and progressive state where good governance, rule of law, and inclusivity are prioritised.”

“As we commemorate 64 years of independence, it is vital to appreciate how far we have come, but more importantly, to chart a course for the future,” Yusuf said.

He said it was important to recognise that democracy is a journey whose its success is largely dependent on the quality of leadership at every levels.

Yusuf assured of the commitment of Kano State Government to strengthening the democratic process and building institutions that fostered good governance and development.

In his lecture Prof. Kamilu Fagge of Bayero University Kano (BUK) said the extent to which any state could be effectively repositioned was largely a function of transformational leadership.

“Given their vantage position of power and authority the leadership must spearhead the move for the repositioning the state to the glorious past.

“The leadership must develop the political will to move/carry the state forward.

“Self-cleansing – leaders should not only imbibe the ethos, ethics and values of leadership but also take concrete steps to purge/rid itself of social evils corruption, mal-administration, abuse of office, cronyism,” the don said.