KANO – Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has made it clear that he played no role in influencing his nomination for Vanguard Newspaper’s 2024 Governor of the Year Award, emphasizing that his recognition was solely based on merit.
Speaking at the Kano State Government House, where he received a delegation from Vanguard Media Limited, Governor Yusuf expressed his surprise at the honor, stating that he never realized he was being closely observed.
“This award came as a surprise to me because I have never met any of the management staff of Vanguard Newspaper before. It just goes to show that good deeds never go unnoticed. I had no idea people were watching my work, but this has reinforced my belief that hard work and dedication always speak for themselves,” he said.
The Vanguard delegation, led by General Editor Jide Ajani, included Sunday Editor Wale Akinola and Deputy Regional Editor Dapo Akinrefon. According to Ajani, the nomination process was rigorous, with multiple levels of scrutiny before the final selection was made.
Governor Yusuf, while expressing gratitude for the recognition, highlighted the importance of the Good Governance Award in fostering unity across Nigeria.
He noted, “Vanguard Newspaper is not from Kano or Northern Nigeria, yet they have chosen to honor me. This is the kind of national unity we need—where merit is recognized beyond ethnic or regional lines. I urge all Nigerians to embrace understanding and cooperation, as that is the only way we can build a peaceful and prosperous nation.”
Vanguard Newspaper cited Governor Yusuf’s impact in health and education as key factors in his nomination. The award will officially be presented at a later date.
