By Mustapha Salisu
The Kano State Government has dismissed reports suggesting that a recent directive by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has “grounded public administration” across the state.
In a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar F. Ibrahim, the government described the claims as misleading, incorrect, and devoid of factual or legal basis.
According to the statement, the directive, which instructed Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to temporarily suspend forwarding files to the Governor’s office was issued in late December as a routine fiscal control measure. It coincided with the end of the 2025 fiscal year and the legislative consideration of the new Appropriation Law.
The government explained that the decision was taken out of prudence and respect for due process, stressing that it aimed to prevent unauthorized spending, illegal financial commitments, and potential audit queries.
“Far from grounding public administration, the directive was a responsible measure designed to ensure fiscal discipline and protect the state from legal exposure,” the statement read.
It further clarified that essential services in security, healthcare, education, sanitation, and other key sectors remain fully operational under existing approvals and statutory provisions.
The government also noted that the temporary pause allows MDAs to operate strictly within their lawful mandates while curbing the end-of-year rush for approvals that could compromise transparency.
Describing the media reports as unfortunate, the Kano State Government emphasized that the action demonstrates foresight, discipline, and respect for the rule of law, not administrative paralysis as alleged.
The statement assured the public that once ongoing administrative reviews are concluded, new directives will be issued to guide the next phase of executive operations.
“The Government of Kano State remains committed to transparency, effective service delivery, and prudent management of public resources in the best interest of its people,” the statement concluded.