Reclaiming Kano’s Glory: Why the State Must Return to Shekarau’s Vision- A. A. Sule
By Hon. A. A. Sule (Lokon Makera)
The story of Kano’s political journey since the return to democracy in 1999 is inextricably linked to the leadership of three key figures: Malam Ibrahim Shekarau, Engineer Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.
Each left distinct marks, yet when critically analysed through the lens of people-centred governance and sustainable development, Malam Ibrahim Shekarau’s era stands out as the most visionary and transformative.
Unlike administrations that focused solely on infrastructure, Shekarau believed that true development must start with the people. His governance was a rare blend of social welfare, moral rejuvenation, and institutional strengthening — a model sadly eroded by the confrontational politics and personality cults that followed.
One of Shekarau’s most enduring achievements was tackling Kano’s age-old water scarcity. Through the construction of the Challawa and Tamburawa Water Treatment Plants, thousands of households gained access to clean, potable water. This single intervention improved health outcomes and reduced the suffering of countless families.
Beyond physical infrastructure, Shekarau invested heavily in the building of institutions that strengthened the social fabric. The establishment of the Kano State Hisbah Board, the Sharia Commission, and the Zakkat and Hubsi Commission exemplified his commitment to a morally upright and socially just society. These bodies were not mere political tokens; they functioned effectively to uplift the downtrodden and maintain order without coercion.
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In education, Shekarau made giant strides by constructing over 200 new schools across rural and urban Kano. He addressed the educational needs of marginalised communities, recruited and trained teachers, and provided free learning materials. His investments laid a strong foundation for literacy and empowerment among the next generation.
Healthcare also received unprecedented attention. His administration revitalized hospitals and rural clinics, stocked essential drugs, and expanded healthcare services to previously neglected areas. Programs targeting maternal and child health significantly reduced mortality rates and improved public health indicators.
Perhaps no group benefited more from Shekarau’s governance than civil servants. At a time when many states delayed salaries and pensions, Shekarau reinstated the Ramadan Bonus, provided Ram allowances, and ensured the prompt settlement of pensions and gratuities. His commitment to workers’ welfare restored dignity to the civil service and enhanced productivity.
In contrast, Kwankwaso’s two terms were characterised by aggressive infrastructural projects but often at the cost of social stability. His administration prioritized flyovers and housing estates, yet it also displaced communities and entrenched political divisions. His confrontational style fostered a political culture based more on loyalty to personalities than on service to the people.
Ganduje’s administration tried to consolidate development but soon became marred by allegations of corruption and a decline in public trust. The dismemberment of the Kano Emirate under his watch symbolized the collapse of respect for traditional institutions, a foundation Shekarau had carefully nurtured.
The political culture unleashed during Kwankwaso’s era — one of deep-seated division and personality cultism — continues to haunt Kano today. Rather than building strong, inclusive institutions, successive leaders have often preferred structures of personal loyalty that weaken democracy and governance.
As Kano confronts its future, it must revisit the values and strategies of Malam Ibrahim Shekarau’s leadership. Development must once again be people-centered, morally grounded, and institutionally resilient. Infrastructure is important, but without human dignity, moral uprightness, and strong institutions, no society can truly progress.
Kano’s glory lies not just in bridges and buildings, but in healthy citizens, educated youth, efficient governance, and a socially just society. To reclaim its rightful place as a beacon of progress, Kano must return to the vision laid down by Malam Ibrahim Shekarau — a vision of governance for the people, not for power.
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