Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has defended his recent defection from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), insisting that the switch was aimed at aligning the state with the Federal Government to accelerate development.

Governor Yusuf made the remarks on Monday during a massive rally at the Sani Abacha Stadium, which drew thousands of supporters from across the state.

According to the governor, Kano’s size and strategic importance necessitate a close working relationship with the centre.

“Kano is too large and strategically significant to remain politically disconnected from the federal government. This decision is about creating greater opportunities and securing a better future for our people,” he said.

Yusuf emphasised that his defection was not motivated by personal ambition but by the need to position Kano to benefit from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The governor expressed gratitude to Vice President Kashim Shettima, northern governors, and key APC leaders, including former National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje and Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, for their support and presence at the rally.

APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda described the large turnout as a testament to unity and commitment within the party, while other party leaders pledged unwavering loyalty to Governor Yusuf and the APC in Kano.

Political analysts view the rally as a demonstration of strength and a signal of a new phase in Kano politics, as the state seeks closer integration with national governance.

Yusuf resigned from the NNPP in January, citing prolonged internal crises and leadership disputes. His defection is part of a broader trend of opposition governors joining the APC across the country.