Kano’s Honored 35: A Call to Champion Peace, Unity, and the Sustainable Development of Our State
By Musa Abdullahi Sufi
Kano, Nigeria
In a moment of profound recognition, Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, celebrated 35 distinguished indigenes for their exceptional contributions to national progress. The grand ceremony was not merely an awards night but a powerful statement on leadership, service, and the enduring legacy of Kano’s excellence.
The honorees, drawn from various fields—including the military, academia, public service, engineering, and business—now bear a renewed responsibility to channel their influence toward fostering peace, unity, and sustainable development in Kano.
A Night of Pride and Inspiration
Governor Yusuf underscored the significance of the event, stating “I had the distinct honour of decorating 35 distinguished indigenes of Kano State, whose outstanding contributions have left an indelible mark across various fields.
The event was a night of pride, inspiration, and recognition, as it celebrated the brilliance and achievements of some of Kano’s finest individuals.”
This moment of recognition is not just about celebrating past achievements but about inspiring future generations. The honorees must now serve as mentors and role models, guiding young minds toward success through dedication, resilience, and a commitment to excellence.
Championing Peace and Stability
Security remains one of the most pressing challenges in Nigeria, and Kano is no exception. The recognition of top military and police officials, including Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, Major General M.S. Ahmed, Major General Sani Sumaila Ibrahim, and Air Vice Marshal M. Yusuf, highlights the critical role these leaders play in ensuring national stability.
As decorated officers and security experts, they must continue to advocate for strategic policies, intelligence-driven operations, and community-based peacebuilding initiatives that foster lasting stability in Kano and beyond. Their expertise must extend beyond the barracks, engaging with local communities to address the root causes of insecurity, including unemployment and political exclusion.
Fostering Unity in a Diverse Society
Kano’s strength lies in its diversity. The gathering of honorees from different professional and social backgrounds is a testament to the state’s vast talent pool. Governor Yusuf acknowledged this diversity, noting:
“The prestigious gathering brought together dignitaries from diverse sectors, including military officers, academics, public servants, engineers, and business leaders.”
Yet, political and ethnic tensions have, at times, threatened Kano’s social harmony. These honorees must lead by example, advocating for inclusivity, tolerance, and dialogue. Their collective voice can foster unity, bridge societal divides, and promote policies that ensure that all Kano residents—regardless of background—have a stake in the state’s future.
Driving Innovation and Economic Growth
Kano, historically a hub of commerce and education, must now embrace innovation and digital transformation to remain competitive. Among some of the honorees were distinguished scholars and industry leaders, including Prof. Umma Abdullahi, the first female Professor of Mechanical Engineering from Kano, Dr. Hadiza Galadanci, a renowned Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Prof. Nazifi Abdullahi Darma, an academic at the ECOWAS Commission, and Engr. Mustapha Balarabe Shehu, President of the World Engineering Forum and many others.
Their expertise is critical in shaping Kano’s economic future. Through research, policy recommendations, and strategic investments, they can drive industrialization, technology-driven enterprises, and climate-conscious development, ensuring sustainable progress for the state.
A Call to Action for the Honored 35
Governor Yusuf’s closing remarks were a powerful reminder that this recognition is a call to greater responsibility. “It is worthy of emphasis that the ceremony was more than just an awards night, but a celebration of Kano’s enduring legacy of excellence.”
This legacy must now be upheld through action. The honorees must move beyond personal success and work collectively to address the socio-economic challenges facing Kano.
They must mentor the next generation, ensuring that Kano’s youth are equipped with the skills and knowledge to compete on a global stage. They must advocate for progressive policies, particularly in education, health, and economic development. They must foster partnerships, bridging the gap between government, private sector, and community stakeholders to drive holistic development.
Their recognition will only be meaningful if it translates into tangible, lasting impact. The people of Kano will remember them not just for the accolades they received but for the difference they made in shaping a brighter future.
As the world watches, Kano’s Honored 35 have an opportunity to redefine leadership—not as a privilege, but as a duty to serve, inspire, and transform.
Musa Abdullahi Sufi is a journalist and advocate for inclusive and sustainable development, leadership and governance, and sustainable progress in Kano State, Nigeria.
