By Omeiza Ajayi
ABUJA — Kano’s political scene witnessed a significant shift on Sunday as Engr. Umar Abdullahi Umar, son of former governor and ex-APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, formally received over 500 defectors from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), many of whom were long-time supporters of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, into the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The reception, which took place at the Armani Event Centre in Kano, coincided with the completion of the first phase of Umar’s expansive empowerment programme aimed at strengthening the APC’s grassroots influence across all 44 local government areas in the state.
In his address to the new members, Umar welcomed them warmly and assured full integration into the party. Describing their defection as a “courageous decision to join the strongest political party in Africa,” he emphasized that the APC is an inclusive platform for Nigerians seeking political stability.
“We will treat you as bona fide members without any discrimination,” Umar said, praising their resolve “to see the truth and join the APC.”
The event also highlighted Umar’s ongoing empowerment drive, which has already reached over 3,000 youths across Kano. As Executive Director of Technical Services at the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Umar personally oversaw the distribution of items designed to boost agricultural productivity and foster economic self-reliance among party supporters.
Among the tools provided were tricycles, mini-trucks, fertilizers, herbicides, improved seedlings, irrigation pumps, agro-processing machines, and solar-powered devices. Umar described these items as crucial for revitalizing local farming and improving the livelihoods of residents.
“Today is just the beginning,” he told attendees. “Plans for the next phase are already underway. Any APC member who didn’t receive support today should not lose hope—your turn will come.”
Umar’s initiatives span beyond his Tofa/Dawakin-Tofa and Rimingado Federal Constituency, reflecting a state-wide commitment to empowering youths and women. He also credited key APC figures—including his father, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Dr. Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, Murtala Sule Garo, Abba Bichi, and Mariya Bunkure—for inspiring his dedication to public service.
Beneficiaries of the programme expressed their gratitude. Farmer Aminu Ahmad said the free fertilizer would significantly boost agricultural productivity, which had been challenged by rising input costs. Another recipient of a solar-powered irrigation pump described it as the first such support his community had ever received, adding, “We thank Abba Ganduje, and we will repay good with good.”
The event underscored a dual approach by Umar—strengthening the APC’s political base while actively supporting economic empowerment for Kano’s grassroots population. Political analysts say such strategies could reshape Kano’s political alliances ahead of upcoming elections.