Political Shakeup in Kano as Kwankwaso's Son Steps Down from Commissioner Role
In a significant political development, Mustapha Rabiu Kwankwaso has officially resigned from his position as Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development in Kano State. The resignation marks another chapter in the evolving political landscape of Nigeria's northwestern region, coming amid ongoing tensions within the state's leadership.
Official Resignation Announcement and Gratitude to Governor
The resignation was confirmed through a video statement shared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, January 26, 2026. Mustapha Kwankwaso, who is the son of New Nigeria People's Party (NNPP) national leader Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, expressed his appreciation to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for the opportunity to serve.
In his resignation statement, Mustapha conveyed mixed emotions about his departure from the Kano State Executive Council. "It is with a heavy heart that I announce my resignation as Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Youth and Sports Development and Member of the Kano State Executive Council," he stated.
The young commissioner went on to thank Governor Yusuf "for the opportunity to serve the great people of Kano State," adding that he had "cherished the experiences and lessons gained while serving."
Message of Hope for Kano's Youth and Sports Development
Despite his resignation, Mustapha Kwankwaso expressed optimism about the future of youth and sports programs in Kano State. He emphasized his continued commitment to the welfare of young people in the region, stating: "As I resign, I pray that the youth of Kano State will continue to receive the attention and support they deserve."
Regarding sports development, he added: "I hope for the best for our sports development programs and initiatives, and I am confident that they will flourish in the years to come." The commissioner concluded his message with prayers for the state's prosperity and best wishes for both the government and people of Kano.
Political Context and Broader Implications
This resignation occurs against a backdrop of significant political realignment in Kano State. Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf recently resigned from the NNPP on January 23, 2026, citing internal party crises and legal challenges. The governor, once considered a protégé of Mustapha's father, is reportedly preparing to join the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso has publicly criticized Governor Yusuf's move to the APC, characterizing it as a betrayal. However, the governor has defended his decision as necessary to align Kano State with the federal government led by President Bola Tinubu, rather than being driven by personal ambition.
Pattern of Resignations in Kano State Government
Mustapha Kwankwaso's resignation follows that of another commissioner, Yusuf Kofarmata, who previously stepped down from his position as Commissioner of Science, Technology and Innovation. Kofarmata cited concerns about the direction of the state government as his reason for leaving.
These successive resignations highlight the ongoing political tensions within Kano's administration and suggest potential challenges in governance continuity. The developments raise questions about stability within the state's executive council as political allegiances shift.
The situation in Kano continues to evolve, with implications for both state governance and broader political dynamics in Nigeria's northwestern region. As political figures realign and relationships transform, the impact on policy implementation and development initiatives remains to be seen.
