By Jabiru Hassan, Kano
Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has honored 35 distinguished indigenes for their outstanding contributions across various fields, recognizing their impact on national development.
The event, described as “a night of pride, inspiration, and recognition,” was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.
According to the statement, the prestigious ceremony brought together dignitaries from diverse sectors, including the military, academia, public service, engineering, and business. While non-political in nature, the event underscored Kano’s immense talent and its continued influence in shaping national progress.
Among the honorees were recently promoted generals in the Nigerian military, senior police and paramilitary officers, and Federal Permanent Secretaries of Kano origin, whose leadership and dedication have significantly impacted national security and governance.
Notable awardees included:
– Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar – Chief of Air Staff
– Prof. Shehu Ahmad Said Galadanci, CON – Murshid of the National Mosque and renowned academic
– Dr. Nasiru Sani Gwarzo – Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education, and esteemed medical professional
– Major General M.S. Ahmed – Senior military officer
– Major General Sani Sumaila Ibrahim** – Senior military officer
– Air Vice Marshal M. Yusuf – Senior Air Force officer
In the academic and professional sectors, honorees included:
– Prof. Umma Abdullahi – First female Professor of Mechanical Engineering from Kano
– Dr. Hadiza Galadanci – Renowned Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology
– Prof. Nazifi Abdullahi Darma – Distinguished academic at the ECOWAS Commission
Also recognized were:
– CP Hajiya Hauwa Ibrahim – One of Nigeria’s highest-ranking female police officers and the first indigenous female Commissioner of Police from the Northwest
– Eng. Mustapha Balarabe Shehu – President of the World Engineering Forum and a highly respected engineer
Governor Yusuf emphasized that the ceremony was more than just an awards night—it was a celebration of Kano’s enduring legacy of excellence.
“These distinguished sons and daughters of Kano have brought immense pride to our state. Their commitment to excellence is a beacon of hope for our youth, who must strive to follow in their footsteps. It is our responsibility to honor them and ensure their contributions are never forgotten,” the Governor stated.
The gathering was attended by traditional rulers, religious leaders, and business magnates, fostering an atmosphere of mentorship and collaboration aimed at furthering Kano’s development.
The night concluded with a formal dinner and cultural performances, showcasing Kano’s rich heritage and unity.
In his welcome address, Hon. Muhammad Yusuf Jamu, Chairman of the Organizing Committee and Special Adviser to the Governor on National and International Relations, announced that the award ceremony would be institutionalized as an annual event to promote unity, sustainable development, and economic prosperity.
