Yusuf bags Leadership Newspaper of the Year 2024 Education award

Gov. Abba Yusuf of Kano State has been named Leadership Governor of the Year 2024 in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the education sector.

Sanusi Dawakin-Tofa, the Governor’s spokesperson, stated this in a statement in Kano on Tuesday.

Dawakin-Tofa explained that the award was presented at the 17th Annual Leadership Conference and Awards, held at the State House Banquet Hall, Aso Rock Presidential Villa, Abuja.

He said that the recognition was described as a validation of Yusuf’s bold reforms in education.

According to him, Yusuf was particularly commended for allocating 31 per cent of the state’s annual budget to education, surpassing the UNESCO benchmark, and for declaring a state of emergency on the sector.

“His administration’s initiatives include massive school renovations, provision of learning materials, recruitment of teachers, and the launch of a comprehensive Education Recovery Plan,” he said.

Speaking after receiving the award, Yusuf expressed gratitude to the organizers, describing the honour as unexpected and highly credible.

“We never imagined that our efforts would receive such national recognition. We did not pay for this award, we did not lobby for it, we were simply recognised for what we have achieved in Kano,” he said.

He dedicated the award to vulnerable children across the state and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to deepening reforms in education.

“This recognition has given us more encouragement to keep pushing for excellence. I thank the Leadership Newspaper management and the media for their continued support,” he added.

The event also marked the 20th anniversary of Leadership Newspaper, celebrating two decades of impactful journalism in Nigeria.

The event also celebrated notable Nigerians who have made significant impacts in various fields.

They include Alhaji Aliko Dangote, who was named Person of the Year 2024, and the Governor of Jigawa, Namadi Danmodi, who also received Governor of the Year award.