Is Mustapha Kwankwaso’s in road to politics a threat to….?
By Muhammad Auwal
Mustapha Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the eldest son of former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has been making waves in the political scene since his appointment as Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development on April 18, 2024.
His appointment is a testament to the growing trend of children of top politicians stepping into roles of governance, a phenomenon observed across various political landscapes.
(L-R) Abba Kabir Yusuf and Mustapha Kwankwaso
Such as the children of former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, Late Olusola Saraki, Former Senate President, David Mark and former Delta State Governor, James Ibori among others.
Observations have shown that most of these political godfathers decide to inroad their children on the fact that they have severally been betrayed.
Hence the need to introduce their children to take over the mantle of leadership believing that their offspring will not betray them.
The appointment has raised questions about nepotism and political dynasty-building, with many speculating that Kwankwaso is paving the way for his son to become Kano state governor in the near future.
Critics argue that this move perpetuates a culture of political dynasty-building, where political power is concentrated within families rather than being democratically distributed.
Their claim undermines the principles of democracy and prevents fresh perspectives and new leadership from emerging.
Supporters of Kwankwaso, however, argue that his son’s appointment is based on merit and that Mustapha has the necessary qualifications and experience to excel in the new role.
They point to his background in sports management and his passion for youth development as evidence of his suitability for the position.
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Despite these arguments, the appointment has sparked concerns about the concentration of political power in the hands of a few families.
However, after his swearing-in, Kwankwaso hit the ground running, visiting key sporting facilities in Kano, including Sani Abacha Stadium, Mahaha Sports Complex, Sabon Gari Stadium, and Ado Bayero Square.
He inspected the facilities and promised to enhance sports activities in the state, aligning with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s directive.
Kwankwaso has also been engaging with stakeholders, including fruitful discussion and engagement with Captain Ahmad Musa, former Kano Pillars player and Captain of the Sper Eagles of Nigeria to strategize on reviving Kano Pillars’ legacy.
(L-R) Ahmed Musa and Mustapha Kwankwaso
He visited the Kano Pillars football team at their camp, providing support and motivation before their match against Gombe United.
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The commissioner has also hosted various groups, including the management of Kano Sports Commission, the Supporters Club of Kano Pillars Football Club, and the Center for Awareness on Justice and Accountability (CAJA), to foster collaboration and progress in the community.
On April 23, 2024, Kwankwaso represented Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf at the swearing-in ceremony of the 2024 Batch A stream II Corp Members at the NYSC permanent orientation camp, Karaye.
This marked a significant outing in his move to step into his father’s shoes.
Kwankwaso has also received the Caretaker Chairmen from the 44 LGAs in his office, where he unveiled plans for the inaugural inter-local government sports competition, “Abba Gida Gida Kano to Europe 1st Edition,” which aims to celebrate Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s first year in office.
The competition will identify a team of 25 players to represent Kano State in the upcoming International Youth Championship 2024 in Denmark, Sweden, and Norway.
The commissioner’s efforts have not gone unnoticed, as he hosted Kano State House of Assembly Committee on Youth and Sport, on a congratulatory visit.
The members led by Hon. Kabiru Sule Dahiru, representing Tarauni constituency, assured their total support to the commissioner.
Mustapha Kwankwaso’s appointment as Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development has sparked speculation about his future political ambitions.
With his dynamic approach and commitment to youth and sports development, many believe he is preparing for bigger elective positions in the future.
(L-R) Abba Kabir Yusuf and Mustapha Kwankwaso
As the son of a former governor, Kwankwaso’s political pedigree is undeniable.
However, his actions and initiatives as commissioner have shown that he is more than just a name; he is a leader with a vision for youth and sports development in Kano State.
Mustapha Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso was born in Kano, on March 24, 1984.
He had his nursery, primary, and secondary education in Kano
In pursuit of higher education, Mustapha attended the Eastern Mediterranean University in Cyprus from 2003 to 2008, where he majored in Business Administration.
After completing his studies, he delved into the corporate world, working as a business development expert at the Abuja Investment Company in the Federal Capital Territory and later at Skyline University in Sharjah, UAE.
Mustapha transitioned into the realm of farming and he founded a successful rice company.
As the political landscape in Nigeria continues to evolve, Mustapha Kwankwaso is undoubtedly a rising star to watch, leveraging on the political goodwill of the father’s name among followers of the Kwankwasiyya movement
Only time will tell if Mustapha Kwankwaso will follow in his father’s footsteps and pursue higher political office.
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